Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Name: Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (680g); 8 oz (225g) penne pasta; 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 8 oz (225g) cremini or button mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup (150g) fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces; 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream; 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

By Lisa

March 27, 2025

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The aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil fills the air, mingling with the earthy scent of mushrooms and the freshness of asparagus. This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne will transport you to a cozy Italian kitchen where every meal feels like a celebration. Just imagine twirling your fork through perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a luscious cream sauce that dances on your taste buds.

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Dish

Every time I make this dish, I’m reminded of family dinners filled with laughter and stories around the table. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a festive gathering, this recipe never fails to impress. The blend of flavors is so delightful that even my picky eaters beg for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly simple to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Its creamy texture paired with fresh vegetables creates a flavor explosion on your palate
The beautiful presentation makes it an inviting centerpiece for any dinner table
Plus, this dish is versatile; you can easily swap out ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand

I still chuckle thinking about the first time I served this dish at a friend’s gathering—everyone was so enchanted they practically licked their plates clean

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts will do; adjust based on your crowd size.
Penne Pasta: Use whole wheat or gluten-free if needed; cook until al dente for the best texture.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic adds a lovely aroma.
Mushrooms: Opt for cremini or button mushrooms; they bring earthiness to the dish.
Fresh Asparagus: Tender spears add crunch; trim the woody ends before cooking.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that dreamy sauce; half-and-half works if you prefer lighter dishes.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor significantly; save some for garnish
Olive Oil: A splash for sautéing; extra virgin adds richness.
Salt & Pepper: Season generously to enhance all the flavors in your dish.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs gives depth; oregano and basil are great choices.

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot, then add salt before tossing in the penne pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions and drain.

Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken breasts cooking until golden brown on both sides (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and slice.

Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until mushrooms release their moisture and become tender—about 5 minutes—then add asparagus spears.

Prepare Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet with veggies, stirring gently as it thickens. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese while mixing continuously until melted into the sauce.

Combine Ingredients: Return sliced chicken to skillet along with drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until well-coated with that creamy goodness.

Serve & Enjoy: Plate your masterpiece and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot for an unforgettable dining experience

By following these steps, you’ll create an exquisite pasta dish that impresses everyone at your table while making you look like a culinary genius

You Must Know

This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne dish is a delightful blend of flavors and textures
The rich sauce envelops the pasta perfectly, creating a comforting meal that warms your heart
The vibrant greens add freshness, making this dish not only tasty but visually appealing

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the penne while the sauce simmers. This sequence saves time and ensures everything finishes together, creating a deliciously cohesive meal.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap mushrooms for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Experimenting with seasonings like garlic powder or Italian herbs can elevate this dish to your personal taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive the sauce.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a creamy texture, make sure to use heavy cream rather than milk
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should remain al dente for better texture
Incorporate fresh herbs like basil just before serving for added flavor and aroma

The first time I made creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne, my friends devoured it Their smiles and compliments made me realize I had stumbled upon something special in this recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne?

Penne or fusilli are ideal as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.

Can I use frozen asparagus in this recipe?

Yes, frozen asparagus works well; just thaw and drain excess moisture before cooking.

Is there a vegetarian version of creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add more veggies or protein alternatives like tofu.

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