Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe – A Divine Dinner Delight

Savoring a delightful creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne has become my ultimate comfort meal when hunger strikes.

Rich pasta embraces tender chicken with velvety sauce and vibrant vegetables.

Seasonal ingredients dance together, creating a symphony of flavors that feels both elegant and homey.

Mushrooms add earthiness while asparagus brings a crisp, fresh dimension to every forkful.

Professional chefs might appreciate the balanced complexity, but home cooks will love how simple this dish comes together.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers pure culinary magic.

You’ll want to bookmark this gem for your next dinner adventure.

Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne Rich And Comforting

• Tackle in a Flash: Prepare this delightful chicken penne in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customize Your Comfort: Easily adapt the recipe by swapping vegetables, adjusting spice levels, or adding your favorite herbs to create a personalized dish that suits your taste buds.
• Nutrition Meets Flavor: Packed with protein from chicken, vitamins from asparagus, and rich, creamy goodness, this recipe offers a balanced meal that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this single-skillet recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.

Ingredients To Make Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Penne Pasta: A classic Italian pasta shape that perfectly holds onto the creamy sauce and provides a satisfying texture.
• Chicken Breast: Lean and tender protein that adds a hearty element to the dish.
• Mushrooms, Asparagus: Mushrooms offer an earthy flavor and meaty texture, while asparagus brings a fresh, green crunch to the recipe.

• Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Heavy cream creates a luxurious and silky sauce base, and Parmesan cheese adds a rich, salty depth of flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Provides additional depth and enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, Red Pepper Flakes: These spices and herbs add layers of flavor and complexity to the dish.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out and balancing the flavors of all ingredients.
• Minced Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic base to the sauce.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Provide a rich cooking medium and contribute to the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

How To Prepare Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Grab a large pot and fill it with water. Sprinkle in some salt to enhance the flavor.

Bring the water to a rolling boil. Toss in the penne pasta and cook it until it’s perfectly tender but still has a slight bite.

Once done, scoop out a half cup of the starchy pasta water – this liquid gold will come in handy later. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Warm up a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Dust the chicken with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Carefully place the chicken in the hot skillet. Let it sizzle and dance around for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally.

You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown exterior and completely cooked interior. Once done, transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 3: Saute the Veggies

In the same skillet, add another drizzle of olive oil and a pat of butter. Toss in minced garlic and let it become wonderfully fragrant for about 30 seconds.

• Sliced mushrooms

Let them cook for 5-6 minutes until they release their moisture and turn a gorgeous golden brown. Next, introduce the asparagus and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re perfectly tender-crisp.

Step 4: Craft the Creamy Sauce

• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese

Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes luxuriously thick.

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Slide the cooked chicken back into the skillet and coat it in the dreamy sauce. Add the pasta and toss everything together until it’s beautifully combined.

If the sauce seems too thick, splash in some of that reserved pasta water to reach your perfect consistency.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates.

Shower it with extra Parmesan cheese and a generous crack of black pepper. Serve immediately and prepare to be transported to comfort food heaven!

Tips To Nail Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Cook penne al dente to maintain a perfect firm bite, preventing mushy pasta that can ruin the dish's overall texture.
• Choose bright green, firm asparagus spears with tight tips to ensure maximum flavor and crisp-tender texture when cooking.
• Stir continuously when adding cream and cheese to create a smooth, silky sauce without unwanted clumping or breaking.
• Use reserved pasta water strategically to thin out the sauce if it becomes too thick, creating a perfectly creamy coating for the pasta.
• Taste and adjust salt incrementally, remembering that Parmesan cheese adds natural saltiness to the final dish.

Flavorful Variations To Try On Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace chicken with extra-firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using same seasoning method for protein-rich vegetarian version.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Option: Swap penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining creamy sauce and vegetable profile.
• Dairy-Free Coconut Cream Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for lactose-intolerant individuals.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap Italian seasoning with za'atar spice blend, incorporate kalamata olives for Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions To Enjoy Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Select a bright, acidic Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the creamy sauce and complement the earthy mushroom flavors.
• Create a crusty, buttery side of toasted baguette slices rubbed with garlic and sprinkled with fresh parsley to soak up the rich, creamy sauce.
• Toss peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette, shaved Parmesan, and toasted pine nuts to provide a fresh, zesty contrast to the hearty pasta dish.

Proper Storage Advice For Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent freezer burn.
• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a tablespoon of water or additional cream to restore moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Warm gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent drying. Stir frequently to distribute heat evenly and maintain sauce consistency.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne?

The main ingredients include penne pasta, chicken, mushrooms, asparagus, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and seasonings like garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute chicken with tofu, plant-based chicken alternatives, or simply omit the protein and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

• How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to your heat preference. A pinch will add a mild warmth, while more will increase the spice level significantly.

Creamy Mushroom And Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Comforting creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne delivers a delightful pasta experience with rich, earthy flavors. Hearty ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a satisfying meal that will transport taste buds to culinary bliss.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup (100 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Fill a spacious pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a rolling boil at high heat.
2. Submerge penne pasta into the boiling water and cook until perfectly tender yet firm, following package timing guidelines.
3. Extract 1/2 cup of starchy pasta water, then carefully drain pasta and set aside in a separate container.
4. Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high temperature, creating a light shimmer across the surface.
5. Sprinkle chicken with aromatic seasonings including garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and ground pepper.
6. Gently place seasoned chicken into the hot skillet, allowing each piece to develop a golden-brown exterior through 5-7 minutes of cooking.
7. Transfer fully cooked chicken to a waiting plate, keeping warm.
8. In the same skillet, introduce remaining olive oil and butter, creating a rich cooking medium.
9. Quickly introduce minced garlic, allowing it to release its fragrant essence for approximately 30 seconds.
10. Add mushrooms and sauté until they release moisture and transform into a beautiful caramelized brown color.
11. Incorporate asparagus, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes to maintain a vibrant, crisp texture.
12. Pour chicken broth into the vegetable mixture, letting it simmer and concentrate flavors for 2 minutes.
13. Slowly blend heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring consistently until the sauce reaches a luxurious, slightly thickened consistency.
14. Enhance the sauce with Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes, adjusting salt and pepper to personal preference.
15. Reintroduce cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring complete sauce coverage.
16. Fold in cooked penne, guaranteeing every pasta piece is generously coated with the creamy sauce.
17. If sauce appears too dense, gradually incorporate reserved pasta water until achieving desired smoothness.
18. Elegantly plate the pasta, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
19. Serve immediately, presenting a comforting and sophisticated culinary creation.

Notes

• Ensure pasta reaches al dente texture by testing a piece 1-2 minutes before package instructions suggest for perfect bite.
• Choose skinless chicken breasts for leaner protein, trimming any visible fat before seasoning to enhance healthier profile.
• Slice mushrooms uniformly for even cooking, preventing some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked.
• Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for lower-calorie alternative without compromising creamy texture.
• Add red pepper flakes gradually to control spice level, allowing each diner to customize heat intensity.
• Select fresh asparagus with firm, bright green stalks to guarantee maximum flavor and nutritional value.
• Consider using gluten-free penne for celiac-friendly version without altering overall recipe complexity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 506 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 310 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg