Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Transform your weeknight dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience with this elegant pasta dish. The Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luxurious cream sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Imagine a plate filled with perfectly cooked penne pasta, succulent chicken, and crisp asparagus, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Moreover, this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

Whether you're cooking for family or looking to elevate your meal prep, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne will become a cherished favorite. Additionally, it's a balanced dish that combines protein, vegetables, and satisfying pasta in one delightful meal.

Creamy Chicken Penne: A Culinary Masterpiece of Comfort and Flavor

Get ready to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. The harmonious blend of juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and tender asparagus creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to discover how a few simple ingredients can transform into an extraordinary meal that celebrates the art of home cooking.

Pro Tips for Perfect Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne:

Pasta Perfection: Cook penne al dente to ensure the perfect texture. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping.

Chicken Cooking Technique: Sear chicken on medium-high heat to create a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Vegetable Preparation: Cut asparagus and mushrooms into uniform pieces for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

Sauce Secrets: Slowly simmer the cream sauce to prevent breaking and develop rich, deep flavors.

Cheese Finale: Add Parmesan cheese off the heat to maintain its smooth, creamy texture.

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Equipment: Large pot, skillet, cutting board, knife, wooden spoon

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Base:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Begin by preparing all ingredients. Trim and cut the asparagus, slice the mushrooms, mince the garlic, and cut the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add asparagus and mushrooms. Cook the vegetables until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic to the vegetables and sauté for an additional minute, releasing its aromatic flavors.
6. Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook until the sauce slightly thickens, about 5 minutes.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the prepared penne pasta. Gently stir to combine all ingredients and ensure everything is heated through.
8. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh thyme. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or garlic bread.

Storage Solutions:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to refresh the sauce
• Avoid freezing, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed
• For best results, consume within 2 days

Whether you're a pasta enthusiast or simply craving a comforting meal, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne delivers an incredible balance of flavors and textures that will become a staple in your recipe collection.

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