If you are searching for a comforting and elegant dinner that combines the fresh flavors of spring vegetables with a rich, indulgent sauce, the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is absolutely your go-to. This dish perfectly balances tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce that’s both satisfying and delightfully simple to make. It’s an irresistible weeknight crowd-pleaser that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, all of which come together to create layers of texture, flavor, and color. Each item plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken adding protein richness to the fresh asparagus bringing that wonderful pop of green and crunch. Let’s look at what you’ll gather to bring this dish to life:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: This is your lean protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape to catch that creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds an earthy, umami-rich foundation that deepens the dish’s flavor.
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces: Brings a fresh, slightly crisp texture and a lovely vibrant color.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and complexity.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce decadently creamy and indulgent.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory depth while keeping the sauce balanced.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Contributes a pleasant saltiness and cheesy richness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, herbal finishing touch that brightens the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to amplify all the other flavors.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta according to package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente bite. Once cooked, make sure to drain it well and set it aside. This simple step ensures your pasta maintains its texture and is ready to marry perfectly with the creamy sauce later on.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced chicken. Cooking it for about 5 to 6 minutes until it’s golden and cooked through is crucial—it not only locks in juiciness but forms a nice crust that adds depth of flavor. After the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet to rest so you can focus on building the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Asparagus
In the same skillet, toss in the mushrooms and asparagus pieces. Sauté them together for 4 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their savory juices while the asparagus becomes tender but still retains a lovely bite. Using the same skillet means those flavors mingle perfectly, picking up all the tasty browned bits from the chicken.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until the aroma fills your kitchen. This quick step unlocks garlic’s essential flavor, adding warmth without overwhelming the fresh vegetable notes.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, giving everything a good stir. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and meld together. This is where the magic happens—the simple ingredients transform into a silky, luscious sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of pasta and chicken.
Step 6: Combine and Season
Stir in the Parmesan cheese along with the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta. This step brings it all together with that extra cheesy tang that lifts the flavors beautifully. Finally, taste and season with salt and pepper to suit your preference, making sure every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 7: Toss and Garnish
Give everything a thorough toss so all the components are evenly coated in that creamy, dreamy sauce. Finish by sprinkling on fresh parsley, which adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to each mouthful. Your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or even a light grating of extra Parmesan are perfect to sprinkle on top. They brighten the rich sauce and add a lovely visual appeal. A crack of freshly ground black pepper on top enhances the flavors without overpowering.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of this dish wonderfully. You might also want to serve it alongside garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable medley to round out the meal without competing with those main flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a little twist, try serving the dish in individual shallow bowls, garnished with edible flowers or extra Parmesan tuile for an elegant dinner party touch. Alternatively, turning leftovers into a baked pasta casserole with a golden cheese crust the next day is an incredibly delicious idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop beautifully over time, making your next meal just as enjoyable.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Store portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of the asparagus may soften slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. Stir often to ensure even heating and to keep that creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully due to its shape, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute to keep it creamy and flavorful.
How do I prevent the asparagus from overcooking?
Cut your asparagus into uniform 2-inch pieces and sauté them just until tender-crisp, usually 4 to 5 minutes. This keeps them bright, fresh, and slightly crunchy.
Can I prepare this recipe for meal prep?
Definitely! It keeps well for a few days and tastes great reheated. Just store in portion-sized containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
What can I substitute if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth, water with a pinch of salt, or even white wine to add a bit of acidity and depth, depending on your preference.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about diving into a warm bowl of this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe. Its creamy sauce, fresh seasonal veggies, and tender chicken come together effortlessly, making it a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s a joy to cook, share, and savor—so go ahead and give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is a flavorful and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh asparagus in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein & Pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Vegetables
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Herbs & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the asparagus becomes tender but still crisp.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not burnt, enhancing the flavor of the vegetables.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the cooked chicken and drained pasta. Mix everything thoroughly so the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- You can use gluten-free penne to make the dish gluten-free if desired.
- Make sure not to overcook the asparagus to keep it crisp and vibrant.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated varieties.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
