Description
This Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting and flavorful Italian-American pasta dish featuring tender diced chicken breast, fresh asparagus, sliced mushrooms, and penne pasta all tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop and makes a satisfying family dinner, combining protein, vegetables, and a luscious sauce in one bowl.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- 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. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their moisture.
- Add asparagus and garlic: Stir in the asparagus pieces and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine pasta with sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy mushroom and asparagus sauce.
- Finish and serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat and extra flavor.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
