Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich, satisfying pasta dish packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal meal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Creamy – A luscious Parmesan cream sauce coats every bite.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, mushrooms, and asparagus is irresistible.
• Easy & Quick – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• One-Pan Option – Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Pasta:

• Penne pasta
• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Italian seasoning

For the Sauce:

• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Mushrooms, sliced
• Asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• Heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• Chicken broth
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil 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

2. Season & Sauté – Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Cook Until Golden – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

4. Melt Butter & Sauté Garlic – In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
5. Cook Mushrooms & Asparagus – Add mushrooms and asparagus, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

6. Pour in Liquids – Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer.
7. Melt in Parmesan – Add grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes, stirring until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

8. Toss in Chicken & Pasta – Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained penne. Stir until everything is coated in the sauce.
9. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
• Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• Extra Protein – Add crispy bacon or shrimp for a twist.
• Different Cheese – Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino Romano.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the pasta without the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and mix with fresh sauce when ready.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta work well too.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a little extra chicken broth or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What’s the best way to cook asparagus so it stays crisp?

Cook it for just a few minutes to keep it tender-crisp. Overcooking makes it mushy.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great in this dish.

How do I get a deeper flavor in the sauce?

Sauté the mushrooms until golden brown and add a splash of white wine before the broth.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.

What sides go well with this pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair beautifully.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes! Cook everything ahead and store separately. Reheat gently and toss before serving.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it! Cook until just done, then let it rest before adding to the sauce.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. With tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a rich Parmesan sauce, it’s a comforting yet elegant dish that’s easy to make in under 30 minutes. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

Print