Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

By Muhammad Faizan

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

 Description

This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is a rich, comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken slices, sautéed mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and penne tossed in a velvety garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner—quick, hearty, and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced

  • 8 oz (225g) penne pasta

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

  • 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tbsp butter

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

  2. Add penne and cook until al dente (about 10–12 minutes).

  3. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add sliced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (6–7 minutes).

  3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add butter.

  2. Sauté mushrooms for 3–4 minutes until golden.

  3. Add asparagus and cook for another 3 minutes.

  4. Add garlic and cook until fragrant (30 seconds).

4. Make the Cream Sauce

  1. Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan.

  2. Add heavy cream and Italian seasoning.

  3. Let the sauce simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

  4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Combine Everything

  1. Add cooked chicken back to the skillet.

  2. Add drained penne and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

  3. Season with salt and pepper if needed.

  4. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Servings

➡️ Serves 4 people

Nutritional Information (Per Serving — Approx.)

  • Calories: 580

  • Protein: 33 g

  • Carbohydrates: 52 g

  • Fat: 27 g

  • Fiber: 4 g

  • Sugar: 4 g

  • Sodium: 540 mg

(Values may vary depending on exact ingredients.)

Benefits

✔ High in protein

Chicken provides lean, filling protein.

✔ Contains healthy vegetables

Asparagus is rich in folate, fiber, and antioxidants; mushrooms support immune health.

✔ Balanced meal

Includes protein, carbs, and veggies all in one dish.

✔ Comforting yet simple

Perfect for busy nights without sacrificing flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

  • Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

  • For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add white wine while sautéing vegetables.

  • Works well with gluten-free pasta.

Tips

  • Don’t overcook the asparagus— keep it bright and slightly crisp.

  • Slice chicken evenly for consistent cooking.

  • Allow the sauce to simmer gently; boiling can cause separation.

  • If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.

Q&A About the Recipe

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, but pasta absorbs sauce. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth.

Q2: Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely—shrimp, turkey, or even tofu work great.

Q3: What mushrooms work best?

Cremini or baby bella mushrooms offer the best flavor, but white button mushrooms work, too.

Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes: use coconut milk + nutritional yeast instead of cream and Parmesan.

Q5: How do I make it spicier?

Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.

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