Why make this recipe
Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and rich creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion. It is easy to make, filling, and offers a burst of flavors that everyone will enjoy. You can impress your family and friends with a meal that looks and tastes gourmet, without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to make Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Ingredients:
- 200g penne pasta
- 200g chicken breast, diced
- 200g mushrooms, sliced
- 100g asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus, cooking until they are tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Then stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to serve Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of flavor. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying dinner.
How to store Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place the penne in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Tips to make Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
- Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding the vegetables.
- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Adding more garlic or herbs can enhance the dish.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta of your choice, such as fettuccine or farfalle.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best to cook this dish fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead. Just combine them with the sauce and pasta when ready to serve.
3. Is it possible to make it lighter?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream, or even Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative. Just be careful not to boil the yogurt to prevent curdling.
Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 200 g penne pasta
- 200 g chicken breast, diced Use fresh chicken for best results.
- 200 g mushrooms, sliced Any variety of mushrooms can be used.
- 100 g asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces Use fresh asparagus for optimal flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, substitute with low-fat cream or Greek yogurt.
- 1 cup chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adjust quantity to taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
Cooking
- Add the sliced mushrooms and asparagus, cooking until they are tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Then stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.