Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Here’s a rich and satisfying recipe for Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne — a perfect one-skillet or one-pot pasta dinner that’s ready in under an hour. Tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and penne pasta are tossed in a luxurious garlic-Parmesan cream sauce. It’s cozy, flavorful, and great for weeknights or guests.

🍝 Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25–30 mins
Total Time: ~45 mins

🧄 Ingredients:

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
1 tbsp butter
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
Chopped parsley, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

2. Sauté the Chicken:

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add to pan and cook until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

In the same pan, add remaining olive oil and butter. Sauté mushrooms for 3–4 minutes until browned. Add garlic and asparagus, cooking another 3–4 minutes until asparagus is tender-crisp.

4. Make the Cream Sauce:

Lower heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth (or pasta water). Bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan and stir until melted and sauce thickens slightly (about 2–3 minutes).

5. Combine:

Return chicken to the skillet, then add cooked penne. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

6. Serve:

Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve warm!

📝 Tips:

Lighter option: Use half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Add-ins: A handful of baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas can be added for extra color and nutrition.
Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double the mushrooms or add tofu.

Would you like a baked version of this dish or a dairy-free alternative?