If you’re in the mood for a comforting and delicious meal, look no further than Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! This dish combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and creamy sauce, all tossed with pasta. It’s a winner for families and perfect for a cozy dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat! With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, you can whip this up without much fuss. Plus, it’s packed with flavor, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular on your menu!
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet! It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread. Everyone will enjoy the creamy, rich flavors. Don’t forget to add extra parsley on top for some nice color!
How to Store Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge. It will keep for about 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, like spinach or peas, for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; some people like a little garlic or crushed red pepper for a kick.
Variation
You can swap the penne for any pasta shape you like. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works great too! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Yes, you can use frozen asparagus and mushrooms. Just thaw them before adding to the skillet.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare everything ahead and then just heat it up when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with this dish?
A: This recipe goes well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce!