As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of sautéing garlic filled the air, beckoning me to indulge in a culinary adventure. Today, I’m sharing my go-to comfort dish: Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne. This delightful recipe effortlessly combines tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a luxuriously creamy sauce. What I absolutely love about this dish is its quick prep time—it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in under 30 minutes! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: whether you need a gluten-free option or want to switch it up with fresh veggies, it can easily adapt to your dietary needs. Ready to rekindle the joy of homemade meals? Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering pasta that will surely impress your family or guests!
Why is Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne a Must-Try?
Simplicity, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Rich flavors arise from the combination of earthy mushrooms, tender chicken, and crisp asparagus tossed in a velvety creamy sauce.
Versatility shines through, as you can easily customize it with gluten-free pasta or fresh veggies to cater to dietary preferences.
Crowd-pleaser status is guaranteed, as its comforting nature leaves everyone craving more—it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Quick prep, delicious leftovers, and a delightful pairing with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread make this recipe a kitchen favorite.
Ready to learn more about other delicious recipes? Check out my tasty Crack Chicken Soup and Garlic Parmesan Chicken for even more culinary inspiration!
Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne Ingredients
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For the Pasta
Penne Pasta – The backbone of this dish, providing a perfect base; feel free to swap with fettuccine or rotini for a fun twist. -
For the Chicken
Chicken Breast – Adds heartiness and protein; shredded rotisserie chicken works wonders for convenience! -
For the Vegetables
Mushrooms (e.g., cremini or button) – Bring an earthy flavor and texture; substitute with zucchini or spinach for a vegetarian upgrade.
Asparagus – Offers a fresh, crunchy bite; you can easily replace it with broccoli or green beans if desired. -
For the Sauce
Heavy Cream – Creates that indulgently creamy sauce; for a lighter option, consider mixing milk with cornstarch to thicken.
Parmesan Cheese – Infuses richness and depth; Asiago or mozzarella are great substitutes for a different flavor profile.
Garlic – Elevates the overall taste; fresh garlic lends the best flavor, but garlic powder can suffice in a pinch.
Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing the chicken and veggies; for extra richness, you can also use butter here.
White Wine – Adds a layer of sophistication to the sauce (optional); omit it for a comforting non-alcoholic version.
This Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in comfort and warmth. Let’s gather these ingredients and get started on your new favorite dish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl while you prepare the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken breast to the pan and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and toss in the sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until they are tender and the mushrooms are beautifully browned. The vibrant asparagus should maintain a bit of crunch for texture in your creamy mushroom asparagus chicken penne.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Deglaze
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. The garlic will infuse the skillet with a lovely aroma. If you’re using white wine, pour it in now, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to simmer for 1-2 minutes until it reduces slightly, enhancing the sauce’s flavor profile.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir to combine, letting the sauce come to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Be careful not to boil it, as this could cause the cream to curdle.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken sauce. Use tongs or a spatula to gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the rich and velvety sauce. This step binds all the flavors of the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken penne together beautifully.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Once perfectly seasoned, serve the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken penne hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s sure to delight your family and friends!
What to Serve with Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne
Elevate your meal with perfect pairings that complement this comforting pasta dish beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread is the ultimate sidekick, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini adds vibrant colors and textures, enhancing the dish’s freshness and making it a colorful plate.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing create a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. It’s a classic combo everyone loves!
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs gracefully with the creamy flavors, enhancing the culinary experience and making for a delightful evening.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad with berries and citrus brings a sweet counterbalance to the meal, cleansing the palate after each bite of creamy goodness.
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Cheesecake: End your dinner on a luscious note with a slice of creamy cheesecake, its sweetness rounding out the meal beautifully, leaving everyone craving more!
Each of these suggestions harmonizes wonderfully with the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken penne, creating a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones.
Expert Tips for Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
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Perfect Sear: Aim for a golden brown on the chicken; overcooking can lead to dryness. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Veggie Crunch: Don’t over-sauté the asparagus and mushrooms; you want them tender, but slightly crisp for texture contrast in the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken penne.
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Cream Caution: Add the heavy cream on low heat to prevent curdling; stir continuously and let it simmer gently to achieve that luscious, velvety sauce.
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Wine Wisely: If using white wine, let it reduce properly to avoid a watery sauce. Alternatively, simply skip it for a non-alcoholic version that maintains richness.
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Leftover Love: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to revive its creamy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the penne pasta and the creamy sauce separately up to 3 days in advance, allowing for a quick and satisfying meal that’s just as delicious when reheated. Simply cook the pasta until al dente, drain it, and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking before refrigerating. For the sauce, prepare it according to the recipe, but store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the sauce in a skillet, stirring in the cooked chicken and asparagus before adding the penne. In just minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready to serve!
Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne Variations
Feel free to personalize your Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne with these fun and delicious twists!
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Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead for a plant-based dish without sacrificing flavor.
For those looking for a hearty alternative, you could add extra veggies like peas and sun-dried tomatoes, making every bite a colorful medley of flavors. -
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute traditional penne pasta with gluten-free alternatives such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.
This change allows everyone to indulge in a comforting pasta dish while catering to dietary restrictions, keeping the dish just as creamy and enjoyable. -
Extra Veggies: Add peas, spinach, or roasted red peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
These vibrant veggies not only enhance the dish’s earthiness but also add pops of color and texture. Embrace the versatility and make this dish your own! -
Baked Touch: Turn the penne into a bake by topping it with additional cheese and broiling until golden and bubbly.
This crispy finish brings a comforting twist to the creamy goodness, creating a delightful contrast that will make your taste buds dance with joy. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery flavor boost.
If you enjoy a little heat, this simple addition will elevate your dish, turning comforting pasta into a spirited culinary experience that warms your heart. -
Creamy Swap: Replace heavy cream with a luscious coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
You’ll still achieve that gorgeous, silky texture but add an exciting hint of sweetness from the coconut, bringing a tropical flair to the dish. -
Unique Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta to give distinct flavors.
Each cheese brings its own character to the sauce, creating a dish that’s uniquely yours. Explore different profiles and find your favorite combo! -
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to elevate the flavor profile of the sauce.
As these herbs mingle with the creamy goodness, they’ll infuse the dish with freshness that makes each bite feel like a warm hug from your garden.
Ready for more delicious ideas? Jump into my hearty Chicken Rice Casserole for an all-time family favorite, or try my tasty Gnocchi Chicken Pot for another comforting experience on a plate.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving this dish out; any leftovers should be refrigerated within 2 hours for food safety.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
- Freezer: You can freeze the creamy mushroom asparagus chicken penne for up to 2 months, but the sauce may separate upon thawing. To reheat, gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, a slow, low-heat method will help keep the creamy sauce velvety and prevent curdling.
Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
What should I consider when selecting mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing mushrooms, look for firm, plump ones without dark spots or blemishes. Fresh cremini or button mushrooms are excellent choices for their earthiness. If you prefer a meatier texture, portobello mushrooms can also be a fantastic option. Always ensure they are free of sliminess and have a pleasant aroma.
How can I store leftover Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne?
Very! Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them within 2 hours of cooking. The dish can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.
Can I freeze this dish, and what are the steps?
Definitely! To freeze your Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne, let it cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid separation of the sauce. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal at your convenience!
What if my sauce curdles while cooking?
Oh no! If your sauce curdles, don’t worry—there’s a way to salvage it! First, remove the pan from the heat. Then, add a splash of warm milk or broth slowly while whisking vigorously. The heat and liquid help bring the sauce back together. For future attempts, be sure to add the cream on low heat while stirring continuously, avoiding high temperatures that can cause curdling.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can make this dish gluten-free by substituting the penne pasta with a gluten-free alternative like chickpea or brown rice pasta. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and consider using vegetable broth with added vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavor and texture. Always double-check the ingredients in your cream and cheese for hidden allergens.
Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne: Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms and asparagus over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Add Garlic and Deglaze: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. If using white wine, add it now and simmer until it reduces slightly.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat, pour in heavy cream, and add Parmesan cheese. Cook for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne to skillet with sauce and toss gently to mix.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.
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