Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the sun sets and the kitchen fills with warmth, the delightful aroma of garlic and earthy mushrooms beckons me closer. There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne, especially when it can be on the table in just 30 minutes. This recipe not only satisfies my cravings for a rich and creamy dish, but it also offers a versatile canvas that can be tailored to suit anyone’s taste—whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or celebrating a special occasion. Plus, if you’re looking for a quick yet elegant meal that can easily accommodate gluten-free or vegetarian options, you’re in for a treat! Ready to dive in and discover how to create this delightful dish that will elevate your dinner routine? Let’s get started! Why is this recipe a game-changer? Quick and Easy: This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is a breeze to make, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish. Customizable Options: With numerous substitutions available, you can easily swap chicken for tofu or shrimp, allowing you to cater to every dietary need. Savory and Satisfying: The rich, creamy sauce paired with the earthy mushrooms and vibrant asparagus creates a dish that warms the heart. Perfect for Busy Nights: This recipe requires minimal prep, making it an excellent choice for those hectic evenings. Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this is a meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Pair it with some Garlic Bread or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded dinner! Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Ingredients For the Pasta • Penne Pasta – The hearty base of the dish; substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired. For the Protein • Chicken Breast – Adds protein and substance; alternately, use shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. For the Vegetables • Asparagus – Provides vibrant color and crunch; both fresh and frozen work well. • Mushrooms – Offer rich, earthy flavor; any variety like cremini or button is suitable. For the Sauce • Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, creamy sauce; for a lighter option, consider full-fat milk or coconut cream. • Garlic – Enhances aromatic depth; fresh garlic is preferred, but powdered garlic can be used in a pinch. For Cooking • Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; butter can be substituted for a richer flavor. • Salt & Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste. For Garnishing • Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami richness; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Step 1: Cook the Penne Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions for about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Before draining, be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set aside while you prepare the other ingredients. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn them. Then, add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to the pan, cooking them until they turn golden brown and release their juices, approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Step 3: Add the Chicken Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the skillet, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, with no pink remaining. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, toss in the chopped asparagus, allowing it to brighten and soften slightly. Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring thoroughly to combine all the flavors in your pan. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully. Use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency to your liking, adding it gradually until you reach a creamy, luscious texture. Step 5: Combine the Pasta Add the drained penne pasta right into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the penne is well-coated with the rich sauce and the mushrooms and asparagus are evenly distributed throughout. This is where the magic of the Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne truly comes together. Step 6: Serve and Garnish Once combined, serve the dish warm in bowls, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for added flavor. If you desire, add some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and aroma, creating an inviting presentation that’s sure to impress your family and friends. How to Store and Freeze Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of cream to retain creaminess. Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a little reserved pasta water or cream for optimal texture. Reheating: Always reheat on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. If it appears too thick, incorporate a bit of cream or pasta water to bring it back to life. Serving Freshness: For best taste, enjoy your Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne fresh, but these storage tips will ensure your dish remains delightful even after some time! Make Ahead Options These Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the sauce and cook the pasta up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions to make the creamy sauce, then allow it to cool before refrigerating it in an airtight container. For best results, store the cooked penne separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stove and add the penne, warming it gently. This way, you’ll enjoy a dish that is just as creamy and delightful, ready to be savored with minimal effort! Expert Tips for Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne • Pasta Water Reserve: Always reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency; this ensures the sauce clings perfectly to the penne. • Fresh vs. Frozen: Use fresh asparagus for the best crunch and flavor, but if you’re short on time, frozen asparagus works beautifully too! • Creaminess Control: To achieve your desired creaminess, gradually add reserved pasta water when combining the ingredients, rather than dumping it all at once. • Avoid Overcooking: Cook your pasta until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and spoil the lovely texture of your Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne. • Wine Addition: For a gourmet touch, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms to deepen the flavor profile. • Quick Protein Swaps: If you’re out of chicken, shrimp or sautéed tofu makes a fantastic substitute, keeping the dish just as satisfying and adaptable. Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Variations Feel free to personalize this delicious dish and discover new flavor profiles that make your taste buds dance! Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with sautéed tofu or tempeh. Roasted chickpeas can add delightful protein and texture. Seafood Swap: Use shrimp, scallops, or crab for a delightful seafood variation that brings a touch of ocean freshness. Cheesy Extra: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or various Italian blends for a creamy explosion of flavor. Roasted Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for vibrant pops of color and flavor. Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce during cooking for some extra heat that elevates the dish’s profile. Grain Switch: Use whole wheat or gluten-free penne for a healthier version, adding nutrition without sacrificing taste. Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance flavors and presentation, making it visually stunning. For more exciting ways to enjoy chicken, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaves or try the immersive flavors in Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken. Your culinary journey awaits! What to Serve with Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne As you prepare this comforting dish, imagine a table filled with delightful accompaniments that will elevate your dining experience. Garlic Bread: The perfect side for mopping up that luscious creamy sauce and adding a crunchy texture to your meal. Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp salad complements the richness of the dish while adding a zesty flavor that brightens every bite. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and zucchini infuse your meal with color and extra nutrients, enhancing both taste and presentation. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine beautifully balances the creaminess of the sauce and enriches the overall flavor profile. Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with fresh herbs mingles well with the dish, offering a subtle earthiness that pairs nicely with the ingredients. Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after the rich pasta, leaving a light and invigorating end to your meal. Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs What type of asparagus is best to use for this recipe? Fresh asparagus is ideal for its crunchy texture and bright flavor, but both fresh and frozen work beautifully in this dish. If you’re using fresh, look for firm stalks with tightly closed tips. If you go for frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand—just toss them in during the last couple of minutes of cooking for the best results. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently either in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to restore its luscious texture and prevent it from drying out. Can I freeze Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne? Absolutely! You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove over low heat, and don’t forget to add a little cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency. How can I ensure my sauce isn’t too thick? If your sauce becomes too thick, start by gradually adding some of the reserved pasta water while gently stirring, until you reach the desired creaminess. This is an essential step—holding onto that pasta water allows you to fine-tune your sauce just right! Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! For a gluten-free option, simply swap out the regular penne with gluten-free pasta. For a vegetarian alternative, you can replace the chicken with either tofu, tempeh, or roasted chickpeas. Always check ingredient labels, especially for packaged items like heavy cream or pasta, to keep allergies in check. What should I do if I run out of heavy cream? If you’re out of heavy cream, don’t fret! You can easily substitute it with full-fat milk or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture and richness may vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine through beautifully. Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne in 30 Minutes Experience the delightful flavors of Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne in just 30 minutes. Comfort food at its best, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ItalianCalories: 600 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Penne Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desiredFor the Protein1 pound Chicken Breast Can substitute with shrimp or tofuFor the Vegetables8 ounces Mushrooms Any variety like cremini or button1 cup Asparagus Both fresh and frozen work wellFor the Sauce1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with full-fat milk or coconut cream3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferredFor Cooking2 tablespoons Olive Oil Butter can be substituted for a richer flavorto taste Saltto taste PepperFor Garnishing1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative Equipment Large PotLarge SkilletMeasuring cupsMeasuring spoons Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken PenneBegin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions for about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining and set aside.In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of diced chicken breast, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Add chopped asparagus in the last 2 minutes of cooking.Reduce heat to low and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.Add drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine, ensuring pasta is well coated with sauce and vegetables are evenly distributed.Serve warm in bowls, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. Add fresh herbs for color and aroma. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesReserve pasta water for sauce consistency. Fresh asparagus is preferred for flavor, but frozen works well too. Adjust creaminess with reserved pasta water accordingly. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
