Craving a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to make? This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is the perfect balance of rich, cheesy goodness and fresh, wholesome ingredients. Packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus, this recipe is a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes.
Not only is this dish satisfying, but it also uses simple pantry staples, making it a go-to weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan pasta will become a new favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this irresistible dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Easy & Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔️ One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup, more flavor.
✔️ Creamy & Comforting: A rich, cheesy sauce coats every bite.
✔️ Loaded with Flavor: Garlic, parmesan, and fresh veggies make it a winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup milk (adjust for consistency)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in mushrooms and asparagus, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until tender.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Add parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce.
- Stir in milk for desired consistency.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle kick (optional).
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the creamy sauce.
- Toss well to coat everything in the rich, cheesy goodness.
- Simmer for 2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra parmesan cheese.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne!
Tips for the Best Creamy Pasta
✔️ Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente for the best texture.
✔️ Use fresh ingredients – Fresh mushrooms and asparagus enhance the flavor.
✔️ Adjust the sauce consistency – Add more milk or broth if needed.
✔️ Spice it up – A pinch of red pepper flakes gives it a kick!
What to Serve with This Pasta
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad – A fresh, crisp side pairs beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables – Add extra nutrition to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Pasta?
Yes! You can swap penne for fettuccine, rigatoni, or rotini.
Can I Make It Lighter?
To lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for the heavy cream.
Can I Store and Reheat It?
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove with a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is a perfect mix of comfort and freshness. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with delicious flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a guaranteed hit!
Try this recipe tonight and let us know how it turns out in the comments!
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