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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to brown.
- Stir in asparagus and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.
- Sprinkle in red pepper flakes if using.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta, tossing to combine.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- 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! 🍝