Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus

If you're craving a comforting yet elegant dish, Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus is the perfect choice. This flavorful meal combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and fresh asparagus all coated in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight dinner but fancy enough to serve at a dinner party.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Penne:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Sear the Chicken:
   

   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender. Toss in the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce slightly thickens.

5. Combine Everything:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve:
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Perfect Dish

• Pasta Water: Save a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
• Chicken Options: You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier texture.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap asparagus with broccoli or add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

Health Benefits

• Lean Protein: Chicken provides a good source of lean protein.
• Nutrient-Rich Veggies: Asparagus and mushrooms offer fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Calcium Boost: Parmesan cheese adds a dose of calcium to the dish.

Conclusion

Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus is a delightful combination of rich, savory flavors and creamy textures. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering both comfort and elegance in every bite. Enjoy it fresh and hot, and watch it become a household favorite!