Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

There are some recipes that feel like a warm hug at the end of a long day, and this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is one of them. It’s rich, cozy, and beautifully balanced — tender bites of seasoned chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp-tender asparagus all tossed in a velvety Parmesan-cream sauce that lovingly coats every piece of penne.

I still remember the first night I made this dish — a chilly evening when I needed something comforting but didn’t want to fuss with too many steps. The aroma of garlic and mushrooms sizzling in the pan filled the kitchen, and by the time I took the first bite, I knew it would become one of those reliable, family-favorite meals that never disappoints.

What I love most is how effortlessly everything comes together. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable — the kind of pasta dish that feels special without requiring anything complicated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this dish earns a regular spot in the weeknight rotation, but the biggest one is simple: it’s the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a table full of hungry guests, this meal always feels warm, inviting, and wonderfully satisfying — without asking for much effort in return.

What makes it extra lovable is how approachable the whole process is. No fancy techniques, no tricky ingredients — just everyday staples transforming into something that feels restaurant-worthy. And because everything cooks in stages in the same big skillet, cleanup stays blissfully easy.

Another reason people fall head-over-heels for this recipe? It’s incredibly versatile. Swap the pasta, change the veggies, lighten the sauce, or boost the protein — the dish happily adapts to whatever you’re craving or whatever you already have in the fridge.

Most importantly, its creamy, cozy nature makes every bowl feel like a small celebration. It’s the kind of pasta that brings people to the table quickly and quietly (because they’ll be too busy eating).

Rich, indulgent flavour & texture

The combination of heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan melts into the pan to create a dreamy, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to the penne, chicken, and vegetables. Every bite is creamy, savory, and deeply comforting — the kind of richness that feels luxurious without being heavy.

Simple, accessible ingredients

Nothing about this recipe is complicated. You’ll use everyday basics like chicken, mushrooms, asparagus, garlic, and pasta — ingredients that are easy to find and even easier to work with. It’s proof that simple staples can come together to make something truly special.

Quick and straightforward preparation

This entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a total lifesaver on busy days. The steps are easy, the process is intuitive, and the one-pan approach means less cleanup. It’s perfect for beginners yet satisfying enough for seasoned home cooks.

Customizable to your taste and dietary preferences

You can easily tailor this recipe to fit your mood or needs. Swap the chicken for shrimp, mushrooms for spinach, penne for whole-grain pasta… or lighten the sauce if you prefer something less rich. It’s a recipe that adjusts beautifully to whatever you’re craving.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a small but meaningful role in bringing balance, flavour, and texture to this delicious pasta dish:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps brown the chicken and sauté the vegetables, adding richness.

• Salt and pepper to taste – simple seasoning that enhances everything from the chicken to the sauce.

• 2 cups mushrooms (sliced) – provide earthy depth and a tender, meaty texture.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – the lean protein base that makes the dish hearty.

• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces – adds brightness, crunch, and a pop of colour.

• 3 cloves garlic, minced – brings aromatic warmth and flavour.

• ½ cup chicken broth – helps deglaze the pan and forms the foundation of the sauce.

• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the luscious, silky cream sauce.

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – melts beautifully into the cream, adding savoury depth.

• 12 oz penne pasta – sturdy enough to hold onto the sauce nicely.

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

Each ingredient contributes to a harmonious balance of creamy, savory, fresh, and earthy flavors — all coming together in one delicious, comforting dish.

How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

There’s something so comforting about bringing together simple ingredients in a single skillet and watching them transform into a rich, creamy pasta dish. This recipe is wonderfully beginner-friendly, and the steps are straightforward enough to follow even on a busy weeknight. Prep takes about 10 minutes, cooking takes 20, and before you know it, you’re enjoying a warm bowl of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne that tastes like pure coziness.

Below is the step-by-step process, along with a few friendly tips to help make your dish come out beautifully every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the pasta.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. If you’re cooking ahead, drizzle the pasta with a touch of olive oil to keep it from sticking.

2. Brown the chicken.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–7 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
   Tip: Let the chicken sit for a moment before stirring — this helps it develop a lovely golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the vegetables.
   In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Cook for 4–5 minutes until they soften and take on a lightly caramelized edge. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
   Encouragement: Don’t overcook the asparagus — a little bite keeps the dish vibrant and balanced.

4. Build the sauce.
   Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan (these add so much flavor!). Allow the broth to simmer and reduce slightly for 2 minutes.

5. Add the cream.
   Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
   Tip: Keep the heat moderate — a gentle simmer prevents the cream from separating.

6. Finish with Parmesan.
   Stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts seamlessly into the sauce, creating that silky, luscious texture.

