Name: Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced; 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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A luxurious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms in a silky cream sauce. This restaurant-quality meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. The combination of savory mushrooms, bright asparagus, and juicy chicken creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy sauce brings everything together, coating each piece of pasta beautifully. It's a one-pan wonder that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for everyday dinners. Best of all, it's ready in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

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

Penne pasta forms the hearty base of this dish, with its cylinder shape and ridges that capture the creamy sauce perfectly. Any medium-sized pasta with texture works well here - rotini or fusilli would be excellent alternatives.

Olive oil provides the foundation for sautéing, adding a subtle fruity note that complements the other ingredients without overwhelming them. Any good quality olive oil you have on hand will work wonderfully.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts offer lean protein that takes on the flavors of the sauce beautifully. You could substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor if you prefer dark meat, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken added at the end.

Cremini or white mushrooms contribute an earthy, umami depth that makes this dish especially satisfying. Their meaty texture adds substance to the pasta, and they absorb the flavors of the sauce. Button mushrooms work perfectly, but you could upgrade to shiitakes or a mushroom medley for even more complexity.

Asparagus brings a fresh, spring-like quality and slight crunch that balances the creaminess of the sauce. Choose spears of medium thickness for the best texture - too thin and they might overcook, too thick and they might remain too firm.

Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that ties all the flavors together. Fresh is preferable for its vibrant flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch.

Heavy cream creates the luxurious, velvety sauce that defines this pasta dish. Its rich texture coats each ingredient beautifully, though half-and-half could work as a lighter alternative.

Chicken broth adds depth and savory notes while thinning the cream to the perfect consistency. It infuses the sauce with subtle flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Parmesan cheese brings salty, nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated yields the best flavor and melting properties, but pre-grated will certainly work.

Dried thyme or Italian seasoning provides aromatic herb notes that elevate the dish from simple to special. These dried herbs infuse the sauce with their essence during the brief cooking time.

Fresh parsley (optional) adds a pop of color and fresh, bright finish to the dish. Its subtle flavor helps cut through the richness of the cream sauce.

Directions

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender and mushrooms release their moisture.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Stir in Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Return cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta well with the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 4 generous servings, making it perfect for a family dinner. It requires just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 30 minutes from start to finish. Each serving contains approximately 550 calories, providing a satisfying meal that balances protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and double the mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Seafood Twist: Replace chicken with shrimp or scallops for an elegant seafood variation. Cook the seafood just until opaque to avoid overcooking.

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the garlic for a spicy version that adds heat to the creamy sauce.

Winter Greens: Substitute spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for the asparagus during colder months when asparagus isn't in season.

Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and increase the chicken broth slightly for a lighter but still creamy sauce.

Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap the regular penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.

Protein Boost: Add white beans or pancetta for additional protein and flavor dimensions.

Storage/Reheating

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken considerably when cold, so proper reheating is key to restoring its creamy texture.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, then warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave individual portions at 70% power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the cream sauce can separate and the pasta and vegetables may become mushy when thawed.

For meal prep, you can prepare the components separately: cook the pasta and store it separately from the sauce, chicken, and vegetables. Combine them just before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

While heavy cream provides the richest texture, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with 1-2 tablespoons of flour (whisked in when adding the liquid). The sauce won't be as decadent but will still be delicious. Avoid skim or low-fat milk as they may result in a thin sauce.

What can I use instead of asparagus?

Broccoli, green beans, or peas make excellent substitutes for asparagus. Each will bring its own character to the dish while maintaining the color and textural contrast. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as these vegetables have different cooking requirements.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but with some adjustments. For best results, slightly undercook the pasta and store the components separately: pasta in one container, and the chicken with sauce and vegetables in another. When reheating, combine them and add a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred or dice the chicken and add it to the sauce at the same time you would return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing enough time to warm through.

How can I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, increase the proportion of vegetables to pasta, and use slightly less Parmesan cheese. You could also use a whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrition.

What wine pairs well with this pasta dish?

A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir won't overpower the delicate flavors of the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes would be delicious additions. Add firmer vegetables when you cook the mushrooms and asparagus, and add softer or quicker-cooking vegetables like tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version using canned full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavor profile will change somewhat, but it will still be creamy and delicious.

What can I do if my sauce is too thin?

If your sauce isn't thickening properly, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional minute until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I make this spicy?

Definitely! Add red pepper flakes to taste when you add the garlic, or incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or a tablespoon of harissa paste to the sauce for a more complex heat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne represents comfort food at its finest – a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and indulgent sauce that satisfies without overwhelming. The combination of earthy mushrooms, bright asparagus, and tender chicken creates a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly simple to prepare at home.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It can be adapted to what you have on hand, modified to suit dietary preferences, and even dressed up for special occasions. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends for a casual gathering, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

The next time you're craving something creamy, comforting, and complete with vegetables and protein, remember this recipe. In just 30 minutes, you can create a meal that feels like a special treat but requires minimal effort – the perfect solution for busy food lovers who refuse to compromise on flavor.