If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, comforting, and bursting with fresh spring flavors, the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is here to steal the spotlight. This recipe brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a luxurious creamy sauce that clings perfectly to every penne noodle. It’s the kind of meal that feels special enough for guests but simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become one of your go-to pasta dishes for good.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s adding depth, freshness, or creaminess. You’ll find that these essentials combine effortlessly to create a dish that’s both flavorsome and balanced.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): The perfect base to sauté chicken and veggies, bringing out their natural richness.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb): Tender and juicy protein that soaks up all those lovely flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient without overpowering.
- Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Earthy and meaty, they add depth and texture to the sauce.
- Asparagus (1 cup, cut into 1-inch pieces): Adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant green color to the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a warm, aromatic backdrop that ties everything together.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Builds a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that irresistibly smooth and luscious sauce that coats the pasta.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a salty, nutty punch that rounds off the creamy goodness.
- Penne pasta (1 lb): The ideal pasta shape to catch and hold every bit of sauce.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): A bright, herbaceous finish for both flavor and color.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. This slight firmness ensures your pasta holds up beautifully under the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, then toss them into the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it has a golden-brown crust and is cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest while you sauté the veggies.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Asparagus
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces, cooking for roughly 4 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the asparagus becomes tender yet crisp. Add the minced garlic and stir it in for another minute or two, allowing its fragrant aroma to blossom.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, gently bringing it to a simmer while scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring occasionally as the sauce thickens into that silky consistency that makes this dish truly decadent.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together so the creamy sauce evenly coats the chicken, asparagus, mushrooms, and noodles. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if you feel it needs a little boost.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish off your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This fresh herb doesn’t just add a pop of vibrant color, it also adds a mild, fresh flavor that lifts the entire dish perfectly. Serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley brightens every bite visually and flavor-wise, but you can also explore a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes for a subtle kick if you like. These small touches turn your meal from homey to extraordinary.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted cherry tomatoes. A crusty garlic bread also complements the creamy sauce superbly, soaking up every last drop. Keep your sides fresh yet understated to let the main dish shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, try plating the pasta in individual bowls and topping it with a sprig of parsley and a thin slice of lemon for a refined touch. Or scoop it into pretty ramekins, add a shower of Parmesan, and broil briefly for a golden crust. The Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is versatile enough to dress up or down depending on the occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect candidate for next-day lunches or quick dinners. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, so it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
If you want to freeze this dish, portion it out first into freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the cream sauce may change texture slightly after freezing, but stirring well during reheating helps bring it back to life. Stored properly, it should last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce seems too thick. Microwave works too, but stirring halfway through will ensure even warming. Avoid high heat as it can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the creamy sauce, farfalle, rigatoni, or even fusilli would work wonderfully too. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente to maintain texture after mixing with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. The texture might differ slightly, but you’ll still get a creamy, delicious dish.
Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Fresh asparagus is ideal for that crisp-tender bite, but frozen works in a pinch. Just thaw and drain well to avoid extra moisture in the sauce, and add it towards the end of sautéing to prevent overcooking.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cooking it over medium-high heat helps it brown quickly while locking in juices. Avoid overcrowding the skillet so the chicken doesn’t steam. Removing it once it’s just cooked through prevents drying out.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions that complement the existing flavors. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so vegetables stay vibrant and don’t get mushy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward enough for any home cook but delivers restaurant-quality flavors that impress every single time. Don’t hesitate—gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a cozy, delicious meal that will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
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Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces, sautéed mushrooms, and crisp asparagus enveloped in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Ideal for weeknight dinners, it combines simple ingredients into an indulgent yet easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 1 lb penne pasta
Liquids and Dairy
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use to prevent overcooking.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 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 remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are softened and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning.
- Create Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine and Toss: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and gently toss everything together to fully coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy mushroom and asparagus sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the dish immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the skillet before adding the chicken broth.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if you want to make this dish gluten-free.
- Make sure not to overcook the asparagus to keep it crisp and vibrant.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
