This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich and comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients.With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and satisfying bite, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The earthy mushrooms and vibrant asparagus bring a fresh balance to the rich cream sauce, while the Parmesan adds a delicious depth of flavor. Serve this alongside a crisp salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal.Why You’ll Love This RecipeEasy to Make – Simple steps for a gourmet-style pasta dish.Rich and Flavorful – Creamy sauce infused with garlic, Parmesan, and chicken broth.Perfectly Balanced – A great combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta.Versatile – Works as a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dish for guests.IngredientsFor the Pasta and Chicken:2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced8 ounces penne pasta1 tablespoon olive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFor the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Sauce:1 cup mushrooms, sliced1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces2 cloves garlic, minced1 cup heavy cream½ cup chicken broth½ cup grated Parmesan cheeseFresh parsley for garnish (optional)PreparationStep 1: Cook the PastaBring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.Drain the pasta, set aside, and reserve ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.Step 2: Cook the ChickenHeat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan.Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.Step 3: Sauté the VegetablesIn the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.Add the asparagus and minced garlic, then continue to sauté for another 3 minutes, until the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp.Step 4: Prepare the Creamy SauceReduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.Stir well to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.Add the grated Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen it.Step 5: Combine EverythingReturn the cooked chicken to the pan, along with the cooked penne pasta.Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well-coated in the creamy sauce.Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.Step 6: Garnish and ServeRemove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken PenneUse Fresh Ingredients – Fresh asparagus and mushrooms add the best texture and flavor.Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water or more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.Choose the Right Pasta – Penne works well because it holds onto the creamy sauce, but you can also use fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle.Add More Flavor – Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.Make it Lighter – Substitute half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.VariationsAdd More Vegetables – Try adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.Make it Spicy – Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.Swap the Protein – Instead of chicken, use shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a different variation.Use a Different Cheese – Swap Parmesan for Asiago, Gouda, or Pecorino Romano for a unique twist.Serving SuggestionsPair this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne with:Garlic Bread – A crispy, buttery side to soak up the sauce.Fresh Green Salad – A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for an extra serving of veggies.Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I make this dish ahead of time?Yes! Cook everything as directed, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.Can I freeze creamy chicken penne?It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely, store in an airtight container, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the sauce?Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream, broth, or milk to bring back the creamy consistency. Stir gently until warmed through.ConclusionThis Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that brings together the perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving guests at a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress.Try it tonight and enjoy a delicious homemade pasta meal that’s both comforting and flavorful!Enjoy !
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
