Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

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Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting, satisfying dish that brings together tender penne pasta, juicy seasoned chicken, and a rich mushroom cream sauce with just enough brightness from fresh asparagus. It strikes a delicious balance of savory, creamy, and earthy tones, perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal.

What makes this pasta stand out is the way simple ingredients transform into something luxurious. The mushrooms add depth and umami, while asparagus offers a crisp bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s hearty, fresh, and full of flavor.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Chicken Recipes?

Penne is an excellent choice because its tube-like shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly, giving you a flavorful bite every time. However, other short pastas like rigatoni or farfalle would also work. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine, as they don’t cling to the sauce as effectively.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Chicken Breast
Sliced and seared until golden, it adds protein and heartiness to the dish.

Penne Pasta
Its shape helps soak up the creamy sauce and adds substance to the meal.

Cremini or Baby Bella Mushrooms
These give a rich, meaty texture and deep flavor.

Asparagus
Fresh and slightly crunchy, it brightens up the richness of the sauce.

Garlic
A key aromatics base that infuses the dish with savory flavor.

Heavy Cream
Creates a luscious, thick sauce that clings to each piece of pasta.

Parmesan Cheese
Salty and nutty, it melts into the sauce for extra depth.

Olive Oil and Butter
Used to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables, adding richness and flavor.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.

Fresh Parsley (optional)
A touch of green to finish and enhance presentation.

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How To Make the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by slicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Heat a mix of olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Asparagus

In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed and toss in sliced cremini mushrooms. Let them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a rich, caramelized color. Add trimmed asparagus cut into 2-inch pieces and sauté until just tender-crisp.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in minced garlic, letting it cook briefly until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt, thickening the sauce. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained penne and toss everything together in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

This pasta dish is best served immediately while the sauce is silky and warm. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread or a rustic baguette to complete the meal. For a touch of freshness, squeeze a little lemon juice over the top or serve with lemon wedges on the side.

To store, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use grilled chicken instead of pan-seared for a lighter version.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely. Rigatoni, rotini, or even orecchiette would work well and hold the sauce nicely.

What other vegetables can I add?

Peas, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the chicken and double up on the mushrooms or add chickpeas for a protein boost.

How do I avoid curdling the cream?

Keep the heat on low when adding cream and avoid boiling. Stir continuously for a smooth, stable sauce.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not recommended since cream-based sauces tend to separate after freezing, affecting the texture.

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