The Best Chicken Penne Recipe with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
This chicken penne with creamy mushroom sauce is a deliciously rich, yet simple dish that combines juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a smooth and velvety sauce. The mushrooms, asparagus, and garlic bring savory depth, while the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream create a luscious texture that coats every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a comforting meal to enjoy with family, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water for later if needed.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the chopped asparagus and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
Serve the creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
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Make sure to cook the chicken until golden brown on the outside but still juicy on the inside. This will help the chicken retain moisture and prevent it from becoming dry when added to the creamy sauce.
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Don’t skip reserving some pasta water. The starchy water can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce, ensuring that it clings to the pasta without becoming too thick or too thin.
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Experiment with different vegetables. If you’re not a fan of asparagus, you can substitute it with spinach, broccoli, or even zucchini for a similar texture and added nutrition.
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This dish is easy to customize. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sauce for a spicy kick.
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For a richer, more indulgent flavor, add some crispy bacon bits or a touch of truffle oil as a garnish. This can elevate the dish, making it even more special for a weekend meal or special occasion.