If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh dinner, this creamy mushroom & asparagus chicken penne is your new go-to recipe. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus tossed in a luscious cream sauce over perfectly cooked penne is simply irresistible.
You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this dish in just 7 simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals. This chicken penne recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen without any fuss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce with fresh mushrooms and asparagus
- Quick 30-minute meal ideal for busy schedules
- Balanced protein and veggie components for a wholesome dish
- Simple ingredients you likely have or can easily find
- Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious creamy mushroom & asparagus chicken penne.
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
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Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
How to Make Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add the asparagus pieces and minced garlic to the mushrooms. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce coats the chicken and vegetables evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine. Cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld, then remove from heat.
Tips for the Best Results
- Make sure not to overcook the asparagus; it should remain slightly crisp for texture contrast.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce and best flavor.
- Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
- Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it an even tastier next-day meal.
To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving for best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne works well because it holds the sauce nicely, but you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle and still enjoy great results.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute and omit the Parmesan or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative to accommodate dairy-free diets.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken, vegetables, and pasta separately in advance and combine them with the sauce just before serving for a quick meal.
What wine pairs well with this creamy chicken penne?
A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce and fresh asparagus beautifully, balancing richness with acidity.