Looking for the ultimate comfort food? Discover this delicious Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne recipe! It’s easy to make, full of rich flavors, and perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Introduction to Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
When it comes to quick, flavorful, and satisfying meals, Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne tops the list. Packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and creamy sauce all wrapped around penne pasta, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, this creamy chicken penne pasta will not disappoint.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, tips for perfect results, ingredient variations, and why this recipe should be your new go-to meal.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and tender chicken creates an irresistible depth of flavor.
- Easy to Make: In less than an hour, you can have a homemade restaurant-quality dish ready to enjoy.
- Perfectly Balanced: Protein, vegetables, and carbs come together in a perfect, balanced meal.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love the creamy goodness wrapped in every bite of penne pasta.
Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
To create the ultimate Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, you’ll need the following:
- Penne pasta – 12 ounces
- Chicken breasts – 2 large, sliced thin
- Asparagus – 1 bunch, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- Mushrooms – 8 ounces, sliced (cremini or white button mushrooms work great)
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese – ¾ cup, grated
- Chicken broth – ½ cup
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Red pepper flakes – optional, for a touch of heat
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water. It’s great for adjusting the sauce consistency later.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper, then cook them until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add butter. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until just tender but still vibrant green. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits. Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything to coat with the luscious creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne with freshly chopped parsley and a bit more Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh asparagus, mushrooms, and quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta will absorb the sauce better and won’t get mushy.
- Don’t Overcook Asparagus: Keep the asparagus slightly crisp to maintain its bright color and fresh flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce: If the sauce feels too heavy, a splash of lemon juice can lighten it up beautifully.
Variations You Can Try
Want to personalize your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne? Here are some fun variations:
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits make the dish even more decadent.
- Use Different Pasta: Try fettuccine, rigatoni, or even whole wheat penne.
- Make It Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño.
- Add Other Vegetables: Spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes would be fantastic additions.
- Make It Healthier: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and whole-grain pasta for a lighter version.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you may not!), store them properly:
- Refrigerate: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save you time and still give you fantastic results.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini mushrooms have a deeper flavor, but white button mushrooms are a great, affordable option.
Why This Creamy Chicken Penne Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an elevated comfort food experience. The creamy sauce envelops each penne tube perfectly, the chicken is juicy, the asparagus is fresh and slightly crisp, and the mushrooms bring an earthy depth that ties it all together.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party, planning a romantic meal, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers big flavors with relatively little effort. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, a glass of white wine, and some crusty bread.
Conclusion
Ready to impress your family or guests? Then it’s time to whip up a batch of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne. It’s easy, luxurious, and packed with savory, creamy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
So next time you’re looking for a winning dinner idea, remember this creamy chicken penne recipe—it’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for a celebration.
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