Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe in 7 Easy Steps

There’s something incredibly comforting about a creamy pasta dish, especially when it’s packed with tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and earthy mushrooms. This creamy chicken penne recipe is all about bold flavors and easy steps that come together to create a delicious meal you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe hits the perfect balance of creamy sauce and fresh veggies. Follow this incredible 7-step recipe to enjoy a satisfying dinner that’s full of color, texture, and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and creamy sauce with a silky texture that clings to every bite of penne.
• Fresh asparagus and mushrooms add vibrant color and earthy flavors.
• Simple stovetop method that’s perfect for weeknight cooking.
• Uses common ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Comforting and hearty enough for leftovers the next day.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 650 per serving

How to Make Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender and mushrooms release their juices.
4. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the vegetables and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom, and let it reduce for 2-3 minutes.
5. Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together to coat well, warming through for 2-3 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese for a delicious, creamy chicken penne meal.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh asparagus that’s firm and bright green for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be just tender to maintain a nice bite.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but expect a slightly thinner sauce.
• Let the mushrooms brown well for deeper, richer flavor in the sauce.
• Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes gives a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle depending on your preference.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety and ensure your chicken broth or wine is gluten-free as well to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead and refrigerate them separately. Combine with fresh pasta and sauce just before serving to maintain the best texture.

What can I use instead of white wine in the sauce?

If you prefer to skip the wine, substitute with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. This keeps the sauce flavorful without adding alcohol.