Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting yet elegant meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish blends tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms in a luscious cream sauce that coats each perfectly cooked penne, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe brings together freshness, creaminess, and heartiness in every bite, making it a truly satisfying and memorable experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and carefully chosen ingredients come together in this Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Each component adds its unique touch, contributing depth, texture, and bursts of flavor that elevate the dish into something special.

• Penne Pasta (8 oz): Provides the perfect tubular shape to hold the creamy sauce beautifully in every bite.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 large): Sliced into thin strips for quick, even cooking and tender, juicy meat.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruity richness while helping to sauté ingredients to golden perfection.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a fragrant, savory aroma that wakes up the entire dish.
• White Button Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced): Infuse an earthy, umami flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess.
• Asparagus Spears (1 bunch, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces): Offers a bright, slightly crisp contrast that balances the richness.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): The star of the sauce, creating that irresistible creamy texture you’ll love.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Melts into the sauce adding a sharp, savory tang and silky finish.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Enhances flavor complexity and enriches the sauce’s smoothness.
• Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle herbal note that ties all flavors together.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a pop of green and a fresh herbal contrast to the dish.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil—this is your foundation for perfectly tender pasta. Add the penne and cook it until al dente, which means it should be cooked through but still have a slight bite. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this starchy water will be a fantastic asset to adjust the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Season your chicken strips liberally with salt, pepper, and dried thyme, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken until each piece turns golden brown and is cooked through, usually 5 to 7 minutes. Once ready, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside—this step ensures your chicken stays juicy and tender.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and a tablespoon of butter. When melted, toss in the minced garlic and let it become fragrant for about 30 seconds. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they release their moisture and soften, approximately 4 to 5 minutes. Finally, add your asparagus cuttings and sauté for another 3 to 4 minutes to maintain a slight crunch and vibrant green color.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Turn the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the sauce begins to thicken. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts seamlessly into the mix, creating the luxurious base of your dish. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly stir in some of the reserved pasta water to reach your perfect creamy consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently toss it with the vegetables and sauce. Add your drained penne pasta next and mix well, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated in that decadent creamy goodness. Give it a quick taste and add a final seasoning adjustment if needed, because the perfect seasoning makes all the difference.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Dish out the creamy mushroom & asparagus chicken penne onto serving plates, then sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a delightful splash of color and fresh herbal brightness. Serve it immediately while the sauce is warm, silky, and inviting—this is a dish meant to be enjoyed fresh!

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a vibrant, clean note to this rich dish, but you can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or cracked black pepper for depth. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can lend a subtle kick if you like a little spice.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes or broccoli to add color and crunch. For some extra carbs, garlic bread or a warm baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of that heavenly sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant dinner party, serve your pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the beautiful ingredients, and garnish each plate with a delicate lemon twist or microgreens. You can also try layering the pasta with the chicken and veggies in a clear glass dish or individual mason jars for a rustic-chic feel that’s perfect for casual entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from the Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe should be transferred to an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. The dish will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy a tasty homemade meal even on busy days.

Freezing

This dish freezes reasonably well if stored properly. Use a freezer-safe container and keep the creamy pasta for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your creamy mushroom & asparagus chicken penne in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwave reheating if possible to preserve the texture and flavor of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but keep in mind the sauce may not be quite as rich and thick as with heavy cream.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add a bit more mushrooms or other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. You might want to add some extra seasoning or a splash of vegetable broth for more flavor.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Cook the chicken strips until they are golden brown and there’s no pink in the center. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) if you want to be precise, but visual cues usually work well too in this quick-cooking method.

What can I do to make the asparagus more tender?

If you prefer softer asparagus, extend the sauté time by a couple more minutes, or quickly blanch the pieces in boiling water before adding them to the skillet. This helps them cook evenly while retaining their bright color.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe—its perfect balance of creamy richness, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken makes it a comforting yet sophisticated meal perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own, sharing delightful moments around the dinner table with loved ones. Trust me; once you do, this dish will earn a forever spot in your recipe collection!

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