Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne – A Rich and Satisfying Pasta Dish

Pasta lovers, get ready for a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with delicious ingredients! This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the perfect combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a special occasion meal, or a comforting homemade dish, this pasta recipe will surely impress.

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of creamy pasta to bring comfort and joy to the dinner table. This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne takes classic pasta to the next level by combining succulent chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. The savory mushrooms and crisp-tender asparagus add depth to the dish, while the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully.

This dish is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s high in protein, rich in flavor, and completely customizable—swap the protein, change the veggies, or add a little heat for a unique twist. Let’s dive into this creamy, dreamy pasta recipe!

Ingredients

To prepare this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, you’ll need the following:

Essential Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
8 oz penne pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Asparagus

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the asparagus pieces and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop. Then, lower the heat and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.

5. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix it into the creamy sauce. Add the drained pasta and gently toss everything together until well coated in the rich, flavorful sauce.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne warm, and enjoy every bite of this indulgent and satisfying pasta dish!

Helpful Tips

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the sauce.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and asparagus enhance the flavor and texture.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of extra chicken broth.
Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Add More Cheese: Parmesan lovers can sprinkle extra cheese on top before serving.

Cooking Tips

Take your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne to the next level with these pro tips:

Extra Creaminess: Stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end for a richer sauce.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Use Different Pasta: Swap penne for fettuccine, rigatoni, or linguine for a different experience.
Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside:

Garlic bread for a classic Italian meal
A fresh green salad for a balanced dish
Roasted vegetables for an extra dose of nutrition
A glass of white wine to enhance the flavors

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 540
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 420mg
Vitamin A: 15%
Calcium: 20%
Iron: 10%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different protein?
Yes! This dish works well with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for more variety.

Can I make it dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute coconut milk for heavy cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make it completely gluten-free.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, loaded with protein and veggies, and perfect for a cozy night in. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prep, this pasta dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy every creamy, cheesy, and savory bite! 🍽️