Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

🍝 Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne (Mediterranean Style)

📖 Description

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish made with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, and a light creamy garlic sauce. The flavors are balanced with olive oil, herbs, and Parmesan, creating a rich yet fresh meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special family meal.

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🧾 Ingredients

For the pasta

• 300 g (10 oz) penne pasta

• Salt for boiling water

For the chicken and vegetables

• 2 chicken breasts, diced

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt to taste

For the creamy sauce

• 1 cup cooking cream or heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Sauté vegetables
   In the same pan, add onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.

4. Add asparagus
   Add asparagus pieces and sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still bright green.

5. Make the creamy sauce
   Pour in the cream, add oregano and Parmesan cheese, and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Combine everything
   Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss gently until well coated with the sauce.

7. Finish the dish
   Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.

8. Serve
   Serve warm with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs on top.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or warm pita.

• Pair with a Mediterranean cucumber and tomato salad.

• Add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a slight spicy kick.

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❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this lighter?
Yes. Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

Q: What mushrooms work best?
Button mushrooms, cremini, or portobello mushrooms work well.

Q: Can I use another pasta?
Absolutely. Fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti can replace penne.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Simply remove the chicken and add extra mushrooms or chickpeas for protein.