Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

This Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is a luxurious and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. The smooth, velvety sauce cloaks every bite in rich flavors, creating a truly satisfying meal that’s ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Every element in this dish is thoughtfully combined to offer a balanced taste and texture, from the protein-packed chicken to the vibrant vegetables and comforting pasta. It’s a foolproof way to impress your taste buds and guests alike with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Penne Pasta (450 g / 1 lb): Classic tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully, cooked al dente for perfect texture.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (450 g / 1 lb): Tender protein sliced thinly for quick, even cooking that stays juicy.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and prevents sticking while cooking chicken to a golden finish.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of all ingredients.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle depth and warmth to the chicken seasoning.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Provides a creamy base and richness when sautéing vegetables and making the sauce.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brightens the dish with aromatic freshness and subtle pungency.
• Mushrooms (225 g / 8 oz, sliced): Earthy and meaty, they add texture and umami to the creamy sauce.
• Asparagus (1 bunch, trimmed and cut): Crisp, vibrant green vegetable that imparts mild sweetness and crunch.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates a smooth and luscious sauce that envelops the pasta and chicken.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup): Adds flavorful moisture and depth, balancing the cream richness.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): Offers salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Italian Seasoning (½ teaspoon): A blend of herbs that infuse warmth and subtle complexity in the sauce.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese (optional garnish): Enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a savory finishing touch.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil (optional garnish, chopped): Adds brightness and a fresh herbal note for garnish.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. This ensures the pasta has a slight bite and won’t become mushy when tossed with the sauce. Drain well, reserving a small amount of pasta water in case the sauce needs loosening later.

Season and Cook the Chicken

Pat the chicken slices dry, then season evenly with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder if using. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Removing the chicken now allows for a better sear and prevents overcooking when combined with the sauce.

Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant to release its aroma without browning. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and lightly browned, which intensifies their earthy flavor. Stir in asparagus and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until tender-crisp to retain their bright color and slight crunch.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet with vegetables, gently stirring to combine. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning to infuse subtle herbaceous flavor and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth, coating all vegetables perfectly.

Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken slices to the skillet and stir gently to warm through and meld flavors. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it and achieve a more luscious consistency.

Season and Serve

Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens every forkful.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture and prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy chicken penne with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s richness perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle works well with this creamy sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free alternative, though the sauce may be less thick.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Add extra mushrooms or tofu for protein.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can cook components separately ahead of time, but assemble and combine just before serving for best texture.

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Yes, but creamy sauces may change texture when frozen. Thaw gently and reheat with extra cream or broth.

What is the best way to cut asparagus?

Trim the woody ends and cut stems into 1- to 2-inch bite-size pieces for even cooking.

Can I replace chicken with seafood?

Shrimp is an excellent substitute but adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking delicate seafood.

Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

This creamy pasta features tender chicken, mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a rich Parmesan sauce, perfect for flavorful weeknight or special dinner occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course dinner, pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 people

Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large skillet
• 1 pot for boiling pasta
• 1 colander for draining pasta

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder optional

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 8 oz mushrooms sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Extra Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

• Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
• Season chicken slices with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5 to 7 minutes; remove and set aside.
• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add mushrooms and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
• Stir in asparagus and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until tender-crisp.
• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, add Italian seasoning, and simmer gently.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
• Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cooked penne; toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen sauce.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste; serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Add extra ¼ cup cream or cream cheese for a richer sauce.
• Substitute asparagus with spinach, broccoli, or green beans.
• Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood option.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently with milk or cream.