Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne: A One-Pan Comfort Meal

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If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels restaurant-quality without the fuss, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is exactly what you need. Packed with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, vibrant asparagus, and a luxuriously creamy sauce, this pasta dish is pure comfort in a bowl — and the best part? It’s all ready in under 30 minutes.

Let’s dive into this mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special gatherings, or even meal prep. Trust me, once you taste it, it’s going straight into your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

I’m a big believer in recipes that balance convenience and flavor, and this one delivers on both fronts. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

• Quick and easy — From start to finish, this comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings
• One-pan wonder — Less cleanup, more enjoying. Everything comes together in one skillet (minus the pasta water)
• Incredibly creamy — The sauce hugs the penne perfectly, creating that rich, comforting bite every time
• Nutrient-packed — Asparagus and mushrooms bring a dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this a balanced, hearty meal
• Versatile — You can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine this: tender chicken bites seasoned just right, earthy mushrooms that soak up all that garlicky goodness, and asparagus that stays crisp yet tender. All of it is coated in a silky, savory cream sauce that clings to the penne. Each bite is a mix of creamy, savory, and fresh — truly a comforting, yet surprisingly light pasta dish that doesn’t feel overly heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
• 1 cup chopped asparagus (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half for a lighter touch
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil, for garnish)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Tongs or spatula for stirring
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander for draining pasta

Ingredient Substitutions and Add-Ons

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some easy swaps and extras:

• Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even sausage. For a vegetarian option, go with tofu or extra mushrooms
• Broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini would all taste amazing
• Prefer a lighter version? Use half-and-half or even a splash of milk with a spoonful of cream cheese
• Parmesan brings that nutty richness, but Pecorino Romano or Gruyère would be fantastic alternatives
• Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until al dente (firm to the bite). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Sauté the Veggies

Add mushrooms and asparagus to the skillet with the chicken.
Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms release their juices and the asparagus becomes tender-crisp.

Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring well to combine.
Simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season to taste with more salt and pepper if needed.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the penne is coated in that luscious sauce.
If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve and Garnish

Divide into bowls, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant, fresh finish.
Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy bite.

What to Serve with Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

This pasta is filling on its own, but if you want to elevate your meal, here are some delicious side ideas:

• Garlic bread for sopping up that extra sauce
• Simple green salad with a light, tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness
• Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor
• A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcook the pasta — al dente is key since it’ll finish cooking slightly when tossed with the sauce
• Save that pasta water — it’s liquid gold for thinning out the sauce without sacrificing flavor
• Slice asparagus evenly to ensure it cooks uniformly and keeps a bit of that crunchy bite
• Season at each stage — layering salt and pepper as you cook brings out the best flavors

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge
• Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce
• Not recommended for freezing — creamy sauces tend to separate when frozen

Looking for more comforting recipes? Check out these favorites:
Easter Swirl Pie Recipe So Good It Feels Like Magic
Million Dollar Lasagna Recipe For The Ultimate Comfort Meal
Seafood Boil Sauce Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Cook everything and store the components separately. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I make this healthier?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a light cream. Add extra veggies and use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli would all work beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day — rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a cozy dinner night, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Share your thoughts in the comments, and feel free to tag me in your mouthwatering photos on Pinterest. Happy cooking!