The aroma wafting from your kitchen as you prepare Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine twirling forkfuls of tender penne pasta coated in a luscious cream sauce while savoring the earthy notes of mushrooms and the crisp freshness of asparagus. It’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds with every bite.
This recipe isn’t just about eating; it’s about stirring up memories. Picture family gatherings where laughter filled the air as everyone devoured generous portions. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, making it perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests. Get ready to unleash your inner chef and create an unforgettable culinary experience
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delectable pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile blends earthy mushrooms with vibrant asparagus for a delightful combination
- Its creamy texture is visually appealing and comforting all at once
- Best of all, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins or veggies
Sharing this dish at family dinners always brings smiles and compliments—everyone loves it
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on serving size needed.
- Penne Pasta: Use whole wheat or regular; cooking until al dente adds great texture.
- Fresh Asparagus: Choose firm stalks; they should snap easily when bent for optimal freshness.
- Cremini Mushrooms: These add deep flavor; slice them thick to retain some bite during cooking.
- Heavy Cream: Essential for that rich sauce; look for high-fat content for best results.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic packs more flavor than powdered; mince them finely to release their aroma.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh cheese melts beautifully into the sauce; use it generously
- Olive Oil: A drizzle for sautéing helps bring everything together without overpowering flavors.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple but crucial seasonings; adjust to taste as you cook.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while enhancing flavor depth in the sauce.
- Dried Oregano & Thyme: These herbs add aromatic layers; feel free to use fresh if available
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot over medium heat. Add penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions—about 10-12 minutes should do.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown—about 6-7 minutes per side works perfectly.
Add Garlic and Vegetables : Toss minced garlic into the skillet along with sliced mushrooms and chopped asparagus after removing chicken. Sauté until veggies soften—approximately 5 minutes should suffice.
Create the Sauce : Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with cooked veggies. Stir in oregano and thyme before letting it simmer gently—about 3-4 minutes will thicken things nicely.
Combine Everything : Slice cooked chicken into strips after resting briefly. Add it back to the skillet along with drained penne pasta, mixing well to coat everything in that dreamy sauce.
Finish with Cheese : Sprinkle grated Parmesan over your creamy creation before tossing one last time until melted evenly throughout—this is where magic happens
Enjoy your meal Each forkful delivers happiness wrapped in creaminess topped off with seasonal goodness
In just under 30 minutes, you have whipped up a comforting plate of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne that will leave everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). This recipe is not only easy but also versatile enough to adapt based on what’s lurking in your fridge or pantry Enjoy every bite
You Must Know
- This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne dish combines flavors that will make your taste buds dance
- The vibrant colors and aromas create an irresistible plate
- Perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s quick to prepare yet feels fancy enough for special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first for a golden crust, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This method ensures everything finishes at the same time, maximizing flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap asparagus for spinach or add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Different cheeses can also elevate the dish’s creaminess, giving it your unique flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk to retain creaminess and prevent drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor
- A touch of white wine can enhance the sauce beautifully
- Don’t forget to season each layer of cooking for maximum depth of flavor
Creating this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne brought back memories of my cousin’s dinner parties where we’d laugh over spilled sauce and too much garlic bread—priceless moments.
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas for protein without losing flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne is great, but feel free to use fettuccine or farfalle as alternatives.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a quick, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh asparagus in a luscious cream sauce. Perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove from pan and slice.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and chopped asparagus. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; stir in oregano and thyme. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes to thicken.
- Return sliced chicken to the skillet along with drained penne; mix well to coat in sauce.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 375g)
- Calories: 575
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 675mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
