Amazing Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Delight

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by Lisa

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Cooking is a lot like magic—one moment you’re just mixing a few ordinary ingredients, and the next, you’ve conjured up something downright enchanting. Enter my Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, where creamy sauce meets hearty penne pasta in a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. Imagine the rich aroma of sautéed garlic mingling with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant asparagus, all wrapped up in a velvety sauce that practically begs to be twirled into every mouthful.

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Picture this: it’s a cozy evening, and you’re craving something comforting yet fancy enough to impress dinner guests. That’s when I whip out this delightful dish. You can almost hear the applause from your loved ones as you serve it up, and trust me, there’s nothing quite like the joy of watching them dig in. Whether it’s an intimate family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to steal the spotlight—and maybe even the last bite!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

  • This amazing Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Ingredients for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
  • Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
  • Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or regular penne; both cook beautifully and hold onto that creamy sauce.
  • Fresh Asparagus: Look for bright green stalks with firm tips; they add a lovely crunch to the dish.
  • Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms work well; their earthy flavor complements the dish perfectly.

For the Sauce:

  • Heavy Cream: This is what makes our sauce creamy and dreamy; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if you’re feeling lighthearted.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds depth; skip the pre-grated stuff if you can!
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over salt levels.
  • Olive Oil: A splash of good quality olive oil enhances flavors while keeping everything moist.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients so you’re not running around like a headless chicken during cooking (trust me). Chop your asparagus into bite-sized pieces, slice your mushrooms thinly, and mince that fresh garlic.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about eight minutes. Drain it well but don’t rinse; we want that starchy goodness!

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the skillet. Cook for about six minutes per side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Create Flavor Town

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—more flavor!), add more olive oil if necessary. Toss in the minced garlic first until fragrant (30 seconds tops), then add sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté until they’re tender—about five minutes should do it.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Pour in heavy cream along with chicken broth while scraping any flavorful bits off the bottom of the skillet (the brown stuff is gold!). Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted into creamy perfection.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add your cooked penne back into that creamy mushroom mixture along with sliced chicken. Toss everything together gently until well-coated in that luscious sauce.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra Parmesan if desired for that Instagram-worthy finish!

And there you have it—your very own Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! Serve it warm alongside crusty bread or perhaps even a nice salad if you’re feeling fancy!

You Must Know About Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

  • This amazing Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors, then while it’s resting, cook the pasta until al dente. Next, sauté the mushrooms and asparagus until tender, and finally combine everything with the creamy sauce for a dish that sings!

Add Your Touch to Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Feel free to customize your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! Swap in broccoli instead of asparagus, use gluten-free penne, or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. The possibilities are endless!

Storing & Reheating Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

To store your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to keep it moist.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

  • This amazing Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

When cooking pasta, remember to reserve some pasta water! It’s liquid gold for adjusting the sauce consistency later.

Use fresh asparagus to get that crunchy texture; frozen ones just won’t cut it in this creamy delight!

Keep an eye on your chicken while searing; overcooked chicken is sad chicken, and nobody wants that!

I once made this dish for friends who were skeptical about mushrooms. They ended up going back for seconds—now that’s a win!

FAQs About Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

What is Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a delightful pasta dish that combines tender chicken pieces, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms in a rich, creamy sauce. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a balanced meal with protein and vegetables. The penne pasta serves as the perfect vessel to soak up the luscious sauce. It’s an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering both flavor and comfort in every bite.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?

Preparing Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. This includes time for cooking the chicken, boiling the pasta, and making the creamy sauce. The quick preparation makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights while still being impressive enough for guests. With some basic kitchen skills, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.

Can I make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne ahead of time! To do this, cook the pasta al dente and store it separately from the sauce. Combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture. You can also reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore creaminess. This makes it a practical choice for meal prep!

What variations can I try with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?

There are several delightful variations you can explore with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne. For instance, you can substitute shrimp or tofu for chicken for different protein options. Additionally, swapping out asparagus for seasonal vegetables like spinach or broccoli adds variety. You could also experiment with different types of cheese or add spices to enhance flavor profiles further. These adaptations allow you to enjoy this dish in numerous ways!

Conclusion for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

In conclusion, Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is an exquisite dish that balances flavor and nutrition effortlessly. With its creamy texture paired with tender chicken and fresh veggies, it stands out as a family favorite. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoying this delicious pasta will leave you craving more!

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Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne


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  • Author: platesdaily
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

Description

Indulge in this delightful Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne, featuring tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce for an unforgettable meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups penne pasta
  • 1 cup fresh asparagus, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Chop asparagus into bite-sized pieces, slice mushrooms thinly, and mince garlic.
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook penne according to package instructions until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add sliced mushrooms and asparagus; cook for about five minutes until tender.
  5. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping bits off the bottom of the skillet. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted into a creamy sauce.
  6. Combine Everything: Add cooked penne back into the skillet along with sliced chicken. Toss gently until everything is well-coated with sauce.
  7. Serve: Transfer to plates and sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately one cup (250g)
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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