Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting yet elegant pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms in a luscious, Parmesan-infused cream sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, with each bite delivering rich flavors alongside bright, crisp vegetables. The penne pasta serves as the ideal base, holding onto the creamy sauce and making this dish satisfying for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients yet delivering maximum taste. The garlic and onion powders add depth to the chicken, while the Parmesan cheese enriches the cream sauce, creating a velvety coating that perfectly complements the veggies and pasta. With olive oil sautéing the ingredients and a quick cooking process, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy households. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be easily customized or doubled to feed more people.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy Sauce

The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a decadent, silky sauce.

2. Balanced with Fresh Vegetables

Asparagus and mushrooms add texture, flavor, and nutrition.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cook time.

4. Versatile and Customizable

Add other veggies, swap penne for other pasta, or adjust seasoning to your liking.

5. Family-Friendly

Mild flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta
• Olive oil
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Sliced mushrooms
• Asparagus (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Variations

• Add Garlic: Sauté fresh minced garlic with mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Different Vegetables: Substitute asparagus with broccoli, zucchini, or peas.
• Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper taste.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce cheese.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add mushrooms and asparagus. Cook until tender, about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Make Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Heat Through

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce. Heat through for 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
• Do not overcook asparagus; it should remain slightly crisp.
• Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Cook chicken pieces evenly by cutting into uniform sizes.
• Stir sauce gently to avoid breaking the cream.

How to Serve

• Serve topped with extra grated Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley.
• Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten flavors.
• Serve with a glass of white wine such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay.
• Garnish with cracked black pepper and red pepper flakes if desired.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the cream sauce texture may change slightly. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, penne works well, but rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle are good substitutes.

2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter can work as a lighter alternative.

3. Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen asparagus before adding to avoid excess moisture.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Cook on low heat and avoid boiling once cream is added.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes to make it vegan or lactose-free.

6. How long does this dish keep?

Best consumed within 3 days when refrigerated.

7. Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead?

Yes, cook pasta and chicken in advance; reheat and combine when ready to serve.

8. Can I add fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, sauté minced garlic with vegetables for extra aroma.

9. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements it nicely.

10. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely, it reheats well and maintains flavor for a few days.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a perfect blend of comfort food and fresh ingredients that comes together quickly and easily. The luscious cream sauce, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables make it a satisfying meal for any day of the week. Its versatility and straightforward preparation make it a dependable recipe to keep in your culinary rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavor and delightful texture.

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