The Creamiest Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe Ever

Nestled in my kitchen, a creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne recipe promises comfort and flavor in every bite.

My recent culinary experiment blends earthy mushrooms with tender chicken and crisp asparagus.

Pasta lovers will appreciate this harmonious combination of textures and rich, smooth sauce.

Each ingredient plays a delightful role in creating a satisfying meal that feels both elegant and homey.

Hearty enough to impress dinner guests yet simple to prepare, this dish comes together with minimal fuss.

Fresh herbs and a touch of parmesan cheese elevate the entire experience, making each forkful memorable.

Trust you’ll fall in love with this delectable pasta creation that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Why Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne Is So Comforting

• Quick Weeknight Dinner Solution: Whip up this restaurant-quality meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a delicious and satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients to match your dietary preferences or what's in your fridge – vegetarians can replace chicken with tofu, and picky eaters can adjust seasoning levels to suit their taste.
• Restaurant-Worthy Flavor Explosion: Enjoy a professional-level dish that combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in one incredible pasta that'll impress everyone at the dinner table.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this streamlined recipe that uses a single skillet to create a complete meal, making it ideal for home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal dish washing.

What You Need To Make Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Penne Pasta: A classic pasta shape that holds creamy sauces well, perfect for catching all the delicious flavors.

• Chicken Pieces: Lean protein that adds substance and richness to the dish, best when boneless and skinless.

• Mushrooms, Asparagus: Fresh vegetables that provide earthy flavors and nutritional boost, choose firm and bright-colored produce.

• Butter, Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps with cooking, use unsalted butter for better flavor control.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides depth of flavor, fresh is always best.
• Chicken Broth: Liquid base that enhances overall taste, low-sodium options recommended.
• Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and smooth sauce texture, full-fat version gives best results.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty and nutty notes, freshly grated provides superior flavor.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing overall dish flavor, use freshly ground when possible.
• Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and color, sweet or smoked varieties work well.
• Italian Seasoning: Herb blend that provides complex herbal notes.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional ingredient for adding slight heat.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright herb that adds color and fresh finish to the dish.

How To Cook Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Grab a big pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in the penne pasta and cook until it’s perfectly tender. Before draining, scoop out a cup of pasta water – this liquid gold will come in handy later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Transform the Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika

Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet until it’s sizzling. Carefully place the seasoned chicken pieces in the pan. Let them dance and sizzle for 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and cook through completely. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.

Step 3: Wake Up the Vegetables

Using the same skillet (no need to wash!), melt some butter over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and let it become fragrant for just a moment. Add mushrooms and let them soften and release their delicious juices for 3-4 minutes. Slide in the asparagus and cook for another couple of minutes – you want them tender but still with a nice crunch.

Step 4: Create the Magical Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper

Let the sauce simmer and thicken for 2-3 minutes. If it looks too thick, splash in some of that reserved pasta water to loosen things up.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything around until every single piece is coated in the creamy, dreamy sauce. The magic is happening right before your eyes!

Step 6: Plate and Celebrate

Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top and add an extra shower of Parmesan cheese. Serve piping hot alongside some garlic bread or a crisp side salad. Time to dig in and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

Pro Tip: This dish is even more delicious the next day, so don’t worry about leftovers!

Helpful Tips For Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Pasta Perfection: Cook penne al dente to maintain a slight bite, ensuring it doesn't become mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Seasoning Success: Generously coat chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika for a flavor-packed and golden-brown exterior that adds depth to the dish.
• Vegetable Timing Technique: Saute mushrooms first until softened, then add asparagus for a brief 2-minute cook to preserve its crisp texture and vibrant green color.
• Sauce Consistency Secret: Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce's thickness, creating a silky, clingy coating that perfectly embraces the pasta and chicken.
• Herb and Spice Balance: Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for a bright, fresh finish that elevates the rich, creamy flavors of the dish.

