Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

 Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

If you're craving a rich, comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a luscious cream sauce, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is sure to hit the spot. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe balances bold flavors with simple preparation, making it a go-to for busy households.

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Why You'll Love This Recipe

Flavor-Packed: The combination of savory chicken, rich mushrooms, and vibrant asparagus creates a perfect harmony.

Creamy Yet Light: The silky sauce feels indulgent but isn't overwhelmingly heavy.

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.

Versatile: Easily customizable with extra veggies, different proteins, or a sprinkle of spice.

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Ingredients and Their Roles

To achieve the perfect balance of flavors, each ingredient plays a crucial role:

Main Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced – Provides a tender, protein-rich base for the dish.

8 oz penne pasta – The perfect pasta for holding creamy sauce in its ridges.

1 tbsp olive oil – Used for sautéing and adding rich flavor to the chicken and vegetables.

1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Adds a savory, earthy depth to the dish.

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces – Offers a fresh, slightly crisp bite that balances the creamy sauce.

For the Cream Sauce

3 tbsp butter – Creates a rich foundation for the sauce.

3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with bold, aromatic flavor.

1 cup heavy cream – Delivers the luxurious creaminess that defines this dish.

½ cup chicken broth – Helps thin the sauce while enhancing the chicken's savory notes.

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth, saltiness, and a smooth, cheesy finish.

Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning each layer of flavor.

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For garnish and a touch of brightness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.

2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Toss in the asparagus and cook for another 2-3 minutes until just tender yet crisp.

4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.

2. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

3. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.

4. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing until coated in the creamy sauce.

2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

3. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

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Pro Tips for Perfecting This Dish

✔️ Don't overcook the chicken. Cook just until golden brown and set aside — this keeps it tender and juicy.

✔️ Add the asparagus last. This ensures it stays bright green and crisp rather than soggy.

✔️ Balance the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of extra chicken broth to thin it out.

✔️ Grate fresh Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy, while freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy pasta with:

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to contrast the richness.

Warm garlic bread or homemade rolls for soaking up the sauce.

A glass of chardonnay or pinot grigio for a perfect wine pairing.

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Conclusion: A Dish That Delivers Every Time

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food — rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare. Whether you're feeding a family or impressing dinner guests, this

 one-pan wonder offers gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try tonight, and you'll see why it’s destined to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!