The savory aroma of Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne wafts through the air, a delightful invitation that promises a dance of flavors on your palate. Imagine tender chicken mingling with earthy mushrooms and vibrant asparagus, all enveloped in a lush, creamy sauce that clings to perfectly cooked penne. This dish isnāt just a meal; itās an experience meant to be savored.
As you prepare this culinary masterpiece, you may find yourself reminiscing about family gatherings or cozy dinners shared with friends. Itās the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your stomach, perfect for any occasionābe it a casual weeknight dinner or a fancy dinner party. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will leave you and your guests raving for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is quick and easy to whip up, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The rich flavors blend beautifully, creating a dish thatās both comforting and elegant
- The colorful ingredients make it visually appealing on any plate
- Itās versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences with simple modifications!
Ingredients for Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Hereās what youāll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts provide the protein base; feel free to adjust based on how many youāre feeding.
- Fresh Asparagus: Opt for bright green spears; they add crunch and color that elevates the dishās appeal.
- Mushrooms: Use cremini or button mushrooms for their rich flavor; slice them for even cooking.
- Penne Pasta: Cook until al dente; this pasta shape holds sauce beautifully and adds texture.
- Heavy Cream: Provides the luscious creaminess that brings everything together; donāt skimp on this!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives an aromatic kick; chop finely for maximum flavor infusion.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh parmesan adds depth; sprinkle generously right before serving.
For the Seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors; use freshly cracked pepper for extra zing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes.
SautƩ the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter or oil. Add diced chicken breasts and season them well with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic as soon as the chicken is nearly done cooking. SautĆ© until fragrantāaround one minuteāand enjoy the delicious smell filling your kitchen.
Incorporate Veggies: Stir in sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Cook until asparagus turns bright green and tender, about 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Create the Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet while lowering the heat slightly; stir well to combine with chicken and vegetables. Let it simmer gently for about two minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta: Drain the penne pasta once cooked but reserve some pasta water. Add cooked penne to the skillet along with Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.
Finish & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm in bowls garnished with extra Parmesan and perhaps a sprig of parsleyāa feast fit for royalty!
Enjoy every creamy bite of this Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penneāitās bound to become a beloved staple in your home!
You Must Know
- This delectable Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is not just a meal; itās an experience
- With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, it transforms a simple dinner into a gourmet occasion
- The best part?
- You can whip it up in no time, impressing everyone without breaking a sweat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in those juicy flavors. While the chicken gets golden brown, cook the penne until al dente. Once the pasta is ready, toss everything together with the sauce and veggies for a harmonious blend.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out asparagus for your favorite green veggie like broccoli or snap peas. Try adding different cheeses or herbs to elevate the flavor profile. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten up the dish beautifully!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest before slicing; this keeps it juicy and tender
- When cooking pasta, donāt forget to salt the water for flavor
- Use fresh herbs whenever possible to elevate your dish to new heights!
Sometimes, I whip up this Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne for family gatherings, and they rave about it! Itās like magic when you see everyone coming back for seconds and thirds!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne?
To prepare Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne, you will need boneless chicken breasts, penne pasta, fresh asparagus, mushrooms, garlic, olive oil, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Additionally, having salt and pepper on hand to taste is essential. You can also add herbs like thyme or parsley to enhance the flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful dish that brings together the earthiness of mushrooms and the freshness of asparagus.
How long does it take to cook Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne?
The total time required to cook Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is approximately 30-40 minutes. This includes 10-15 minutes for prepping the ingredients and about 20-25 minutes for cooking. Itās a quick recipe thatās perfect for busy weeknights. By following the steps carefully, you can serve a delicious meal in no time while ensuring that each component is perfectly cooked.
Can I make Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne ahead of time. To do this, cook the pasta and chicken separately, then combine them with sautĆ©ed mushrooms and asparagus when ready to serve. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When youāre ready to eat, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Is Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne suitable for meal prep?
Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is an excellent choice for meal prep. The dish stores well in the refrigerator and maintains its flavor when reheated. Prepare a larger batch at the beginning of the week and portion it into individual servings. This way, youāll have healthy meals ready to go during your busy days without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Conclusion for Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne:
In summary, Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne combines tender chicken with flavorful mushrooms and fresh asparagus over al dente penne pasta. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also healthy and satisfying. By utilizing simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques, youāll create a delightful meal that pleases everyone at the table. Enjoy this dish as part of your weekly meal rotation for an easy yet impressive dining experience!

Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh asparagus in a creamy sauce over al dente penne pasta. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, delivering a comforting blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. With vibrant colors and rich textures, this meal is destined to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup sliced cremini or button mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic; sautƩ for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add sliced mushrooms and asparagus; cook for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for about 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine cooked penne with the mixture, adding Parmesan cheese. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 635
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or basil. - Substitute asparagus with broccoli or snap peas for variation. - A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish.