There is something incredibly comforting about the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe that makes it a standout weeknight favorite. Imagine tender pieces of chicken perfectly seasoned and seared to golden perfection, combined with fresh asparagus and earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety cream sauce that clings lovingly to every bite of al dente penne pasta. This dish balances freshness, richness, and satisfying textures in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser anytime you want to impress without fuss.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy penne pasta mixed with light brown sliced mushrooms and bright green asparagus pieces, all coated in a smooth, beige cream sauce with specks of black pepper and small green herb flakes scattered throughout. The penne pasta tubes are layered evenly with the vegetables, creating a balanced mix of colors and textures. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe keeps things delightfully straightforward with simple ingredients that truly let each flavor shine. Every item contributes essential notes — from the tender chicken adding hearty body, to the bright asparagus and meaty mushrooms building layers of freshness and earthiness, while the cream and Parmesan create that signature rich, silky sauce.

12 oz penne pasta: Choose quality pasta that holds sauce well and has that perfect al dente bite.
2 tablespoons olive oil: A good olive oil ensures the chicken crisps slightly and adds subtle fruity notes.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and easy eating.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings aromatic warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory depth and rounds out the seasoning beautifully.
1 cup sliced mushrooms: Adds an earthy, meaty texture that’s perfect alongside tender chicken.
1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers a fresh, crisp contrast and a lovely pop of green color.
1 cup heavy cream: The backbone of the creamy sauce, lending richness and smoothness.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it melts into the sauce for the ultimate savory finish.
Salt and pepper to taste: The simplest way to elevate all the flavors and bring balance.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the penne pasta until it is perfectly al dente. This ensures that each piece holds up against the rich sauce without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside — it’s now ready to soak up all that creamy goodness later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken pieces seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until it develops a gorgeous golden-brown surface and is cooked through. This step locks in moisture while adding a delicious crust that enhances the texture of the dish.

Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms and Asparagus

To the skillet with cooked chicken, toss in the sliced mushrooms and asparagus pieces. Sauté everything together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still retain a slight bite. This quick sauté keeps the asparagus bright green and the mushrooms juicy, perfectly complementing the rich cream sauce that’s coming next.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting it warm through and thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt fully into the sauce. This is where the magic happens — the sauce transforms into a silky, luxurious blanket that will coat every piece of chicken and pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet, gently tossing everything together so each noodle is thoroughly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, adding a splash of reserved pasta water helps loosen it just enough to create that perfect clingy texture. Cook for an additional minute to marry all the flavors before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe even further, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving. A small handful of chopped fresh parsley or a grind of black pepper adds a refreshing contrast and a pop of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted garlic bread or a simple crusty baguette is also a fantastic choice to scoop up any leftover sauce. If you want to add some veggies, steamed broccoli or a light tomato salad will complement the flavors beautifully without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the penne in individual shallow bowls and garnish each with a few whole asparagus tips and sautéed mushrooms arranged artfully on top. Drizzle a tiny swirl of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of color and extra flair. This makes the dish feel restaurant-worthy and perfect for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and deepen a bit after resting, making leftovers just as enjoyable as freshly made.

Freezing

While cream-based pasta dishes don’t freeze as ideally as some others, you can freeze this dish if necessary. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture retention.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silkiness. Microwave reheating is possible but less ideal as it may cause the sauce to separate; stirring well midway helps combat this.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and stay juicy, so just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich and creamy.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, just swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety, and you’re good to go without sacrificing taste or texture.

Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra mushrooms or your favorite veggies for a satisfying vegetarian version.

How do I keep the asparagus tender but not mushy?

Cut the asparagus into uniform 1-inch pieces and sauté briefly until bright green and just tender, usually 3 to 4 minutes. Overcooking will cause mushiness, so keep an eye on it!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its blend of fresh, earthy vegetables and rich, comforting sauce makes it an all-around winner for any dinner occasion. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to recipe that never fails to impress and satisfy.