How To Store Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne Right

• Refrigerate leftover creamy chicken penne in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the dish completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Seal the container tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
• When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore the sauce's creamy consistency.
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly.
• Avoid freezing this pasta dish, as the cream sauce may separate and lose its smooth texture when thawed.
• For best quality, consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Tasty Pairings With Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Elevate the creamy, earthy flavors of the mushroom and asparagus chicken penne with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, cutting through the richness and complementing the dish's delicate herbs.
• Serve Alongside Zesty Salad: Create a bright contrast by pairing the pasta with a tangy arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, adding freshness and acidity to balance the creamy sauce.
• Match with Crusty Garlic Bread: Enhance the meal's comfort factor with warm, toasted garlic bread that helps soak up the luxurious sauce and provides a perfect textural companion.
• Choose Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a non-alcoholic option, refresh your palate with sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon, which cleanses the taste buds between bites of the rich, creamy pasta.

Fun Twists On Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Vegetarian Veggie Fusion: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based protein cubes, seared golden and seasoned similarly for a meat-free protein option.
• Mediterranean Herbed Edition: Add crumbled feta cheese, kalamata olives, and swap Italian seasoning for fresh oregano and thyme to create a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwestern Style: Incorporate diced green chilies, swap Parmesan for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle smoked paprika for a zesty southwestern kick.
• Creamy Seafood Transformation: Substitute chicken with succulent shrimp or delicate white fish pieces, enhancing the sauce with a splash of white wine for an elegant seafood version.

FAQs About Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can! While penne works great, you can easily substitute with other short pasta like rigatoni, farfalle, or rotini. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

• Is this dish spicy?

The recipe has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the heat. Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes for a milder version, or add more if you like it spicier.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to boost the protein and flavor.

• How can I make this dish lighter?

To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, choose skinless chicken breast, and go easy on the Parmesan. You can also increase the vegetable content for a more nutritious meal.

Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

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4.6 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne brings Italian comfort to weeknight dinners with rich, silky sauce and tender chicken. Perfectly balanced flavors blend seamlessly, inviting you to savor each delightful forkful of this hearty pasta masterpiece.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 ounces (226 grams) mushrooms, sliced (baby bella or cremini work best)

Pasta and Base Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Finishing Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare a generously salted water bath in a large pot, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge penne pasta and cook until it reaches perfect al dente texture. Carefully extract and preserve a portion of the starchy cooking liquid before draining the pasta completely.

1. Transform chicken pieces with a robust blend of seasoning, ensuring each morsel is liberally coated with salt, ground black pepper, and smoky paprika. Heat a skillet with olive oil until it shimmers, then gently place the seasoned chicken. Allow each side to develop a golden-brown crust, cooking approximately 4-5 minutes. Once thoroughly cooked, transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

1. Within the same skillet, melt butter and introduce minced garlic, creating an aromatic base. Introduce sliced mushrooms, allowing them to soften and caramelize for several minutes. Incorporate asparagus spears, cooking briefly to maintain their vibrant color and delicate crunch.

1. Deglaze the pan with rich chicken broth, scraping up the flavorful browned bits clinging to the skillet’s surface. Reduce heat and weave in heavy cream, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, a whisper of red pepper flakes, and additional salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer and thicken, adjusting consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

1. Reunite the cooked pasta and seared chicken with the velvety sauce, gently folding until every ingredient is luxuriously coated. Use tongs to ensure even distribution, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

1. Elevate the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan. Plate immediately, accompanied by crusty garlic bread or a crisp side salad for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

• Achieve perfectly cooked pasta by generously salting the water and stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring each penne is tender yet firm.
• Choose chicken breast cut into uniform pieces for even cooking, which helps prevent dry or undercooked sections and promotes consistent golden-brown coloring.
• Keep asparagus crisp by briefly sautéing, maintaining its vibrant green color and preventing mushiness while preserving nutritional value and fresh texture.
• Create a silky sauce consistency by slowly adding pasta water, which helps emulsify ingredients and prevents separation, resulting in a luxuriously smooth coating.
• Customize the dish for dietary needs by substituting heavy cream with coconut milk for dairy-free options or using gluten-free pasta for sensitive individuals.
• Enhance flavor complexity by using a mix of mushroom varieties like shiitake and cremini, adding depth and earthiness to the overall dish.
• Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process, ensuring each component is ready and reducing potential stress during meal preparation.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg