If you’re searching for pure pasta comfort with vibrant vegetables and succulent chicken in every bite, look no further than Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne. This dish is a joyful celebration of simple ingredients elevated by a luscious, velvety sauce. Earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, perfectly seasoned chicken, and a touch of Parmesan come together in an easy, cozy dinner that feels elegant yet totally approachable. It’s a recipe you’ll crave again and again—just the thing to bring everyone to the table with big, happy appetites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne starts with a handful of basic ingredients you likely already have. Each one plays an important role, whether bringing bold flavor, creamy texture, or just a pop of color. Here’s what you need—and why you want it!
- 12 oz penne pasta: The classic tube-shaped noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite creamy and satisfying.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken for that perfect golden sear.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Lean, tender, and ideal for soaking up all those herby, savory flavors.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Infuses the chicken with aromatic herbs right from the start.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for making all the flavors pop.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Builds the foundation for a velvety sauce and brings a lovely richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and punchy, garlic is the backbone of the sauce.
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced: Earthy mushrooms add depth and a satisfying bite.
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces: For beautiful green color, gentle crunch, and fresh flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that dreamy, luscious sauce that makes Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne unforgettable.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds savory depth and keeps the sauce light and silky.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, cheesy goodness and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick if you like a hint of heat.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of green adds freshness and looks gorgeous on the plate.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add in your penne pasta. Cook it just until al dente, following the package directions. Drain the pasta well, but don’t rinse—it’ll help the sauce stick beautifully later! Set aside while you prep the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss your chicken pieces with Italian seasoning plus a good pinch of salt and pepper. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken to the skillet in an even layer. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and keep it nearby; we’ll bring it back soon.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for a minute, just until fragrant. Toss in the sliced mushrooms next—let them cook without stirring too much so they get golden on the edges, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then, scatter in the asparagus and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything well to combine. Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer and let it bubble for a couple minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if you’d like a little heat. Watch as the sauce thickens and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken (and any juices!) to the skillet, letting it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so it soaks up all that creamy goodness. Add your drained penne pasta and toss everything together. Let it cook for just another minute so all the flavors marry. Serve your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne hot, topped with a shower of fresh parsley.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders—its vibrant green color brightens up the creaminess and balances the savory flavors. Don’t be shy with an extra dusting of Parmesan before serving, too! If you want a little extra zing, add a squeeze of lemon or a thin slice of fresh lemon on top for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
This pasta is hearty enough to stand alone, but it shines even brighter with a crisp green salad (think arugula, shaved fennel, and a lemony vinaigrette). Warm, crusty bread is always a winner for swiping up every last bit of sauce. For something a little lighter, try simple roasted veggies tossed with a drizzle of olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne family-style in a big bowl for a casual weeknight vibe, or plate it up in shallow pasta bowls for a special dinner. Swirl the pasta into little nests with tongs and top each mound with extra chicken, asparagus tips, and a Parmesan garnish for an elevated touch. You can even bake leftovers with a topping of breadcrumbs and cheese for a fun pasta casserole twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to store it as soon as possible for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? This pasta can be frozen, though the sauce may thicken slightly upon reheating. Portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat servings in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Garnish with fresh parsley and a touch more Parmesan to revive all those fabulous flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While penne is classic for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, feel free to try it with rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just keep in mind that tube shapes hold onto the creamy sauce especially well.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! Simply skip the chicken or swap it for sautéed tofu or cooked chickpeas. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne that everyone will love.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Of course! Just use your favorite gluten-free penne or pasta and double-check that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to prepare the asparagus?
Trim the tough, woody ends and cut the remaining stalks into 1-inch pieces. If you want extra-crisp asparagus, add it near the end of the cooking time or give it a quick blanch before adding it to the skillet.
Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes! A splash of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) added right after cooking the mushrooms infuses the sauce with a lovely depth. Just be sure to let it simmer a minute or two so the alcohol cooks off.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne your new weeknight signature dish. It’s the kind of recipe that’s quick enough for busy dinners, easy enough for any cook, and just fancy enough to serve with pride. Gather your favorite people and dig in—there’s nothing like creamy pasta to make an ordinary night feel extraordinary!
Print
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent yet simple-to-make dish with this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne recipe. Tender penne pasta is tossed in a luscious cream sauce with savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant asparagus. This satisfying meal is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Penne Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Penne: Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brown the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Add asparagus and cook until tender-crisp. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer.
- Combine and Serve: Add drained penne to the skillet, toss to coat in the sauce, and let flavors meld. Serve warm, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- For added flavor, consider using sautéed shallots or a splash of white wine in the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
