Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. Tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms come together in a creamy, garlicky sauce, all served over perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is rich in flavor yet light enough to be enjoyed on any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, and the combination of ingredients creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside. Season with garlic powder and onion powder, and stir to coat.
Add the mushrooms and asparagus to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the asparagus is slightly crisp-tender.
Lower the heat and pour in your choice of cream (heavy cream or a lighter alternative) to create the sauce. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Add more vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to bring a little heat to the dish.
Use different pasta: If you don’t have penne, feel free to substitute with other pasta types like rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli.
Swap the chicken: For a lighter option, try swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian dish.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave the dish or warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen asparagus?

Yes, you can use frozen asparagus if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the pan.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta used.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time by chopping the chicken and vegetables and storing them in the fridge. Then, cook the dish when you’re ready to serve.

4. What if I don’t have garlic powder and onion powder?

If you don’t have garlic powder and onion powder, you can substitute with fresh minced garlic and onion, or even garlic and onion paste. Just sauté them with the chicken for a more intense flavor.

5. Can I use a non-dairy cream?

Yes! You can use plant-based creams, like coconut cream, almond milk, or cashew cream, to make this recipe dairy-free.

6. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Definitely! Adding grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or even cream cheese to the sauce can make it even richer and more decadent.

7. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, use a low-fat or non-dairy cream alternative, and reduce the amount of olive oil used for cooking.

8. Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the cream sauce may separate when reheated. To freeze, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.

9. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more cream or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

10. Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes! For a vegetarian version, you can swap the chicken for mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.

Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the perfect meal for those who crave a rich, flavorful pasta dish without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is quick, simple, and packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious creamy sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep for the week. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting and delicious pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy!