Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

 

If you’re searching for a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, look no further than Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! This delightful pasta dish brings together tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s the perfect combination to make any weeknight dinner feel special. In fact, my family enjoys it so much that it’s become a common request at our dinner table. Plus, it’s simple enough for those busy weeknights when you’re juggling everything else! If you love comforting meals like our classic spaghetti carbonara, you’re in for a treat! Get ready to impress your loved ones with a meal that’s not just quick and easy but also bursting with flavor.

What is Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?

So, what exactly is this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne? It’s a delightful pasta dish that brings together all the comforts of home-cooked goodness with a creamy twist! Imagine twirling your fork through silky penne, coated in a velvety sauce, with mushrooms and asparagus adding a fresh crunch. You might wonder, “Why is it called that?” Well, let’s just say it’s a mouthful that describes every tasty bite! Remember, as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Give this recipe a try, and you might just win over hearts at your dinner table, too!

Why You’ll Love This

There are so many reasons why you’ll fall in love with this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! First, the shining star of this dish is undoubtedly its creamy sauce, which is made using heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a luxurious texture that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. Secondly, cooking at home means you can enjoy this flavorful dish without breaking the bank, saving you money compared to dining out! Lastly, the seasonal ingredients like asparagus and mushrooms not only add freshness but also a vibrant color that makes this dish visually appealing. If you enjoyed our garlic butter shrimp pasta, you’ll definitely want to explore more delicious recipes like this one. The kitchen awaits; let’s get cooking!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is not just delicious—it’s incredibly easy to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients, this dish can be prepared in about 35 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or even a cozy family gathering. It’s creamy, satisfying, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters!

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside for later.
2. Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Add Vegetables: Toss in the sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté them for an additional 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender but still vibrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and ensure everything is well combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, feel free to add a splash of pasta water!
6. Combine: Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another minute to heat through.
7. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every delectable bite!

What to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne With

This creamy pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a loaf of crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For drinks, consider pairing it with a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, for a touch of elegance. The fresh flavors of this dish are sure to shine alongside these easy accompaniments!

Top Tips for Perfecting

To ensure your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have asparagus, substitute with broccoli or spinach for similar freshness.
• Timing Adjustments: For a quicker prep, use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken!
• Avoid Common Mistakes: Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should remain juicy to complement the creamy sauce.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to revive the sauce then serve warm.

FAQs

• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and combine them when ready to serve.
• Can I freeze this recipe? It’s best not to freeze the creamy sauce as it may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies for future meals.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that promises to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Its rich flavors and comforting texture will win over family and friends alike, making dinner time a special occasion. Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds dance with joy! This dish is just waiting to become a cherished memory around your table.