Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne

This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich, flavorful pasta dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a creamy parmesan sauce. It’s the perfect comfort meal with a balance of protein, vegetables, and pasta, making it hearty yet satisfying without being overly heavy.

The savory, umami-packed mushrooms enhance the dish with depth, while the asparagus adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast. The parmesan cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the penne pasta perfectly, ensuring every bite is packed with rich, creamy goodness. This dish feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions.

With its easy-to-follow steps, minimal ingredients, and quick cooking time, this pasta dish is an excellent go-to recipe for home cooks of any skill level. Whether you’re making dinner for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a small gathering, this dish delivers big flavors without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Perfectly Balanced Flavors & Textures

• Creamy & Savory – The buttery parmesan sauce clings to the pasta, giving it a rich, creamy coating without feeling too heavy.
• Tender & Juicy Chicken – Lightly dredging the chicken in seasoned flour before cooking creates a subtle crust that locks in moisture.
• Earthy Mushrooms – Their deep umami flavor adds depth and enhances the overall dish.
• Crisp Asparagus – A fresh, slightly crunchy vegetable that contrasts the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Al Dente Pasta – The penne maintains a firm bite, ensuring the pasta doesn’t become mushy.

Fast & Easy to Make

• Cooks in under 40 minutes – Making it perfect for busy nights.
• Uses one skillet for the chicken & vegetables – Less cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Customizable with different ingredients – Easily adaptable for various diets and preferences.

Comfort Food Meets Nutritious Ingredients

While this dish is creamy and indulgent, it also includes protein-packed chicken, fiber-rich asparagus, and nutrient-dense mushrooms. It’s a balanced meal that provides satisfying flavors while still being wholesome.

The Inspiration Behind This Dish

A Fusion of Italian & Modern Comfort Food

This dish combines elements of classic Italian creamy pasta dishes with modern, nutritious ingredients to create a flavor-packed, well-balanced meal. Inspired by Alfredo pasta, creamy chicken primavera, and mushroom parmesan sauces, this dish captures the best of each of these classics while adding its own unique spin.

Instead of a traditional Alfredo sauce, which relies heavily on butter and cream, this recipe uses parmesan cheese and butter to create a lighter yet still decadent sauce. The addition of fresh asparagus and mushrooms ensures that the dish remains bright and flavorful rather than overly rich.

Why This Dish Works for Any Occasion

• Quick enough for weeknight dinners – Minimal prep and fast cooking time make this a convenient option for busy nights.
• Fancy enough for guests – The combination of flavors and textures feels restaurant-worthy.
• Perfect for meal prep – It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
• Great for family-friendly meals – The mild, creamy flavors make it kid-friendly, while the addition of vegetables adds a nutritious boost.

How to Choose the Best Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

The quality of the ingredients directly impacts the flavor and texture of the dish. Here’s how to select the best ingredients for an unforgettable creamy pasta experience.

Chicken – The Protein Powerhouse

The chicken should be tender, juicy, and flavorful, and choosing the right cut and preparation method is key.

• Best Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Alternative: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and richer flavor.
• Why It Works: Lightly dredging the chicken in seasoned flour before cooking helps seal in juices and adds a delicate crust that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

Pro Tip: If using chicken thighs, cook them a little longer since they have more fat and take slightly longer to reach tenderness.

Mushrooms – The Earthy, Umami Element

Mushrooms add depth, texture, and rich umami flavor to the dish.

• Best Choice: Cremini mushrooms (baby bellas) – More flavorful than white button mushrooms.
• Alternative: Shiitake mushrooms for a bolder umami flavor, or portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture.
• Why It Works: Mushrooms soak up the butter and garlic, creating a savory, slightly caramelized flavor that enhances the dish.

Pro Tip: Sauté mushrooms until they release their moisture and develop a golden brown color—this intensifies their flavor.

Asparagus – The Fresh, Crisp Contrast

Asparagus brings a bright, slightly crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

• Best Choice: Thin, fresh asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces.
• Alternative: Broccoli florets or green beans for a different vegetable component.
• Why It Works: The mildly grassy, slightly sweet flavor of asparagus complements the earthy mushrooms and creamy parmesan sauce.

Pro Tip: Add asparagus towards the end of cooking to keep it slightly crisp and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Penne Pasta – The Perfect Shape for Holding Sauce

The pasta should hold the sauce well and remain firm after cooking.

• Best Choice: Penne pasta – The ridged shape helps capture the sauce in every bite.
• Alternative: Rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli for a different texture.
• Why It Works: Short, sturdy pasta ensures that every bite has a perfect balance of sauce, chicken, and vegetables.

Pro Tip: Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Garlic – The Aromatic Base

Garlic enhances the savory flavors and adds a delicious depth to the dish.

• Best Choice: Freshly minced garlic for the boldest flavor.
• Alternative: Garlic powder (but fresh is always best).
• Why It Works: Cooking garlic in butter releases its natural sweetness, making the dish fragrant and flavorful.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking garlic—it can become bitter if browned too much.

Parmesan Cheese – The Salty, Creamy Component

Parmesan brings a salty, nutty richness to the sauce.

• Best Choice: Freshly grated parmesan for the richest, smoothest melt.
• Alternative: Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more intense flavor.
• Why It Works: The cheese naturally thickens the sauce, making it creamy without the need for heavy cream.

Pro Tip: Add parmesan cheese gradually to avoid clumping.

Butter – The Secret to a Silky Sauce

Butter enhances the sauce, adding richness and smooth texture.

• Best Choice: Unsalted butter, so you can control the saltiness.
• Alternative: Olive oil for a lighter version.
• Why It Works: Butter helps create an ultra-creamy consistency when melted with parmesan.

Pro Tip: Melt butter over medium heat to avoid burning.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection

The foundation of any great pasta dish is properly cooked pasta. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and bland, while undercooked pasta may be too firm and not absorb the sauce properly.

How to Cook Penne for the Best Texture

1. Fill a large pot with water—use at least 4 quarts of water for every 8 ounces of pasta to ensure that the noodles don’t stick together.
2. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the pasta. Adding pasta to lukewarm water results in uneven cooking.
3. Generously salt the water—this enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. A good rule of thumb is to add 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water.
4. Add the penne pasta and stir immediately to prevent sticking.
5. Cook for 7-9 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente—firm but tender when bitten.
6. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta later.
7. Drain the pasta and set aside. Do not rinse—it washes away the starch that helps the sauce stick.

Pro Tip: If the pasta is done before the sauce, toss it with a little olive oil or butter to keep it from clumping together.

Step 2: Prepare & Cook the Chicken

The chicken should be juicy, tender, and well-seasoned with a slight crispiness on the outside. To achieve this, we’ll dredge it lightly in flour before cooking, which helps seal in moisture and create a subtle crust.

How to Cook Juicy, Flavorful Chicken

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness—this ensures that they cook evenly without drying out.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix ¼ cup flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off excess flour.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
6. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board, let it rest for a couple of minutes, then slice into 1-inch cubes or thin strips.

Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary to allow proper browning.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Cooking the vegetables properly is key to maintaining their flavor, texture, and color.

How to Cook Mushrooms & Asparagus to Perfection

1. Using the same skillet from the chicken, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, add ½ cup sliced mushrooms and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they release moisture and start to brown.
3. Add 3 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the asparagus (cut into 2-inch pieces) and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the natural flavors.

Pro Tip: For extra caramelization, avoid stirring the mushrooms too much—let them sit for a minute or two before stirring to achieve that golden brown color.

Step 4: Bring Everything Together

Now that each component is cooked, it’s time to combine everything into a creamy, flavorful dish.

How to Create a Rich, Velvety Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium-low and return the sliced chicken to the skillet.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta, tossing it gently to distribute evenly with the chicken and vegetables.
3. Gradually sprinkle in ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to allow it to melt and coat the pasta.
4. If the mixture seems too dry, slowly add ¼ cup of reserved pasta water, stirring to create a smoother sauce.
5. Continue stirring for 1-2 minutes until everything is well-coated and creamy.

Pro Tip: If you want a richer, creamier sauce, add ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at this stage.

Step 5: Taste & Adjust the Seasoning

Before serving, it’s important to taste and make any final adjustments.

How to Balance the Flavors

• If the pasta needs more saltiness, add a pinch of salt or a bit more parmesan.
• If the flavors need brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to enhance the freshness of the asparagus.
• If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little more pasta water or cream until the desired consistency is reached.
• For extra heat and depth, sprinkle in a dash of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked black pepper.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some great serving ideas:

Garnishes & Toppings

• Extra Parmesan Cheese – A final sprinkle of grated or shaved parmesan makes the dish extra flavorful.
• Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle a pinch over the top.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread – The perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad – A simple arugula or Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes add an extra serving of veggies.

Wine Pairing Suggestions

• White Wine: A Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy, garlicky sauce.
• Red Wine: If you prefer red, a light Pinot Noir complements the mushrooms beautifully.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even though this dish is easy to make, small mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

1. Overcooking the Pasta

• Problem: Soft, mushy pasta that doesn’t hold up in the sauce.
• Solution: Cook until just al dente, then toss immediately with the sauce to finish cooking.

2. Dry or Tough Chicken

• Problem: Chicken turns out dry and chewy.
• Solution: Pound chicken to even thickness before cooking and avoid overcooking past 165°F.

3. Mushrooms Turning Watery

• Problem: Mushrooms release too much liquid, making the sauce thin.
• Solution: Cook over medium-high heat and avoid stirring too often to allow moisture to evaporate.

4. Sauce Too Thick or Too Thin

• Problem: The dish is too dry or too watery.
• Solution: Adjust with pasta water, cream, or extra parmesan to achieve the right consistency.

How to Properly Store Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne

This dish tastes best when served fresh, but it can also be stored and enjoyed later if done correctly. Since it contains a creamy sauce, pasta, and chicken, proper storage is crucial to maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating.

Short-Term Storage (Up to 3 Days in the Refrigerator)

1. Allow the pasta to cool slightly before storing—do not let it sit out for more than 2 hours.
2. Transfer the pasta into an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
3. Store in the coldest part of the refrigerator, away from foods with strong odors.
4. For best results, eat within 2-3 days.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage (Up to 2 Months)

While freezing pasta dishes with cream-based sauces is not always ideal, it can still be done with some modifications:

1. Let the dish cool completely before freezing—hot food can cause condensation and ice crystals, leading to freezer burn.
2. Portion the pasta into individual servings for easy reheating.
3. Store in freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
4. If possible, freeze the pasta and sauce separately to maintain the best texture.
5. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Preventing Freezer Burn

• Use plastic wrap over the pasta before sealing the container.
• Remove as much air as possible from freezer bags.
• If using a container, place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper directly on top of the pasta before sealing.

How to Reheat Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Without Drying It Out

Reheating pasta can be tricky because it tends to dry out as it sits in the fridge. Here’s how to reheat it properly while maintaining its moisture and creamy texture.

Reheating in the Microwave (Best for Single Servings)

1. Transfer the pasta to a microwave-safe dish.
2. Add 1-2 tablespoons of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
3. Cover with a damp paper towel to trap steam and prevent drying.
4. Heat on medium power (50-70%) for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. If needed, sprinkle extra parmesan cheese before serving.

Reheating on the Stovetop (Best for Large Portions)

1. Heat a nonstick skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or heavy cream to rehydrate the sauce.
3. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add a little extra butter or parmesan cheese to enhance the creaminess.

