If you’re like me, some evenings call for a comforting bowl of pasta that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Enter my Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne – a dish that’s not only rich and indulgent but also quick enough to whip up even on the busiest weeknights. With tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and earthy mushrooms, this recipe is a delightful blend that delivers restaurant-quality taste straight to your table. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to different dietary needs! Have a vegetarian in the family? No problem! Just swap the chicken for their favorite protein, and you’ve got a winning meal. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself to something special, this creamy pasta dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. What variations will you come up with?
What makes this dish a weeknight favorite?
Simplicity, this Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Flavor-packed, the combination of tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and savory mushrooms creates an incredible depth of taste. Versatility is key—whether you stick with classic penne or choose gluten-free pasta, the options are endless! Don’t forget, you can easily swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to everyone’s preferences. Crowd-pleasing and delicious, this dish shines whether served at a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Dive into this restaurant-quality meal at home, and experience the comfort it brings!
Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne pasta – Serves as the heart of the dish; you can easily switch it up with fettuccine or gluten-free options.
For the Chicken
• Chicken breast – This main protein ensures tenderness; always check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
For the Vegetables
• Asparagus – Adds a refreshing crunch; if unavailable, try substituting with green beans or broccoli for that vibrant touch.
• Mushrooms – Brings earthy flavor and texture; feel free to use your favorite variety, such as cremini or button, to suit your taste.
• Garlic – The aromatic base that enhances flavor; don’t skip this as it elevates the entire dish.
For the Sauce
• Heavy cream – Provides that luxurious creaminess; for a lighter option, half-and-half can work well too, though it may alter the thickness.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a deeply savory touch; you can swap this for Asiago or Pecorino Romano if you prefer something a little different.
• Broth (chicken or vegetable) – Infuses richness into the sauce; it’s essential for creating that comforting flavor.
This recipe for Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne combines the heartiness of pasta with fresh veggies and a rich, creamy sauce. Enjoy whipping this up for a delightful weeknight dinner!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook 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, usually around 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water for later use, then set it aside in a bowl.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Using the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant for about 30 seconds. Next, toss in sliced mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they’re soft and begin to caramelize. Add the asparagus pieces and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring they remain tender-crisp while all the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Make Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the vegetables, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the creamy sauce, creating that luxurious texture for your Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne.
Step 5: Combine
Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together gently, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne onto warm plates. For an added touch, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately for a delightful weeknight meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
What to Serve With Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful pairings that complement this comforting pasta dish!
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Garlic Bread: A classic choice, its buttery, garlicky flavor perfectly balances the creamy sauce, and it’s great for mopping up every last bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens tossed in a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the rich pasta, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini bring a colorful, savory addition that harmonizes beautifully with the meal.
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Wine Option: Pair with a glass of Chardonnay, which complements the creaminess and complements the flavors of the mushrooms and asparagus perfectly.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light, fluffy chocolate mousse rounds off the meal with its decadent sweetness, satisfying your sweet tooth without being overly heavy.
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Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with fresh herbs can serve as a delightful side dish, bringing a unique texture and flavor contrast to the comforting pasta.
Indulge in these pairings, and watch your Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne turn into a beloved family meal!
Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful variations!
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Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for your choice of tofu, chickpeas, or a hearty vegetable mix for a satisfying meatless option. You won’t miss the meat!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne or any gluten-free pasta shape as a perfect alternative, ensuring everyone can enjoy this comforting dish.
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Baked Version: Pour the combined pasta and sauce into a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until golden and bubbly for a cozy, cheesy twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or slices of jalapeño for a fiery touch, transforming the dish into a zesty delight.
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Extra Color: Toss in frozen peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed spinach for a beautiful splash of color and added nutrients.
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Creamy Light: For a lighter sauce, try using Greek yogurt or coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a healthy spin without sacrificing richness.
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Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different pasta shapes, such as fettuccine or farfalle, to keep the experience fresh and exciting with every meal.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving, adding a fragrant finish to your creamy pasta.
If you love creamy dishes, don’t miss out on trying my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta or the Chicken Enchilada Soup for more delicious ideas!
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the pasta and sauté the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their texture. Additionally, the vegetables can be chopped ahead of time, while the sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over low heat, add the cooked penne, and toss everything together until properly warmed. This way, you’ll enjoy a rich, comforting meal with minimal effort on busy evenings!
Expert Tips for Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
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Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Always check the pasta a minute or two before the package suggests. Al dente gives the best texture and holds sauce well in your Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne.
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Juicy Chicken: Sear the chicken on medium-high heat to create a nice golden crust without overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfect juiciness.
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Versatile Veggies: Feel free to mix in different vegetables based on seasonality or preference. Just remember to cut them uniformly for even cooking, ensuring a delightful bite with every forkful.
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Cream Control: When adding cream, lower the heat and stir continuously. This prevents the sauce from curdling and keeps it silky smooth.
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Thickened Sauce: If your sauce becomes too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help thin it out. This water is starchy and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta separate from the sauce if possible to maintain texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Consider freezing the sauce separately to preserve creaminess.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Enjoying Later: For the best taste experience, use fresh veggies and cook them just before serving to maintain their crunch and vibrant flavor in your Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne.
Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
You can use penne pasta, as it holds the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rotini, or even gluten-free options if that suits your dietary needs.
How do I properly store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, try to keep the pasta and sauce separate if possible. Just reheat gently and enjoy!
Can I freeze Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! For longer-term storage, you can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing the sauce separately to help preserve its creamy consistency.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens more than you’d like, simply add a splash of the reserved pasta water while stirring it back over low heat. This will help bring the sauce to the desired creaminess without compromising on flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re catering to different dietary preferences or restrictions, you can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a vegetarian version. Also, using gluten-free pasta can accommodate gluten sensitivities, and coconut cream is a delightful alternative for dairy-free options.
Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne for Quick Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, around 10-12 minutes. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove and let it rest before slicing.
- Lower the heat, add minced garlic, cooking until fragrant for about 30 seconds. Add sliced mushrooms, sauté for 4-5 minutes until soft. Add asparagus and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in grated Parmesan until melted.
- Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet with the drained penne. Toss together gently, adding reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Serve on warm plates and garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper. Enjoy your Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne!
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