Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

There are some dishes that feel like a loving embrace at the dinner table, and Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is absolutely one of them. Imagine fork-tender penne tangled in a rich, velvety cream sauce with juicy slices of chicken, deeply flavorful mushrooms, and crisp asparagus. Each bite is balanced with a subtle zing of Italian seasoning, the gentle heat of red pepper flakes, and a whisper of parmesan cheese that ties the whole story together. This is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again, whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something special after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is how it transforms simple, everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal. Every component brings something essential to the table, so even the most basic pantry staples shine with their unique personality here.

• Penne pasta: Holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite satisfying.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle earthiness and keeps everything from sticking to the pan.
• Chicken breasts: Brings lean protein and soaks up the creamy, savory flavors.
• Mushrooms: Deliver deep, umami richness and a lovely, juicy texture.
• Asparagus: Offers vibrant green color and a fresh, slightly crisp bite.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce.
• Heavy cream: Creates that silky, luxurious sauce everyone craves.
• Chicken broth: Balances the cream and intensifies the chicken flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that pulls the whole dish together.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a herby, comforting backbone to the flavor profile.
• Salt: Essential for coaxing out all those delicious flavors.
• Black pepper: Delivers just the right amount of subtle, earthy spice.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle touch of heat.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, with just a bit of bite in the center. Don’t forget to taste it! Once cooked, drain and set aside, but reserve a little pasta water for later in case you want to loosen up the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let the chicken sit undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping, so it gets a golden, caramelized crust. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink inside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it nearby — we’ll bring it back soon!

Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Asparagus

In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if it’s looking dry. Toss in your sliced mushrooms and sauté for about three minutes, letting them release their moisture and develop that wonderful savory flavor. Next, add the asparagus pieces and cook for another two minutes until they’re bright green and just tender-crisp. This keeps the veggies vibrant and full of texture in your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for about 30 seconds just until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to gently scrape up any brown bits from the bottom — those are flavor gold! Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you’re going for a gentle kick. Let the sauce bubble softly for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and becomes irresistibly creamy.

Step 5: Finish and Toss Everything Together

Fold the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together over low heat so every piece of pasta gets coated in that dreamy, creamy sauce. If the sauce is a tad too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne piping hot for the coziest, most satisfying meal.

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Garnishes

Enhancing your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is as easy as a sprinkling of extra grated Parmesan, a generous shower of chopped fresh parsley, or a few slivers of lemon zest for brightness. A little drizzle of good olive oil never hurts either! These small touches make the dish look even more inviting and add a final pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta shines on its own, but it’s also wonderful alongside a simple arugula salad with a lemony vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables. If you’re a bread lover, nothing beats a few slices of warm, crusty baguette to mop up every last drop of sauce from your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, try serving the pasta in shallow bowls with a nest of chicken and veggies on top and a gorgeous lemon twist or microgreens for a restaurant feel. Or, divide the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne among small ramekins for an elegant appetizer-sized tasting at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne makes for a terrific lunch the next day. Once cooled, store individual portions in airtight containers in the fridge. The flavors actually meld and get even better after a few hours!

Freezing

While cream-based pastas aren’t always ideal for freezing, you can freeze this dish in a pinch. Just know the sauce may separate slightly after reheating. Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of headspace, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help the sauce regain its silkiness. Alternatively, microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. If the sauce looks a bit separated, a quick stir will usually bring it back together.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for catching all that delicious sauce, feel free to substitute with rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli. Long pasta like fettuccine works too, though the texture will be a bit different.

What can I substitute for asparagus?

If asparagus isn’t available, try using zucchini, snap peas, or even broccoli florets. They’ll all pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and chicken, giving your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne a tasty twist.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra mushrooms or toss in other favorite veggies for a hearty, meatless version that’s every bit as satisfying.

Is it possible to make this sauce lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Reducing or skipping the cheese will also lighten things up without sacrificing too much flavor.

Can I prepare Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne in advance?

You can! Assemble everything except for the final toss with hot pasta, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, warm the sauce and chicken gently, toss with freshly cooked pasta, and enjoy a dish that tastes freshly made.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the kind of comfort food that draws everyone to the table and has them coming back for seconds. The flavors are classic yet irresistible, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. Give it a try and let it become a staple in your own kitchen — you’ll be so glad you did!

Print