Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for both cozy weeknight dinners and elegant gatherings. The balance of flavors, textures, and colors makes it a standout meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and Parmesan, complements the tender chicken and fresh vegetables beautifully. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread, creating a complete and hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Sauce
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later use to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they release moisture and begin to brown.
- Add the asparagus and minced garlic to the pan.
- Sauté for another 3 minutes until the asparagus is tender yet crisp.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth.
- Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce.
- Toss everything together until well-coated.
- Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
- Serve hot with additional Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh mushrooms and asparagus for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick, or simmer it longer if it’s too thin.
- Season Layers: Season each component as you go to build depth in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Keep the asparagus slightly crisp to maintain a pleasant texture.
- Sauté Garlic Gently: Avoid burning the garlic as it can become bitter; cook it just until fragrant.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu for a different twist.
- Vegetable Variations: Add spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Cheese Alternatives: Use Asiago, Gouda, or Pecorino Romano for a unique taste.
- Cream Alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or a low-carb pasta alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or chicken broth to refresh the sauce.
Can I freeze this pasta?
While creamy pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do I reheat without drying the pasta?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Stir gently until heated through.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or farfalle are great alternatives that also hold the sauce well.
What can I serve with this dish?
A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 580
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed above.
- Reheating Tips: Always reheat on low heat to avoid breaking the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the cream sauce to separate.
Conclusion
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and a velvety Parmesan sauce creates a satisfying and flavorful meal. The balance of textures and flavors, along with the simplicity of preparation, makes it an ideal recipe for both busy weeknights and elegant dinners.
With easy variations and simple cooking techniques, this pasta dish can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it with garlic bread or a fresh salad, it’s a delicious and hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe today and bring the taste of restaurant-quality pasta to your home kitchen.