CREAMY MUSHROOM AND ASPARAGUS CHICKEN PENNE 🍝🍗

A rich and comforting pasta dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, and a luscious creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or when you want to impress with minimal effort!


INGREDIENTS:

  • 🍗 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 🍝 8 oz penne pasta
  • 🫒 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 🍄 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 🌿 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
  • 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
  • 🧈 Optional: 1 tbsp butter (for extra richness)
  • 🧀 Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cook the pasta:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the chicken:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the vegetables:

  1. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
  2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their moisture.
  3. Stir in the asparagus pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp.
  4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Make the creamy sauce:

  1. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  2. If desired, stir in butter for added richness and creaminess.

5. Combine everything:

  1. Return the cooked chicken slices to the skillet, along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve:

  1. Divide the pasta among plates or bowls.
  2. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

TIPS AND VARIATIONS:

  • Add protein boost: Include crispy bacon or pancetta for extra flavor and texture.
  • Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth as a base for the sauce. Add roasted red peppers or spinach for variety.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free penne or your favorite gluten-free pasta alternative.
  • Extra veggies: Feel free to toss in zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or peas for more color and nutrients.

BENEFITS:

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Balanced meal: Combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one satisfying dish.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (APPROXIMATE PER SERVING):

(Based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 450-500
  • Protein: 25-30 grams
  • Fat: 20-25 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 40-45 grams

Enjoy this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne! 🍝🍄✨ It’s a decadent yet simple dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let me know how it turns out and any tweaks you make! ❤️

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