Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Creating memorable meals often comes from the combination of simple ingredients and a love for cooking. Imagine a busy weeknight where you yearn for something comforting yet satisfying. The thought of a creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne brings warmth to the heart and a smile to the face.

Pasta dishes like this one remind us that cooking can be both quick and delightful. The flavors of tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and crisp asparagus intertwine beautifully with creamy sauce, crafting a dish everyone at the dinner table will love. The blend of ingredients transforms into a symphony of taste, showcasing how each element contributes to the overall experience.

In a world filled with complex recipes, this creamy chicken penne stands out. It’s simple, elegant, and embodies the essence of home cooking. Let’s explore the steps to create this delicious dish that fits perfectly into any mealtime routine.

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Fundamentals

When it comes to making a creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne, simplicity is key. This dish marries pasta with succulent chicken and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a silky smooth sauce. Understanding the fundamentals of this recipe allows cooks of all skill levels to excel.

Penne pasta serves as a wonderful base. Its tubular shape and ridged surface capture the creamy sauce beautifully. Plus, it cooks easily and pairs well with various ingredients. Choosing high-quality chicken and fresh vegetables ensures a satisfying meal loaded with flavor and nutrients. Knowing how to balance the creaminess with the right seasonings transforms this dish from ordinary to remarkable.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into cooking, gathering all the ingredients sets the stage for a smooth experience. Start by measuring out 12 oz of penne pasta, 2 tbsp of olive oil, and ensuring you have 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces. Prepare 3 cloves of minced garlic, along with 1 cup each of sliced mushrooms and chopped asparagus cut into 1-inch pieces.

Seasoning is equally important. Have salt and black pepper ready to enhance the dish’s flavors. Prepare 1 cup of heavy cream, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, ½ tsp of Italian seasoning, and if desired, ¼ tsp of red pepper flakes. Lastly, you’ll need ½ cup of chicken broth, 1 tbsp of unsalted butter, and ¼ cup of freshly chopped parsley for that beautiful garnish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to embark on your culinary adventure:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside while you prepare the other components.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, which takes about 5-6 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Utilize the same skillet for flavor. Add the unsalted butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Add in the mushrooms and asparagus, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they turn tender.

4. Pour in the chicken broth alongside the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes.

5. Next, incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you decide to use them. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.

6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

7. Garnish with the freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

The Technique Behind Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Technique

To master the technique behind creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne, focus lies in each cooking step. Start with the chicken. Searing it properly brings out its natural flavors, giving it a delightful golden crust. The same principle applies to the garlic; cooking it just enough ensures it complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.

Adding the cream and chicken broth needs careful attention too. Allow it to simmer and notice how the sauce thickens, creating that luxurious texture we seek in creamy dishes. When combining the cooked ingredients, make sure to toss gently; this method helps retain the integrity of the pasta without breaking it.

Tips/tricks

A few tips can elevate your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne experience. First, always taste periodically. Adjusting salt and pepper while cooking leads to a perfectly balanced dish.

For an extra touch, consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme alongside your parsley garnish. The freshness brightens the entire meal. If you love heat, the optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile without dominating the dish.

Perfecting the Results of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Perfecting results

The journey toward perfect creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne lies in attention to detail. Cooking the pasta al dente is essential; you want it firm enough to hold up in the sauce without becoming mushy. This balance contributes to the overall texture of the meal.

When you sauté the vegetables, don’t rush the process. Allow them to soften gradually, releasing their natural sweetness while still retaining some of their bite. These small adjustments make all the difference in the final taste of the dish.

Troubleshooting/variations

Sometimes, cooking doesn’t go as planned. If the sauce turns out too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes, which allows it to thicken naturally. On the other hand, if it becomes too thick, adding a splash more of chicken broth or cream helps restore the desired consistency.

Feel free to modify the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Adding spinach or bell peppers can introduce new flavors and appealing colors to this dish, enhancing its visual and taste profile.

Serving and Storing Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Serving/presentation

Presenting your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne beautifully makes the dish even more enjoyable. Serve it in wide bowls to showcase the vibrant ingredients and creamy sauce. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for a rich finishing touch, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color.

Pair this dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. The vibrant flavors and rich textures will leave your family and friends asking for seconds.

Pairings/storage

Perfect pairings for creamy chicken penne include fresh salads and crusty bread. A crispy Caesar salad or a refreshing arugula salad will complement the creamy sauce well. Storing leftovers? This dish holds up nicely in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.

Enjoying delicious meals shouldn’t be complicated. With this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne recipe, you bring comfort to the table. Just a few ingredients yield rich flavors and satisfying results, elevating any dining experience.

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting and satisfying creamy chicken pasta dish with mushrooms and asparagus, perfect for weeknight meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the unsalted butter and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the mushrooms and asparagus, cooking for 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta. Toss until pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Garnish with extra Parmesan and serve with a salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken, pasta, creamy, penne, mushrooms, asparagus