Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a big bowl of creamy pasta, especially when it’s infused with earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and tender chicken. I created this Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne on a weeknight when I was craving something hearty yet fresh, and it quickly became a go-to favorite. It brings together everything I love in one dish—rich flavors, satisfying textures, and enough vegetables to feel wholesome without sacrificing indulgence.

The magic of this recipe is how it balances simplicity and sophistication. The mushrooms add umami depth, asparagus brings brightness and a slight crunch, and the penne perfectly holds onto the luscious, creamy sauce. It’s one of those meals that tastes like you spent hours preparing it, but it actually comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this pasta never disappoints.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

This dish is a complete meal in a bowl—protein, veggies, and carbs all coated in a savory cream sauce. It’s incredibly satisfying yet easy enough for a busy weeknight. You’ll love the way the flavors meld together with just the right amount of seasoning and creaminess. Plus, it’s customizable, reheats beautifully, and works great for leftovers.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and shred or slice easily into the pasta. But chicken thighs are also a fantastic choice if you want a richer, juicier bite. You can even use rotisserie chicken in a pinch for extra convenience.

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Options for Substitutions

This pasta is flexible. You can swap penne with any short pasta like rotini or fusilli. Don’t have asparagus? Broccoli or spinach works beautifully. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add extra mushrooms or even white beans. Dairy-free? Use a cashew cream or coconut milk alternative—just keep the seasoning bold to balance the richness.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

Penne Pasta – A short pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every bite rich and flavorful.

Chicken Breast – Lean, tender protein that cooks quickly and soaks up the savory sauce.

Asparagus – Adds freshness and a slight crunch, balancing the richness of the dish.

Mushrooms – Cremini or button mushrooms bring earthiness and umami depth to the creamy sauce.

Heavy Cream – Creates a luxurious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta and vegetables.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.

Garlic – Aromatic and essential for building depth of flavor.

Olive Oil – For sautéing the chicken and vegetables, and adding a subtle richness.

Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.

Chicken Broth – Adds body to the sauce and keeps it from being overly heavy.

Butter – Enriches the sauce and gives it a glossy finish.

Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano and basil that adds warmth and depth.

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

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Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breast pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Add to skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

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Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Asparagus

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Add asparagus and cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until tender-crisp.

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Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and let it gently simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it up with a bit of reserved pasta water. Toss everything to coat evenly.

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Step 6: Taste and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan.

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How Long to Prepare the Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

Prep Time: The chopping and prepping for this dish are minimal—expect to spend about 10–15 minutes slicing mushrooms, trimming asparagus, dicing chicken, and gathering your ingredients.

Cook Time: Once everything is prepped, the cooking goes fast. The chicken, vegetables, and sauce all come together in about 20 minutes, and you can boil the pasta simultaneously. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne

• Don’t overcook the pasta—aim for al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
• Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth after sautéing the mushrooms to pull up any flavorful browned bits.
• For ultra-creamy sauce, let the cream simmer gently, not boil.
• Add pasta water gradually to loosen the sauce only if needed—it’s packed with starch and keeps the sauce from becoming watery.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the chicken: It becomes dry and less flavorful. Cook until just done, then remove from the pan.
• Crowding the mushrooms: They won’t brown if they’re piled on top of each other. Give them space.
• Using pre-shredded Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Skipping the pasta water: It’s a great tool to adjust the consistency of your sauce without thinning the flavor.
• Adding asparagus too early: It can become mushy. Add toward the end to maintain a crisp texture.

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What to Serve With Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne?

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, soft and buttery inside, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

2. Mixed Green Salad

A light side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the creamy pasta.

3. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

A pop of acidity and sweetness to complement the earthy mushrooms.

4. Steamed Broccoli

Another green veggie that pairs well with cream-based dishes.

5. White Wine

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay works beautifully alongside the creamy texture.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken after refrigeration—simply add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to loosen it.

Freezer: While you can freeze this pasta, the cream sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze only the chicken and vegetables, then make the sauce fresh when reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth, cream, or milk to revive the sauce.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Sugar: 5g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just omit the chicken and add more mushrooms or white beans for protein.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a little flour or cornstarch to thicken if needed.

What’s the best way to prep asparagus?

Snap off the woody ends and cut into 2-inch pieces. Blanch or sauté quickly to keep them crisp.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Any short gluten-free pasta will work well—just watch the cooking time.

How do I make the sauce extra cheesy?

Add more Parmesan or stir in a bit of mozzarella for added richness.

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Conclusion

Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comfort-food classic with a fresh twist. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve to guests. With rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish hits all the right notes. Whether you’re making it once or adding it to your regular rotation, it’s a dish that satisfies every time.

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