Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! It’s a pasta lover’s dream come true, filled with tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and earthy mushrooms all wrapped in the most luscious creamy sauce. Seriously, every bite feels like a warm hug! I remember the first time I made it for my friends; they were practically licking their plates clean! It’s such a quick meal to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough to impress at dinner parties. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! First things first, you’ll want to cook the penne pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add in the penne. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it just right because it’ll finish cooking in the sauce!
While that’s happening, grab a large skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken and sauté it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Oh, the smell of sizzling chicken is just heavenly!
Next, add the minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and asparagus pieces to the skillet. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes until the veggies are tender and vibrant. Wow, your kitchen will smell divine right about now!
Now, here comes the best part! Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. This is where the creamy goodness begins! After a minute or two, stir in that glorious grated parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it’s melted and the sauce is silky smooth.
Finally, add the cooked penne to the skillet, and give it a good toss to coat the pasta in that rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Voila! Your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is ready to be devoured. Enjoy every creamy, dreamy bite!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a typical breakdown of what you can expect from a serving of this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne. Keep in mind, these values are just estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
This dish is wonderfully rich and satisfying, perfect for a hearty meal! Whether you’re counting macros or just enjoying a delicious dinner, you’ll definitely feel good about treating yourself to this creamy delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! Here are just a few:
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy sauce that envelops every bite of pasta.
- Fresh asparagus and mushrooms add vibrant flavor and texture.
- Comforting yet elegant enough for dinner parties.
- Hearty and satisfying, packed with protein to keep you full.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my top tips for nailing this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make your cooking experience even better.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the penne just until al dente. It’ll continue to cook a bit when you mix it with the sauce, and you don’t want it mushy!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh asparagus and mushrooms make a world of difference in flavor. If you can, grab them from your local market for the best taste.
- Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream and add a splash of chicken broth for extra flavor without the added richness.
- Season as You Go: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning at each stage! A little salt and pepper can enhance all those delicious flavors.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken a bit and makes it easier to serve.
- Experiment with Cheese: While parmesan is classic, don’t be afraid to mix it up! A bit of mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta on top can add a delightful twist.
Following these tips will help elevate your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne from good to absolutely fantastic! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is how adaptable it is! You can totally switch things up based on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Vegetable Medley: Feel free to replace asparagus and mushrooms with other veggies! Broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach can add a lovely pop of color and nutrition.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or parsley can elevate the dish even more! Toss in a handful right before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the skillet when cooking the chicken. It’ll add a delightful heat!
- Protein Power: Swap the chicken for shrimp or even sautéed sausage! Both options bring their own unique flavors to the creamy sauce.
- Cheese Variety: Instead of just parmesan, try mixing in some creamy goat cheese or a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra cheesiness. Yum!
- Low-Carb Twist: For a lighter version, use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of penne. It’s a fun way to enjoy the same creamy sauce without the carbs!
Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear about your favorite combos!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have this scrumptious creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your meal even further! Trust me, these pairings will complement the dish beautifully and create a delightful dining experience.
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce. Plus, who doesn’t love a little carb on carb action?
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. It’s a great way to incorporate some veggies!
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs make a colorful and healthy addition to your plate. Plus, the caramelized flavors of roasted veggies are simply divine!
- Steamed Broccoli: If you want to keep it simple, steamed broccoli drizzled with a bit of lemon juice is a classic choice. It adds a nice crunch and a pop of color!
- Wine Pairing: For the adults at the table, a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio can complement the creamy flavors beautifully. It’s a lovely touch for a dinner party or special occasion!
These suggestions will help round out your meal and impress your family or guests. Enjoy the whole experience, and dig in! You’re going to love it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers of creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne! First off, make sure to let the dish cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation from forming and keep your pasta nice and creamy!
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—trust me, you might find yourself looking forward to that second helping even more than the first!
When it’s time to reheat, you can simply pop it in the microwave. Just make sure to cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. You might want to add a splash of cream or a bit of chicken broth to revive that creamy texture; it works like a charm!
If you prefer reheating on the stovetop, transfer the pasta to a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth, and gently stir until everything is heated through and creamy again. This method allows you to control the heat better and avoid any hot spots.
And voila! You’re all set to enjoy your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne again, just as delightful as the first time. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can switch it up with any pasta you love. Fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti will work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne ahead of time! Just cook everything as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently when you’re ready to serve. Just be cautious, as the pasta may absorb some sauce, so consider adding a splash of cream when reheating to keep it creamy.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even whole milk, but keep in mind that the sauce won’t be as rich and creamy. For a non-dairy alternative, you could try coconut cream or a cashew cream blend for that luscious texture!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even bell peppers would add a lovely flavor and texture. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms and asparagus for a colorful twist!
How do I store leftovers?
Store your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to keep everything fresh and delicious!
For more delicious recipes, check out this creamy truffle pasta recipe or this vegetable pasta dish!
Z nadrukami
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Blissful Delight
- Całkowity Czas: 35 minutes
- Ustępować: 4 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
Creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne is a delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce.
Składniki
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instrukcje
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add garlic, mushrooms, and asparagus. Cook until vegetables are tender.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked penne with the sauce and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Uwagi
- Use fresh asparagus for best flavor.
- Adjust cream and cheese for desired creaminess.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 20 minutes
- Kategoria: Pasta
- Sposób: Stovetop
- Kuchnia: Italian
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 cup
- Kalorie: 600
- Cukier: 2g
- Sód: 800mg
- Kwasy: 35g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 20g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 10g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 50g
- Włókno: 3g
- Białko: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Słowa kluczowe: creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne, pasta dish, chicken recipe
