Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate—comforting, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying. Picture perfectly cooked penne pasta tossed in a rich, creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor from tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus. It’s a fantastic weeknight meal that comes together in just about 35 minutes, which is perfect when you’re craving something special but don’t have hours to spare. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this has become a staple in my home. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible, and it’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s cook that penne pasta! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil—trust me, the salt helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. Once it’s bubbling, add the 8 oz of penne and cook according to the package instructions, which is usually about 10-12 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. You want it tender but still with a bit of bite!
When the pasta is ready, drain it in a colander, but don’t rinse it! Rinsing washes away all those lovely starches that help the sauce cling to the pasta later. Set it aside for now, and let’s move on to the fun part!
Sautéing the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic (2 cloves) and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—oh, that smell is heavenly! Next, add the diced chicken breast (1 lb) to the pan. Cook it for around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nice and golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink in the center.
Now, it’s time to add the mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) and chopped asparagus (1 cup). Cook these veggies for another 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant. The colors alone are enough to make your heart sing!
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Now comes the magic part! Lower the heat slightly and pour in 2 cups of heavy cream. Bring this to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. The cream will start to bubble softly, and that’s when you want to add in the grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If it seems a little thick, don’t worry; just add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This creamy goodness is what dreams are made of!
Combining Ingredients
Finally, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked penne to the skillet and mix everything well so that each piece of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give it a final stir. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before serving. And there you have it—your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is ready to be devoured! Serve it hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly delicious with a rich and creamy sauce that’s hard to resist.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms for a satisfying meal.
- A comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, perfect for family dinners.
- Flexibility to customize with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives.
- Nutrient-packed with protein and fiber, while still being indulgent.
- One-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.
Tips for Success
Alright, let me share some of my favorite pro tips to make your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne absolutely perfect! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your dish.
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even a blend of Greek yogurt and milk. It’ll still be creamy but with fewer calories!
- Veggie Power: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your vegetables! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini would be delicious additions. Just toss them in during the sauté step for a colorful twist.
- Cheese Variety: While Parmesan is a classic, feel free to mix in some mozzarella or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for added flavor. Just remember to adjust the saltiness since different cheeses have different salt levels.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; this helps it brown nicely instead of steaming. If you need to, cook in batches!
- Seasoning Matters: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste as you go—seasoning at different stages really helps build that depth of flavor.
- Pasta Timing: To avoid overcooked pasta, I suggest setting a timer for a minute less than the package instructions. It’ll finish cooking perfectly in the sauce!
- Let It Sit: If you can resist, allow the dish to sit for a few minutes off the heat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress with your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne. Happy cooking!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are plenty of delicious variations you can try with this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! Here are some ideas that I absolutely love:
- Protein Swaps: Instead of chicken, you could use shrimp or even diced turkey. Both options will pair beautifully with the creamy sauce!
- Veggie Delight: Get creative with your vegetables! Try adding spinach, kale, or bell peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrition. Just toss them in during the sautéing step!
- Mushroom Medley: Switch up the mushrooms! Use a combination of cremini, shiitake, or even portobello mushrooms for a richer flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley for an aromatic twist. Just sprinkle them in towards the end for a burst of freshness!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while making the sauce. It’ll give your dish a delightful zing!
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or feta for a tangy finish. Just be sure to adjust the salt accordingly!
These variations not only keep things exciting but also let you adapt the dish to your mood or what you have on hand. So go ahead, let your creativity shine, and enjoy your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne in new and delicious ways!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is super easy. Just let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tight to lock in that creamy goodness!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend the stovetop method for the best results. Simply place the leftover penne in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or a little extra cream to help loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Stir it gently until everything is heated through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it! Just put a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of liquid, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate (to avoid splatters), and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.
And there you have it! Enjoy your delicious leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s packed into each delicious serving of my creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne? Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for one serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But knowing that you’re getting a hearty dose of protein and flavor with each bite is always a win in my book!
FAQ Section
Can I use different pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding that creamy sauce, you can definitely swap in your favorite pasta shape, like fusilli or farfalle. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can! Just prepare everything up until combining the pasta with the sauce. Store the separate components in airtight containers in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, reheat them together for a quick meal!
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
No problem! Simply omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu. You could also add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to make it heartier.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works great! You could also use a mixture of Greek yogurt and milk for a creamy texture without all the calories. Just keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop!
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne: 5-Layered Bliss
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add mushrooms and asparagus; cook until tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked penne; mix well to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half and half.
- Customize by adding other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne
