If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and satisfying pasta dish, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the perfect recipe. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home kitchen.
Not only is it incredibly delicious and filling, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete and comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy Flavor: The Parmesan-infused cream sauce coats every bite, making it irresistibly smooth and savory.
- Perfectly Balanced Ingredients: The freshness of asparagus and mushrooms adds a delightful contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Quick and Easy to Make: A wholesome meal that looks and tastes impressive but requires minimal effort.
- Customizable: You can swap the asparagus for spinach, add sun-dried tomatoes, or use a different type of pasta.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and the asparagus is slightly crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Slowly add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well coated with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful and creamy pasta dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to enhance your meal:
- Serve with warm garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for a satisfying crunch.
- Pair with a light side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for an elevated dining experience.
Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is more than just a simple pasta dish—it’s a comfort food masterpiece. With its rich, velvety sauce, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables, it delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones! Let me know how it turns out in the comments below.