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If you are searching for a comforting dish that combines the fresh flavors of garden vegetables with tender chicken and a luscious sauce, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is an absolute winner. Every forkful delivers perfectly cooked penne enveloped in a dreamy, velvety sauce studded with earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and juicy, golden chicken pieces. It’s a dish that feels both elegant and homey, perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends when you want something truly satisfying yet surprisingly quick to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together to create complex layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role, balancing creaminess, freshness, and a little punch of seasoning that makes every bite memorable.
- 12 oz penne pasta: This sturdy pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fragrant, smooth base for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and tender bites of protein.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms: Provide an earthy depth and supple texture to the dish.
- 1 bunch asparagus: Adds a bright, fresh crunch and vibrant green color.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the sauce with aromatic richness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the irresistible silky, creamy sauce that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce and adds subtle savory notes.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a nutty, sharp finish and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning: Lends a fragrant herbal lift to the creaminess.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a pop of color and fresh, bright flavor as garnish.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne according to the package instructions until it is perfectly al dente. This ensures each bite has just the right amount of bite and softness. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside—don’t overcook it now because it will finish cooking slightly when tossed into the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper for flavor, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook each piece until golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside to keep it juicy and ready to rejoin the dish later.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Asparagus
Using the same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and the trimmed, cut asparagus. Sauté these vibrant vegetables for about 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to soften and release their natural moisture while the asparagus retains a tender-crisp texture. This step highlights the wonderful freshness and adds a delightful variety of textures to the plate.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute just until fragrant. Garlic brings a warm depth and subtle spiciness that melds beautifully with the other ingredients without overpowering the dish.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together so it combines seamlessly. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer on medium heat, which allows the flavors to marry while the sauce begins to thicken to its luscious consistency.
Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Herbs
Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme or your preferred Italian seasoning. This step enriches the sauce with a wonderful savory depth and a subtle herbal note. Let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce becomes silky and slightly thickened, perfect for coating the pasta.
Step 7: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring each piece of pasta is beautifully coated in that rich cream sauce. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if you feel it needs a little more brightness or balance.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
As a final touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a dash of color and a fresh herbaceous note. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture—this is a dish that shines brightest when enjoyed hot and fresh from the pan.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic go-to garnish for this dish, lending a fresh color contrast and bright flavor burst that cuts through the creamy sauce. For extra flair, try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for mild heat or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to elevate the silkiness of the cream sauce.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette makes a perfect companion, ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls with a garnish of microgreens or edible flowers. You can also spoon the creamy mixture onto a bed of sautéed spinach or nestle it inside large baked portobello mushrooms for an eye-catching presentation at dinner parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers of the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It freezes best without the fresh parsley garnish. Frozen, it can last up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This will restore that signature creamy texture without drying out the chicken or vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other sturdy shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully too. Just cook to al dente and drain well before adding to the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese to keep it creamy without the dairy. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?
Certainly! Simply omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version that still shines with creamy goodness.
What can I use instead of heavy cream to lighten the sauce?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk plus a teaspoon of flour to thicken the sauce gently. Keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich, but it will remain flavorful and satisfying.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy?
Cutting the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and not overcooking it in the skillet is key. Cook on medium-high heat until just golden and no longer pink inside to keep the meat tender and moist.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is one of those culinary treasures that never fails to impress, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion. Its blend of textures, vibrant colors, and rich, comforting flavors make it a dependable favorite to have in your recipe rotation. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delightful experience with your loved ones.
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