7. Combine everything.
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne. Toss gently until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.

8. Serve warm.
   Let the pasta heat through for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like a pop of color and freshness.

This dish comes together beautifully, and each step builds flavor while keeping things simple and approachable — exactly what cozy home cooking should feel like.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn an easy dinner into a truly memorable meal. Here are a few delicious options that complement the creamy sauce and bright vegetables:

Suggested Pairings

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
  The light acidity cuts through the richness of the sauce and adds a refreshing contrast.

• Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
  Ideal for soaking up every last bit of creamy Parmesan goodness.

• A light white wine
  Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with mushrooms and asparagus.

• Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables
  Green beans, zucchini, or broccoli add color and extra nutrients.

• Non-alcoholic pairing: sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal tea
  Both are refreshing and balance the richness of the pasta.

These sides round out the meal nicely and create a comforting, well-balanced dinner that works for family nights or easy entertaining.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is how easily it can be customized. Whether you’re lightening things up, adjusting for dietary needs, or simply working with what you have on hand, these variations make the recipe wonderfully flexible and forgiving.

Lighter Version

If you’re looking for something a bit less rich, you can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even whole milk. The sauce will naturally be thinner, so whisk in a teaspoon of flour or a small cornstarch slurry to help it thicken gently. The flavor stays creamy and comforting, just with a lighter finish.

Different Protein or Vegetarian Option

Boneless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, while shrimp makes this dish feel like a luxurious seafood pasta. For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and use sautéed chickpeas, pan-seared tofu, or even additional vegetables like spinach or zucchini. The creamy sauce pairs well with almost anything.

Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Option

Swap traditional penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta, or lighten the meal by using zucchini noodles, chickpea pasta, or spaghetti squash. If using vegetable noodles, reduce cooking time slightly to preserve their texture.

Storage Instructions

Keeping this creamy pasta fresh and delicious is easy with the right storage tips.

Room Temperature Storage

Because this dish contains cream and chicken, it’s best enjoyed fresh and should not sit out for more than 1–2 hours. After that, the sauce may separate, and food safety becomes a concern.

Refrigeration Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth, cream, or even a spoonful of water to loosen the sauce and restore its silky texture.

Freezing Instructions

Cream sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, as they can separate. For best results, freeze only the cooked chicken and vegetables (without the pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, warm gently, and combine with freshly cooked pasta and a new splash of cream. If you freeze the full dish, freeze in individual portions and expect slight texture changes.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are a few simple tips to help your pasta turn out beautifully every time:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother melt and richer flavor.

• Don’t overcook the asparagus — keep it tender-crisp for the best texture.

• Let the chicken brown properly; the little browned bits (fond) add deep flavor to the sauce.

• If the sauce gets too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water or chicken broth.

• Season each layer — chicken, veggies, sauce — to build balanced flavor.

• Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously. A gentle simmer keeps it creamy and prevents separation.

• After cooking, let the pasta rest for 1 minute before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Related Recipes

• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne — similar creamy chicken pasta with broccoli instead of asparagus.

• Chicken Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna — another dish featuring chicken and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.

• Easy Chicken with Garlic Mushroom Sauce — a one-pan chicken and mushroom dish in creamy sauce.

• Honey Pepper Chicken Pasta — creamy chicken pasta with a sweet-pepper twist.

• Mozzarella Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Cheesy Cream — another creamy, indulgent chicken-pasta dish with cheese and garlic.

FAQs

Here are some common questions home cooks ask when making this delicious pasta dish:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, or any shape that holds sauce will work beautifully.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk are great substitutes. If you want a thicker sauce, add a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and vegetables earlier in the day, but for best texture and creaminess, combine everything with the pasta just before serving.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

It should be fully opaque with no pink center. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) means it’s safe to eat.

Can I freeze this dish?

The cream sauce doesn’t freeze perfectly and may separate. It’s best to freeze only the chicken and vegetables.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have Parmesan?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago are great substitutes, but keep in mind they’re slightly saltier.

How can I make it more vegetable-heavy?

Simply add more mushrooms and asparagus, or toss in spinach, peas, or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is everything a comforting pasta dish should be — warm, creamy, satisfying, and beautifully balanced with fresh vegetables and tender bites of chicken. It’s quick enough for a weeknight, yet special enough to feel like a little homemade indulgence. The rich cream sauce, the mix of textures, and the ability to customize it to your needs make it a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.

If you’re craving something cozy but simple, this dish is the perfect choice. Give it a try for your next dinner — whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the whole family.

When you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Leave a comment below, pin this recipe for later, or share it with friends and family.
Thanks so much for cooking along with me today — happy eating! 🍝💛

Print