Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne
Creamy Mushroom & Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich yet fresh pasta dish made with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked penne tossed in a light, creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Inspired by Mediterranean-style cream sauces, this dish feels indulgent but balanced—ideal for lunch, dinner, or special occasions without being overly heavy.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta
250 g penne pasta
Water, for boiling
Salt, for pasta water
For the Chicken & Veggies
2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
1 cup asparagus, cut into 1½-inch pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp black pepper
Salt, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Sauce
1 cup cooking cream or light cream
(or ¾ cup milk + ¼ cup cream for lighter version)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp lemon zest
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ cup reserved pasta water
Garnish
Fresh parsley or basil
Extra Parmesan
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ¼ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add chicken slices, season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
Cook for 5–6 minutes, turning until golden and fully cooked.
Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
3. Saute Mushrooms & Asparagus
In the same pan, add mushrooms and saute 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add asparagus and cook 2–3 minutes until tender-crisp.
Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower heat and pour in cream.
Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, and nutmeg.
Add reserved pasta water gradually until sauce is silky and smooth.
Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes (do not boil).
5. Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken back to the pan.
Add penne pasta and toss well to coat evenly.
Taste and adjust salt or pepper.
6. Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan.
Serve warm and creamy.
Tips & Notes
Extra creamy: Add 1 tbsp cream cheese.
Healthier: Use half cream + half milk.
No cream version: Use Greek yogurt (off heat) for a tangy sauce.
More veggies: Spinach or peas work beautifully.
Non-spicy: Gentle and family-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use another pasta?
Yes—fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti work well.
Q2: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but add a splash of milk when reheating.
Q3: Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, thaw and pat dry before using.
Q4: Is this freezer-friendly?
Cream sauces are best fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: 36 g
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 5 g
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: ~420 mg