Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus is a restaurant-quality dish made easily at home. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor from tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus. Perfect for a comforting dinner!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Chicken & Sauce:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to brown.
3. Stir in asparagus and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.
4. Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if using.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat in the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta, tossing to combine.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
2. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine, like Chardonnay.

Tips & Variations

• Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Add More Flavor: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of lemon juice.
• Protein Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or more vegetables.

Final Thoughts

This Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus is a deliciously rich and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for any occasion.

Try it tonight and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite! 🍝