Description

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort dish, combining tender, juicy chicken with the earthy richness of mushrooms, the crisp freshness of asparagus, and a luxuriously creamy sauce. Tossed with penne pasta, it’s a one-pan masterpiece that’s both hearty and elegant, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The balance of flavors and textures in this recipe creates a dish that is both satisfying and sophisticated. Plus, it’s easy to make, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• For the Pasta and Chicken:
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Optional Garnishes:
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Freshly cracked black pepper

Preparation Method

Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and the butter. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–6 minutes, letting them release their moisture and turn golden. Next, add the asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes, just until tender-crisp.

Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan and enhance the flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if desired, for a touch of spice. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine and Toss:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the creamy chicken penne to serving plates or a large dish. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for a finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy this indulgent, flavor-packed meal.

Tips and Conclusion

Want to elevate the dish further? Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor. For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and add more mushrooms or even roasted cherry tomatoes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to refresh the sauce.

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, satisfying hug in a bowl. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and a velvety sauce tossed with al dente pasta creates an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Craving more? Check out our other pasta recipes, from classic Alfredo to zesty tomato-based dishes, and discover a world of culinary inspiration. Share this recipe with friends, and let us know how you made it your own!