Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Published: March 24, 2025

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is incredibly easy to prepare even on busy weeknights
The flavor profile balances savory mushrooms with fresh asparagus perfectly
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dinner table
This dish is versatile enough to adapt based on seasonal ingredients you have available

I vividly recall the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They insisted I should start my own cooking show—maybe one day

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Tender chicken breasts work best; try using organic for a richer taste.
Penne Pasta: Short pasta like penne holds onto the sauce beautifully; feel free to substitute with whole wheat for a healthier option.
Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green stalks with firm tips; they add great crunch and color.
Mushrooms: Any variety works here; I prefer cremini for their deep flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and luscious; don’t skimp on quality
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese will melt beautifully into the sauce—no pre-shredded stuff here
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; you can never have too much garlic!
Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor wonderfully.
Salt & Pepper: Simple but essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 10-12 minutes usually does the trick.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides—around 5-7 minutes should do.

Add Garlic & Mushrooms: Once chickens are nearly cooked through, toss in minced garlic followed by your sliced mushrooms. Sauté until mushrooms are tender and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes will suffice.

Toss in Asparagus & Cream : Stir in chopped asparagus pieces along with heavy cream. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes until asparagus softens slightly but retains crunchiness.

Add Parmesan & Combine Pasta : Grate fresh parmesan cheese into your skillet while stirring until melted into creamy goodness! Finally, fold in drained penne pasta gently—making sure every piece gets coated.

Enjoy your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne hot off the stove

This recipe not only fills belly but warms hearts too—happy cooking

You Must Know

This delightful creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne combines savory flavors that will impress everyone
The aroma of garlic and sautéed mushrooms fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests with its appealing presentation

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This method ensures everything is hot and ready to serve at once, maximizing flavor and minimizing hassle.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out asparagus for broccoli or add spinach for extra greens. Experiment with different cheeses like Parmesan or Gouda to personalize the dish and enhance its creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Searing the chicken properly locks in moisture, making it juicy and flavorful
Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil to elevate the dish’s taste
Always taste before serving; adjusting seasoning can make all the difference!

Cooking this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne always reminds me of my friend’s dinner party where I almost burned down her kitchen. Luckily, this recipe saved the day, earning rave reviews

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use other pasta shapes for this recipe?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well; just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delightful vegetarian option.

What should I serve alongside this creamy penne?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this dish beautifully, enhancing your meal experience.