Indulge in Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Tonight!

Craving a restaurant-worthy pasta dish that’s bursting with rich, creamy flavors? Look no further than Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus. This delectable recipe combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a luxurious, Parmesan-laced cream sauce. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus

To create this flavor-packed pasta dish, you’ll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (look for button, cremini, or shiitake mushrooms for maximum flavor)
• 1 cup 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 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Techniques for Perfecting Chicken Penne

To ensure your Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus turns out restaurant-quality, it’s important to follow a few key cooking techniques:

First, cook the penne pasta al dente, which means it should have a slight bite to it. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy in the creamy sauce. Next, sauté the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, locking in juiciness. When it comes to the vegetables, be sure to sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and become tender, and cook the asparagus just until it’s bright green and tender-crisp.

Finally, the creamy sauce is the star of the show. By gently simmering the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan, you’ll create a silky, luxurious coating for the pasta and chicken. Tossing everything together at the end ensures every bite is perfectly coated in the decadent sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus

Cook Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.

Cook Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the hot skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil and the butter. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp.

Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Make Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

Add Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.

Serve

Garnish the Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus with fresh, chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy this restaurant-quality pasta dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes!

Nutritional Information and Variations

Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus is a nutrient-dense meal that’s packed with protein from the chicken, fiber from the pasta and vegetables, and healthy fats from the cream and Parmesan. For a healthier twist, you can use whole wheat penne or even substitute the heavy cream with low-fat or plant-based alternatives, such as unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream. Additionally, you can swap the asparagus for other fresh vegetables, like broccoli or bell peppers, to suit your personal preferences.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. For a restaurant-inspired touch, consider serving it alongside a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the creamy, savory flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat penne instead of regular penne, and how will it affect the dish?

Yes, you can definitely use whole wheat penne instead of regular penne. Whole wheat pasta typically has a nuttier flavor and a denser texture, which can add a different depth to your Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus. Keep in mind that whole wheat pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time to achieve the al dente texture. It also tends to absorb more sauce, so you might want to adjust the amount of creamy sauce you prepare to maintain the desired creaminess.

What is the best way to reheat Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus without losing its creaminess?

To reheat Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus without losing its creamy texture, it’s best to use a stovetop method. Place the leftover pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can cause the cream to separate and the pasta to become dry. If you must use a microwave, add a little liquid and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.

How can I make this dish spicier without overpowering the creaminess?

To add some heat to your Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus without overwhelming the dish, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the creamy sauce. Start with a small amount, tasting as you go to find the right balance. Additionally, you can sauté some diced jalapeños or add a splash of hot sauce when cooking the chicken or vegetables. This will infuse the dish with flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.

What type of cheese works best for enhancing the flavor of this dish?

For enhancing the flavor of Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus, Parmesan cheese is a classic choice due to its nutty and savory profile that complements the creaminess of the sauce. You can also mix in some Pecorino Romano for an extra sharpness. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, consider adding mascarpone or ricotta cheese to the sauce. For a bit of tanginess, goat cheese can also be a delightful addition, just stir it in at the end for a creamy finish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Tuscan Mushroom Pasta Skillet
• Mediterranean Creamy Chicken Orzo
• Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta
• One-Pot Cheesy Southwest Chicken Rice

Conclusion

With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant asparagus in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, Chicken Penne with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus is a true restaurant-quality dish that you can easily prepare at home. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your guests, this pasta masterpiece is sure to delight. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the flavors of this exquisite pasta creation!

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