Description

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of this Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne—a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luxuriously creamy sauce. This hearty pasta dish is ideal for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for a cozy dinner party. With the earthiness of mushrooms, the vibrant crunch of asparagus, and the creamy Parmesan sauce, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• Pasta & Protein:8 oz penne pasta2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
• Vegetables & Aromatics:1 cup asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces1 cup mushrooms, sliced2 cloves garlic, minced
• Sauce:1 cup heavy cream½ cup chicken broth½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated1 tbsp butter1 tbsp olive oilSalt & pepper, to taste
• Optional Garnish:Extra grated Parmesan cheeseFresh parsley, choppedRed pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Preparation Method

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ¼ cup of the pasta water for later use if needed.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and golden. Stir in the asparagus and minced garlic, sautéing for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the asparagus is tender but retains a slight crunch.

Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream, stirring until fully combined. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Return the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a delightful contrast.

Tips and Conclusion

To save time, cook the pasta while preparing the chicken and vegetables. For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken beforehand with a splash of lemon juice and Italian herbs. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or use whole-wheat penne for extra fiber.

This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a comforting, flavor-packed meal that brings together the richness of cream, the umami of mushrooms, and the freshness of asparagus. Quick to make and immensely satisfying, it’s the perfect choice for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to an impressive meal for guests. Explore more recipes on our site for additional inspiration, and don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us. Happy cooking!