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Homemade Creamy Mushroom Chicken Cavatappi recipe photo

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Cavatappi

This Creamy Mushroom Chicken Cavatappi is SO EASY! Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce tossed with perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 oz cavatappi pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander

Method
 

Cooking Guide
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of cavatappi pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bite-sized chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, until they release moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Add back cooked chicken and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until cheese melts and sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Add cooked cavatappi to skillet, tossing to coat every spiral with the creamy mushroom chicken sauce. If sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  • Do not overcook chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Add cheese toward the end to prevent clumping and ensure smooth sauce.