Description

Imagine a dinner that effortlessly transforms an ordinary weeknight into a gourmet experience. This Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of tender, golden-seared chicken, fresh, crisp asparagus, and earthy mushrooms all tossed with al dente penne pasta in a luscious, velvety cream sauce. The dish exudes warmth and comfort while still feeling light and elegant—a true celebration of flavors that marries convenience with sophistication. Every bite delivers a delightful contrast: the savory richness of the cream sauce, the vibrant crunch of asparagus, and the deep, umami notes of sautéed mushrooms, all accented by a hint of garlic and Parmesan. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself after a busy day, this recipe is a tribute to the joy of home cooking made easy, ensuring that even on the most hectic evenings, you can serve up a plate of restaurant-quality pasta.

Ingredients

• For the Pasta and Chicken
• • 8 oz penne pasta
• • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or tenderloins), cut into bite-sized pieces
• • Salt and pepper to taste
• • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Vegetables
• • 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• • 8 oz mushrooms (white button, cremini, or a mix), cleaned and sliced
• • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Creamy Sauce
• • 1 cup chicken broth
• • 1 cup heavy cream (or a lighter half-and-half alternative)
• • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• • ½ teaspoon onion powder
• • Optional pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat
• Garnish
• • Fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• • Extra Parmesan cheese for serving

Preparation Method

1. Boil salted water in a large pot and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.

3. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and sauté sliced mushrooms and asparagus until tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Simmer until slightly thickened.

5. Stir in onion powder, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook on low until cheese melts and sauce is silky.

6. Return chicken to skillet and fold into sauce with vegetables. Add drained penne pasta and toss to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water.

7. Let dish sit on low heat for 1 minute to meld flavors.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra layer of brightness, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the pasta just before serving—it cuts through the richness and elevates the overall flavor profile. Additionally, if you enjoy a bit of extra texture, consider sprinkling toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts on top. These add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Another great tip is to finish the dish with a generous garnish of fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese, which not only adds color but also a burst of fresh flavor.

This Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings together the best of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques to create a dish that’s both hearty and refined. With succulent chicken, crisp asparagus, and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a velvety cream sauce, each bite delivers comfort, elegance, and a touch of indulgence. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to serve a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. We invite you to explore more recipes on our site and experiment with your own twists on this classic dish. Enjoy the process, share the meal with loved ones, and let every dinner be a reminder of the simple pleasures of home cooking. Bon appétit!