If you’re craving a dish that wraps you in comfort while still feeling fresh and vibrant, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is exactly what you need. It beautifully combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus with a luscious, velvety cream sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of penne pasta. The marriage of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to meals to impress both family and friends!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the fresh, straightforward ingredients. Each component plays a key role—from the juicy chicken providing hearty protein, to the mushrooms and asparagus adding delightful earthiness and crunch, with the cream and Parmesan bringing that silky richness that makes this pasta truly irresistible.
- Olive oil: Essential for sautéing to add a subtle fruitiness and help cook the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and even flavor absorption.
- Salt and pepper: The simplest seasoning that balances and elevates every element in the dish.
- Mushrooms: Sliced white or cremini mushrooms bring an earthy, umami depth.
- Asparagus: Cut into 1-inch pieces to add a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast and a pop of green color.
- Garlic: Minced fresh garlic infuses the whole dish with its irresistible aroma.
- Chicken broth: Adds a flavorful base that deepens the sauce without overpowering it.
- Heavy cream: Creates that luxuriously creamy texture essential for coating the pasta perfectly.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh for a nutty, salty punch that finishes the sauce with flair.
- Penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the sauce and mix well with chicken and veggies.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top as a bright, fresh garnish that ties it all together.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling your penne pasta in salted water, following the package instructions until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This ensures the pasta holds up beautifully under the creamy sauce without turning mushy later. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your bite-sized chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until each piece is nicely browned and cooked through. This caramelization adds an amazing depth to the dish. Remove the chicken and set it aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces, then sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and soften, and the asparagus becomes tender but still crisp—this contrast is vital. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any delicious browned bits stuck to the pan—that’s where much of the flavor lives. Let the broth reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together so that every piece of pasta and chicken is luxuriously coated in that creamy goodness. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed to perfectly balance the flavors.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the dish right before serving to add a lively color and fresh herbal note. Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy for the best experience.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh parsley is a no-brainer—it adds brightness and a pop of color—but for an extra touch, you might consider a light drizzle of truffle oil or a handful of toasted pine nuts. These enhance the earthiness of the mushrooms and add a gourmet touch that keeps everyone asking for seconds.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and satisfying enough to be a standalone meal, but if you want to round it out, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterpoint. Warm, crusty garlic bread also pairs beautifully, perfect for mopping up any delicious leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving the creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne in individual shallow bowls, topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan curls and a small sprig of parsley. You can also place it in a warm casserole dish to let guests help themselves family-style. Presentation is simple yet elegant, highlighting the inviting colors and textures of the dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezing
This pasta dish freezes best if you separate the sauce from the cooked pasta and chicken to maintain texture. Store everything in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible to retain the creamy texture, but it works in a pinch—just make sure to stir well.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect because its shape traps the sauce, other pasta types like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle would also work beautifully in this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version and use a vegan Parmesan alternative to keep the creamy indulgence without dairy.
Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
Fresh asparagus is ideal for its texture and flavor, but if frozen is what you have, just thaw and drain it well before sautéing to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken pieces should turn opaque all the way through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Browning on the outside also signals they’re cooked and flavorful.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a busy weeknight?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead, prepare the sauce, and reheat everything while boiling fresh pasta for the final assembly—this saves time without sacrificing that homemade taste.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is one of those ultimate comfort foods that feels both cozy and special. It’s approachable enough for any home cook yet impressive enough to share with guests. Give it a try, and watch how swiftly it becomes a beloved staple in your dinner rotation, bringing smiles and satisfied sighs in every bite.
Print
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a delicious and comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms and asparagus, all coated in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines fresh vegetables and protein with al dente penne pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Liquids
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to be combined later.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and the asparagus becomes tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Then reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking and stirring occasionally for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together well, ensuring the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Garnish the creamy chicken and pasta dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh mushrooms and asparagus for the best texture and flavor; you can substitute with other vegetables if desired.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds up best when combined with the sauce.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by cooking the chicken and vegetables first, then combining with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
