Creamy Chicken Penne with Mushrooms and Asparagus
Indulge in the creamy richness of our Creamy Chicken Penne with Mushrooms and Asparagus! This delectable dish combines tender chicken breasts, fresh vegetables, and a luxurious sauce that clings to perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Penne is not just another pasta dish; it’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The sautéed mushrooms and asparagus add crunch and freshness, elevating the dish to new heights. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan, makes every bite delightful. Easy to prepare and ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy lifestyles without compromising on taste.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Penne
1. Ingredient Quality: Always opt for fresh ingredients. Fresh mushrooms and asparagus will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
2. Pasta Cooking: Cook the penne just until al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when combined with the sauce, absorbing some of the flavors.
3. Adjust the Creaminess: You can add more or less cream based on your preference; substituting half-and-half for heavy cream can lighten the dish while still maintaining creaminess.
4. Herbs and Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for an additional flavor kick.
5. Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this Creamy Chicken Penne with Mushrooms and Asparagus:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 11-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta, making sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use, and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken – In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully place them in the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet, slice it into thin strips, and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables – In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Next, add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces. Cook the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and bright in color. Season with additional salt, pepper, and optional thyme, if desired.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce – Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, creating a rich texture.
Step 5: Combine Everything – Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated. Then, add the sliced chicken and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese has melted into the sauce and everything is well mixed and heated through.
Step 6: Serve – Spoon the creamy chicken penne into bowls or onto plates. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of this creamy dish!
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is used here, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer—fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti will work well.
What if I don’t have asparagus?
If asparagus isn’t available, you can use other vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or even spinach as a great alternative.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with the pasta just before serving to maintain freshness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy chicken penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream for moisture.
Can I add other proteins to the dish?
Definitely! Shrimp or diced turkey can be great additions if you’re looking to switch up the protein in this creamy dish.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Penne with Mushrooms and Asparagus is an extraordinary dish that appeals to all palates, making it an ideal choice for any meal. It’s simple yet elegant, nutritious, and absolutely delicious. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this creamy pasta dish promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients and indulge in this delightful creamy dish!
