Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne: A Comforting Weeknight Dinner
This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together in under 40 minutes. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus are tossed in a velvety garlic cream sauce with al dente penne pasta for a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. The rich sauce clings to every noodle, while the fresh vegetables add brightness and texture. It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home.
What makes this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne special is its balance of flavors and textures. The umami-rich mushrooms complement the slightly sweet asparagus, while the chicken adds lean protein to make it a complete meal. A touch of white wine in the sauce elevates the flavors, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this pasta dish is sure to impress.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: Savory, creamy, and slightly earthy with a hint of garlic and white wine.
- Texture: Al dente pasta with tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and meaty mushrooms.
- Aroma: Fragrant garlic, fresh herbs, and the rich scent of sautéed mushrooms.
- Visual Appeal: Vibrant green asparagus and golden-brown chicken contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple techniques like sautéing and simmering.
- Special Equipment: Large skillet, pasta pot, and wooden spoon.
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: Easy enough for beginners but flavorful enough for experienced cooks.
- Category: Main dish, pasta, comfort food.
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired with modern American touches.
- Cost: Budget-friendly with affordable ingredients like chicken, mushrooms, and asparagus.
- Season: Best in spring when asparagus is fresh, but great year-round.
- Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus creates a satisfying texture contrast, while the garlic cream sauce ties everything together. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritionally, this dish is well-balanced, offering lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and complex carbs from the penne. The sauce, made with a touch of white wine and Parmesan, adds depth without being overly heavy. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but is still wholesome.
For entertaining, this pasta dish is a crowd-pleaser. The vibrant colors and rich aroma make it visually appealing, while the flavors are universally loved. Pair it with a simple salad and crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress guests.
Cost-wise, this recipe is budget-friendly. Chicken, mushrooms, and asparagus are affordable ingredients, especially when in season. The sauce uses pantry staples like garlic, butter, and cream, making it easy to whip up without a special trip to the store.
Finally, this dish is highly adaptable. Swap ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have on hand—spinach for asparagus, shrimp for chicken, or even a dairy-free cream sauce if needed. The possibilities are endless!
The Recipe
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Pasta pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Colander
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through (5-6 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté mushrooms until golden (4-5 minutes). Add asparagus and cook for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in white wine and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, simmering until slightly thickened (3-4 minutes).
- Return chicken to the skillet and add cooked penne. Toss to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Recipe Notes
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end.
