Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Catch the aroma of sautéed mushrooms mingling with tender asparagus as you dive into a plate of creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne. This dish is not just a meal it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly evening or a showstopper for your next dinner party. Imagine twirling those perfectly cooked penne around your fork, coating each piece in a luscious cream sauce that whispers promises of savory goodness.

Now picture this: you invite friends over for a casual gathering, but instead of serving them store-bought snacks that come with more preservatives than personality, you whip up this delightful dish. The laughter around the table is as rich as the flavors in the bowl, making it an occasion to remember. Who wouldn’t want to be known as the culinary genius among friends?

I still remember the first time I made this recipe; my family was so impressed that they asked for seconds before even finishing their first helping.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts depending on how many people I’m feeding.
• Penne Pasta: Choose whole grain or regular penne based on your preference; both work wonderfully.
• Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green stalks that are firm; they add crunch and color.
• Mushrooms: I love using cremini mushrooms for their rich flavor; button mushrooms work too.
• Heavy Cream: You can’t skimp here; it provides that luscious texture we all crave.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will add depth—don’t even think about using powdered here.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for maximum flavor; you’ll thank yourself later.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all those lovely flavors.
• Italian Seasoning Blend: A little sprinkle can elevate the dish from good to phenomenal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add about 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.

Sauté Chicken: While your pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before adding them to the skillet. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Add Aromatics: Once the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F), remove it from the skillet and let it rest. In the same pan, add minced garlic (about 3 cloves) and sliced mushrooms—sauté until fragrant and mushrooms are tender.

Toss in Asparagus: Next, add chopped asparagus (about 1 cup) into the pan with mushrooms. Cook everything together until bright green and slightly tender—this should take about 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream along with grated Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup). Stir well to combine all ingredients while allowing the sauce to simmer gently until thickened slightly—around 5 minutes.

Combine Everything: Slice your rested chicken into strips and return it to the skillet along with drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until each piece is coated in that dreamy sauce.

Serve this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne immediately while it’s hot. Enjoy every bite because you deserve it.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create an efficient cooking sequence, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While that sizzles, cook the penne pasta and prepare your creamy sauce in parallel for optimal timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out asparagus for broccoli or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor punch. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or a hint of lemon zest for a bright twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Creating this dish reminds me of a cozy dinner I had with friends where we couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. Their laughter filled the kitchen, making it a cherished memory.

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?

You can use tofu or chickpeas as excellent vegetarian alternatives to chicken.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to amp up the heat in your sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything except for the pasta and combine them when ready to serve.