Discover the Best Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Recipe!

Are you craving a comforting, yet elegant pasta dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus! This one-pot wonder combines tender penne pasta, juicy chicken, and a silky, garlic-infused cream sauce, all elevated by the earthy notes of mushrooms and the fresh, vibrant asparagus. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily whip up in your own kitchen in just 30 minutes.

What makes this Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus recipe so irresistible? The combination of tender penne pasta, seared chicken, and a luscious, creamy sauce is a true delight for the senses. The mushrooms add an earthy depth of flavor, while the asparagus provides a pop of color and a crisp-tender texture that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Plus, with just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a gourmet-level pasta dish any night of the week.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

How to Make Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus

Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.

Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, flipping once, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender. Add the asparagus pieces and continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, until the asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp.

Flavor with Garlic

Once the vegetables are cooked, add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to allow the flavors to bloom and prevent the garlic from burning.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.

Add the Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish your Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve this delicious one-pot pasta immediately, and savor the restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own home.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Penne

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results with your Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus:

• Cook the pasta al dente: Be sure not to overcook the penne, as you want it to have a nice bite and texture that can stand up to the creamy sauce.
• Achieve the perfect sear on the chicken: Properly searing the chicken will give it a delicious golden-brown crust and lock in the juices, resulting in tender and flavorful bites.
• Substitute and customize: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes, to suit your preferences. You can also try using different types of pasta, like farfalle or rigatoni.
• Store and reheat leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, so any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Healthier Modifications for Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus

To make this Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus recipe even healthier, consider these simple substitutions:

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: Swap the regular penne for a whole grain or gluten-free version to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
• Reduce the cream: Instead of using 1 cup of heavy cream, try using a combination of low-fat Greek yogurt and a smaller amount of cream to lighten up the sauce.
• Add more vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini, to boost the nutritional value of the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or a crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. For a wine pairing, consider a light and crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the creamy sauce and fresh vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen asparagus and mushrooms in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen asparagus and mushrooms for Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus. However, it’s important to thaw and drain excess moisture from the vegetables before adding them to the skillet. This will help prevent the sauce from becoming too watery and ensure that the vegetables cook evenly. Keep in mind that frozen vegetables may release more water during cooking, so you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve the desired tenderness.

What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

If your creamy sauce becomes too thick, you can easily adjust its consistency. Start by adding a small amount of the reserved pasta water that you set aside earlier—this will help to loosen the sauce without compromising flavor. Alternatively, you can add a splash of chicken broth or additional heavy cream to achieve a creamier texture. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a minute or two to combine the flavors before serving.

Can I make Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with your choice of plant-based protein, such as tofu or chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Ensure that you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and consider a plant-based cream alternative to achieve the creamy sauce. This way, you’ll retain the essence of the dish while catering to vegetarian diets.

How can I enhance the flavor of the dish without adding more fat?

To enhance the flavor of your Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus without adding more fat, consider incorporating additional herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley can add freshness and depth. You can also use lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors without adding calories. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, while nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the extra fat. Experimenting with these ingredients can elevate your dish while keeping it light.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bites with Buttered Rotini
• Creamy Marry Me Chicken Pasta

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