If you are looking for a comforting and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta, this dish offers a balanced harmony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Every bite is packed with richness and freshness, making it an ideal go-to dinner to impress family and friends or simply treat yourself to something special at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this irresistible pasta dish. Each item is straightforward yet essential, contributing unique flavors, textures, and color to bring the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe to life.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing the chicken and veggies.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the umami flavor for well-rounded seasoning.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that elevate every ingredient.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Brings earthy richness and meaty texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant green color.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent base of the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, cheesy finish.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. This ensures you get that slight firmness that gives the dish a nice bite and allows the sauce to cling beautifully. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready for the final toss.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it warms up, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adding these simple spices makes a big difference in boosting flavor. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook until it turns a gorgeous golden brown and is cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, use the flavorful oil left behind to sauté the mushrooms and asparagus. This step allows the veggies to soak up the chicken’s essence while they soften and caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural flavors. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until the asparagus is tender but still vibrant and the mushrooms are nicely browned.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to medium-low and carefully stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slowly, thickening the sauce into a heavenly, silky coating perfect for draping over the pasta and chicken. Keep stirring gently to marry the flavors and create that classic creamy consistency we all love.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce to reunite all the delicious elements. Then, add the drained penne pasta and mix everything thoroughly until every piece of pasta is luxuriously coated with creamy sauce and studded with tender chicken and vibrant veggies.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your dish a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as necessary to perfectly balance all the flavors. Serve the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe immediately, letting the warmth and aroma invite everyone to the table.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a pop of bright green and fresh herbal notes. A light dusting of extra Parmesan or a few twists of cracked black pepper also add visual appeal and flavor bursts.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of sauce, making the meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls to highlight the colorful asparagus and mushrooms nestled within. You might also drizzle a little extra olive oil or sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for a delightful crunch and richness that complements the dish beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, no worries — this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe stores very well. Transfer any uneaten portions to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
To enjoy this recipe later, freeze leftover portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be sure to cool the pasta thoroughly before freezing, and consider undercooking the pasta slightly when first making it to prevent it from becoming mushy after reheating.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream added to loosen the sauce and revive its creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly without drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for trapping the sauce, you can swap in farfalle, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the sauce?
Heavy cream gives the sauce its luscious and thick texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream for a lighter version. Keep in mind the sauce may be thinner if you reduce the fat content.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add more mushrooms, asparagus, or your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. For extra protein, toss in cooked beans or tofu cubes.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cut your chicken into evenly sized bite-sized pieces and avoid overcooking it. Cooking over medium-high heat until just cooked through keeps it juicy and tender inside.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce becomes too thick, gently stir in a little more cream, milk, or pasta cooking water until it reaches your desired consistency. This also helps the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a creamy pasta dish enriched with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, and this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe hits all those notes with style. It’s a recipe that invites both simplicity and elegance to your dinner table, perfect for weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your own rotation of favorite meals!
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Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms and asparagus, all tossed in a rich and cheesy Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, preparing the pan for cooking the chicken.
- Cook Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces. Sauté them for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
- Make Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a creamy base.
- Toss Together: Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss it with the creamy sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix thoroughly to coat everything evenly and heat through.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for a richer sauce flavor.
- Do not overcook the asparagus; it should remain slightly crisp.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
