Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne: A Delicious Comfort Food Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne. This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines the savory taste of chicken, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the crispness of asparagus, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re looking to prepare a weeknight dinner or impress guests with your culinary skills, this recipe offers both convenience and flavor in every bite.

Why Choose Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?

This recipe is the ultimate solution for anyone craving a hearty, filling meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The combination of chicken, penne pasta, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Quick and easy: In less than 30 minutes, you can have a creamy pasta dish on the table, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
• Comforting and hearty: The creamy sauce, made with heavy cream and chicken broth, coats the pasta and vegetables perfectly, making each bite a satisfying experience.
• Packed with flavor: The use of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs like thyme and basil gives the dish an incredible depth of flavor.
• Nutritious: The asparagus and mushrooms add essential nutrients, making this meal not just delicious but also a great way to get some extra vegetables into your diet.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

To prepare this comforting pasta dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta: Penne is the ideal shape for this creamy sauce, but feel free to substitute with other pasta types like fettuccine or rigatoni.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and vegetables, olive oil adds richness to the dish.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, these provide lean protein and flavor.
• Salt and pepper: These are essential to season the chicken and vegetables, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings a bold aroma and flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced: Mushrooms add an earthy flavor that balances well with the other ingredients.
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces: The asparagus adds freshness and texture to the dish, making it a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The foundation of the creamy sauce, making it rich and indulgent.
• 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce and thins it out to the right consistency.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds a mild, savory taste that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil gives a sweet, slightly peppery flavor, which balances the earthiness of the mushrooms.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish, parsley adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to make this creamy and flavorful dish:

1. Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This should take about 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water, as it can be useful later to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.

2. Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned. This step will help develop the rich, savory flavors of the dish.

4. Make the Sauce

Once the vegetables are cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, and dried basil. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. The creaminess of the sauce should perfectly coat the vegetables and pasta.

5. Combine the Chicken and Pasta

Add the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring that the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the dish is heated through.

6. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve the creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Use fresh mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms have a better texture and flavor than canned mushrooms, making them a great addition to this dish.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or peppers.
• Adjust the consistency: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth or pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
• Make it lighter: To lighten up the dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use low-sodium chicken broth.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves creamy pasta dishes with a touch of freshness from vegetables. The chicken adds protein and richness, while the mushrooms bring earthy flavors and the asparagus adds a crisp, vibrant element. The creamy sauce binds everything together, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Additionally, this dish is versatile. You can enjoy it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serve it for guests at a dinner party. It’s easy to prepare, yet it feels like a special, indulgent meal. You’ll be able to impress your family or guests with your culinary skills while keeping things simple and stress-free in the kitchen.

FAQs About Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other pasta types such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before adding it to the sauce.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and reheat the sauce mixture before combining everything.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or even sun-dried tomatoes to make the dish more vibrant and nutritious.

4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.

5. Can I freeze creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne?
While pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t always freeze well due to the texture of the sauce, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture (without the pasta) and reheat it with freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal.

Conclusion

The creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is a perfect recipe for those looking to indulge in a comforting yet simple dish. It brings together the flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and asparagus, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that will satisfy your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and easy to make.

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