If you are craving a comforting dish that masterfully combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms all entwined in a luscious sauce, then this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful marriage of textures and flavors where the silky cream and tangy Parmesan cheese elevate simple ingredients into a feast that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this recipe makes for a reliably delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the dish’s rich flavor and inviting texture. You’ll find familiar staples alongside fresh produce, creating a balanced and visually appealing meal.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce in every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps cook the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy and even cooking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for sautéing mushrooms and garlic.
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms: Provide an earthy, meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- 1 bunch asparagus: Trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, adding a crisp, fresh bite and vibrant color.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a fragrant, savory punch that lifts the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that irresistibly smooth and velvety sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that makes the sauce unforgettable.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle hint of heat that brightens the dish.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses a fresh citrus aroma that cuts through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped, to garnish and bring a burst of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Asparagus
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, ensuring it’s al dente for the best texture. In the last two minutes of cooking, toss in the asparagus pieces to blanch them just right—this keeps them tender-crisp and vibrant green. Drain them together and set aside, preserving the flavors and freshness for the final mix.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan in a single layer. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes, flipping occasionally. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest, locking in its juiciness.
Step 3: Cook Mushrooms and Prepare the Sauce
Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced mushrooms, letting them brown and become tender over 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for a quick 30 seconds, enough to awaken its flavor without burning it. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and starts to gently thicken. Toss in crushed red pepper flakes if using, along with the lemon zest to elevate the flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken, penne pasta, and asparagus back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Give everything a good toss to coat every piece evenly and let it warm through for 1 to 2 minutes. This final step lets the flavors marry beautifully, making sure every forkful is packed with deliciousness.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic finishing touch, adding a pretty green pop and herbaceous brightness that balances the dish’s richness. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy indulgence or a twist of freshly cracked black pepper for subtle spice.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creamy sauce. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette works beautifully to scoop up any leftover sauce, making the meal even more satisfying. Roasted cherry tomatoes would also add a juicy contrast to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, plate the penne in a shallow bowl, layering the chicken and asparagus across the top. Garnish with parsley and lemon zest for bursts of color. If you like, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish and an elevated aroma. Presenting it family-style on a large platter lets everyone dive in and share the joy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, so reheated portions taste just as delightful. Just be sure to cool the dish before storing to maintain the best texture and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe can be frozen, though the asparagus texture may soften slightly upon thawing. Transfer leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore the sauce’s silky consistency. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to warm evenly without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the pasta shape.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich and creamy. To help thicken, consider adding a small amount of cornstarch slurry during cooking.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the butter for a dairy-free margarine or olive oil, use coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, and replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces ensures quick, even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the pan and cook over medium-high heat until golden but not overdone. Resting the chicken briefly after cooking locks in the juices perfectly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Peas, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make wonderful additions. Add these towards the end of cooking to keep their texture and freshness intact.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels both fancy and approachable. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a homemade restaurant-quality dinner. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with its comforting flavors and effortlessly elegant vibe. Your taste buds will thank you.
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Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
A comforting and creamy Italian-inspired main course featuring tender chicken breast, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh asparagus tossed with penne pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce, garnished with lemon zest and parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Sautéing and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Asparagus: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the asparagus pieces to the boiling water. Drain pasta and asparagus together and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they become browned and tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture continuously until smooth. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add crushed red pepper flakes and lemon zest, stirring to combine.
- Combine All Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken, drained penne pasta, and asparagus to the skillet with the cream sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve the creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the cream.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Make sure not to overcook the asparagus to retain crunch and color.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best taste and smooth sauce texture.