Reheating in the Oven (Best for Meal Prep or Large Gatherings)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
3. Add ¼ cup of liquid (cream, broth, or water) to prevent drying out.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, let the pasta thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

Best Ways to Customize Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne

This dish is incredibly versatile, meaning you can adjust the ingredients and flavors based on your preferences. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

1. Make It Extra Creamy

• Add ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half for a richer sauce.
• Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream cheese for a velvety texture.
• Replace some of the parmesan cheese with gruyère or fontina for a deeper, nutty flavor.

2. Add More Vegetables

• Spinach or kale – Stir in at the end for extra greens.
• Sun-dried tomatoes – Adds a tangy, slightly sweet contrast to the creamy sauce.
• Bell peppers or zucchini – Sauté with the mushrooms for added texture and color.

3. Boost the Protein

• Shrimp – Swap chicken for sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Italian sausage – Adds a bold, slightly spicy flavor.
• Tofu or chickpeas – A great vegetarian protein substitute.

4. Make It Spicy

• Add ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle heat.
• Stir in a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Garnish with sliced jalapeños or chili oil for an extra kick.

5. Use a Different Type of Pasta

• Whole wheat pasta for a fiber-rich alternative.
• Gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly version.
• Tortellini or ravioli for an even more indulgent meal.

6. Create a Lighter Version

• Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of pasta.
• Replace butter with olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
• Use low-fat parmesan cheese for fewer calories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About This Recipe

1. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can cook all the components ahead of time and store them separately.

• Cook the chicken and vegetables, then refrigerate.
• Cook the pasta and toss it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• When ready to eat, reheat everything together with a splash of liquid to refresh the sauce.

2. Can I Make This Recipe Without Cream?

Yes! The parmesan cheese and butter alone create a creamy texture, but you can add milk or a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) for extra thickness without using cream.

3. How Do I Keep the Pasta from Sticking Together?

• Cook pasta in plenty of salted water.
• Drain well but do not rinse—this keeps the natural starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
• Toss with a small amount of olive oil or butter if making ahead.

4. Can I Use Frozen Asparagus Instead of Fresh?

Yes! If using frozen asparagus:

• Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Add it toward the end of cooking since it’s already partially cooked.

5. What Can I Use Instead of Parmesan Cheese?

• Pecorino Romano – Sharper and saltier than parmesan.
• Asiago or Gruyère – Adds a nuttier depth to the sauce.
• Nutritional yeast – A great dairy-free alternative with a cheesy flavor.

6. What Other Meats Can I Use Instead of Chicken?

• Turkey breast – Similar texture but leaner.
• Salmon – Adds a rich, buttery contrast.
• Pancetta or bacon – A smoky, crispy alternative.

7. How Do I Prevent Mushrooms from Getting Soggy?

• Cook over medium-high heat to let moisture evaporate.
• Avoid crowding the pan—mushrooms should be in a single layer.
• Don’t add salt too early, as it draws out moisture.

Final Thoughts – Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is a perfect blend of rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting textures. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that you can make easily at home, with endless ways to customize it. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus, this pasta dish offers an incredible balance of indulgence and freshness. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation!

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Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne

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• Author: Emily
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is a deliciously rich and satisfying pasta dish featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and a creamy parmesan sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with bold flavors, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 8 ounces dry penne pasta
• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided

For the Vegetables & Sauce:

• ½ cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 pound asparagus (trimmed & cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook 7-9 minutes until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare & Cook the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, coating both sides.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into 1-inch cubes or thin strips.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms & Asparagus

1. In the same skillet, add remaining butter over medium heat.
2. Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add asparagus and sauté for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Lower heat to medium-low and return the sliced chicken to the skillet.
2. Stir in the cooked penne pasta and parmesan cheese, tossing everything together.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add ¼ cup reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring until everything is well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

1. Sprinkle extra parmesan cheese and black pepper on top.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• For extra creaminess, add ¼ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half.
• Substitutions: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu instead of chicken.
• For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
• Best served fresh but stores well for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 90mg