Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

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This pasta dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Tossed with penne, it’s a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet fresh.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 cups mushrooms (sliced)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add mushrooms and cook until browned. Add asparagus and garlic, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Make sauce: Pour in chicken broth and cream. Stir, then add Parmesan and Italian herbs. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Combine: Return chicken to skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss until coated in sauce.
  6. Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Extra richness: Add a splash of white wine when sautéing mushrooms.
  • Lighter option: Use milk instead of cream and reduce Parmesan slightly.
  • Protein swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.

This dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The penne provides a sturdy base, ideal for holding the creamy sauce. Chicken adds protein and heartiness, while mushrooms bring earthy depth. Asparagus contributes freshness and a slight crunch, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.

The sauce is the star: a blend of cream, broth, garlic, and Parmesan that clings to every piece of pasta. Italian herbs enhance the flavor, while parsley adds brightness at the end. It’s indulgent yet approachable, making it a great weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests.

This recipe is versatile—you can swap proteins, adjust the creaminess, or add extras like sun-dried tomatoes or spinach. It’s also easy to scale up for gatherings. Ultimately, it’s a comforting pasta dish that delivers both richness and freshness in every bite.

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