Oh my goodness, if you’re a pasta lover like I am, you are in for a real treat today! I’m beyond excited to share my version of Pasta Da Vinci, inspired by one of my all-time favorite dishes from The Cheesecake Factory. This creamy, dreamy pasta with luscious chicken, mushrooms, and a splash of white wine is pure comfort in a bowl. I first tried it during a special dinner out with friends, and I still remember that first heavenly bite—I’m telling you, it was love at first taste! Now, I whip this up for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or whenever I crave a little indulgent deliciousness at home. Let’s dive in!
What’s more special about this dish is how versatile it is. You can easily tweak it to fit your taste, either by adding veggies or even swapping proteins. Trust me, once you get a taste of this creamy goodness, it will become a staple in your home, just like it has in mine!
What’s in Pasta Da Vinci?
Penne Pasta: This delightful shape is perfect for clinging to the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is satisfying. You can use gluten-free pasta if you’re looking for alternatives!
Chicken Breast: My go-to for protein! I dice it up into bite-sized pieces that get perfectly cooked and juicy in this dish.
Mushrooms: Oh, those lovely fungi add an earthy flavor! I usually go for cremini or button mushrooms, but feel free to mix it up!
Shallots or Onion: I love shallots for their mild sweetness, but let’s be real—onions work beautifully too!
Garlic: Can you really have too much garlic? I think not! It infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens, bringing that dreamy creamy texture we all crave in pasta. Just a little goes a long way!
White Wine: It adds a depth of flavor and balances the richness of the cream. I recommend using a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Chicken Broth: A splash of this liquid gold adds to the entire dish’s flavor profile. I usually stick with low-sodium options for a health boost.
Dijon Mustard: It gives a subtle zing that enhances the overall taste, trust me!
Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to elevate your dish!
Fresh Parsley: Not only great for garnish but also adds a fresh taste!
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing chicken and veggies, it adds a rich flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the wonderful flavors.
Parmesan Cheese: Totally optional but a sprinkle on top can’t hurt—that nutty flavor fits right in!
Is Pasta Da Vinci Good for You?
Now let’s chat about the health benefits. This dish, while indulgent, has a nice balance of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Chicken Breast: A fantastic source of lean protein, it’s perfect for muscle maintenance and can keep you feeling full longer.
Mushrooms: These little guys are packed with nutrients, low in calories, and high in antioxidants—definitely a win for your health!
Heavy Cream: While rich, it does provide a smooth mouthfeel and can make a dish seem more satisfying, but moderation is key. You could also substitute it with lighter options if you prefer.
That said, due to the creamy nature of this dish, it’s best enjoyed in moderation—and sharing is caring! 😉
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup shallots or onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Pasta Da Vinci?
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, toss in the shallots (or onion) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and any liquid evaporates, about 5 minutes.
4. Carefully pour in the white wine, and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it. Allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Italian seasoning. Bring that creamy concoction to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes.
6. Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet and mix until everything is well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a tad more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Toss in the cooked penne pasta, mixing well to ensure it’s coated in the luscious sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as you prefer.
8. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley, and if you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your Pasta Da Vinci!
A Splash of Creativity!
Let’s talk a little creativity! Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even bell peppers to amplify the flavors. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or even go vegetarian by using plant-based proteins.
And don’t forget, this dish is just as good reheated as it is fresh, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep!
So, my friend, I hope you try this Pasta Da Vinci recipe and fall in love like I did. It’s a warm hug in a bowl! If you whip it up, please come back and share your thoughts; I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking! 🥳
