Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is the kind of dish that checks every box: comforting, flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe combines tender chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich, creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under an hour, making it ideal for easy weeknight dinners, family meals, or even date night at home.
What makes this creamy chicken pasta recipe special is the balance. The sauce is indulgent but not heavy, the vegetables add freshness and texture, and the chicken provides lean protein that turns this pasta into a complete, hearty meal. Whether you’re looking for comfort food recipes, quick dinner ideas, or crowd-pleasing pasta dishes, this one deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
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12 oz penne pasta
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Water and salt for boiling
For the Chicken and Vegetables
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
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1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Sauce
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil
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Extra Parmesan cheese
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Add the asparagus and cook for another 2–3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken Pasta
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
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Don’t overcook the asparagus; keeping it slightly crisp adds texture and color.
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For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
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This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Families
This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is ideal for anyone searching for quick dinner recipes, one-pan meals, or budget-friendly family dinners. It’s filling without being overly rich and sophisticated enough to serve guests, yet simple enough for beginner cooks.
It also reheats well, making it great for meal prep, leftover lunches, and make-ahead dinners—all highly searched topics in the food and lifestyle space.
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO Keywords)
Is creamy chicken pasta healthy?
Creamy chicken pasta can be part of a balanced diet when made with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and portion control. Using chicken breast and vegetables like asparagus and mushrooms adds nutrients and fiber, making it a smarter comfort food choice.
What’s the best pasta for creamy sauces?
Penne is one of the best pastas for creamy sauces because its ridges hold the sauce well. Other good options include fettuccine, rigatoni, and fusilli—popular choices in Italian pasta recipes.
Can I make creamy mushroom chicken pasta ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is great for meal prep recipes. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or broth.
How do I keep cream sauce from breaking?
Keep the heat at medium-low when adding cream and cheese. Avoid boiling the sauce, and always add cheese gradually—an important tip for homemade creamy pasta sauces.
What protein can I substitute for chicken?
Shrimp, salmon, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or mushrooms work well, making this recipe adaptable for high-protein meals or vegetarian dinner ideas.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a reliable, comforting, and versatile recipe that fits perfectly into modern lifestyles. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or creating content around easy homemade dinners, comfort food recipes, or creamy pasta dishes, this recipe delivers on flavor, simplicity, and broad appeal.
