Creamy Mushroom Asparagus Chicken Pasta is the perfect comfort food that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This one-pot meal is both hearty and satisfying, offering a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and pasta in every bite. It’s ideal for busy weeknights but elegant enough for a weekend dinner party.
The creamy sauce made from chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious texture that coats the pasta and vegetables beautifully. Meanwhile, the mushrooms and asparagus add depth and freshness, balancing out the richness of the cream. This versatile dish can also be customized with different vegetables or spices, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan-infused sauce is velvety and flavorful.
• Easy One-Pot Meal: Simple steps with minimal cleanup.
• Customizable: Swap vegetables or spices to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
1. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and asparagus.
2. Cook over medium heat until the mushrooms are browned and the asparagus is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
1. Reduce heat to low and melt the butter in the skillet.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a paste (this creates a roux).
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
1. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until melted.
2. Return the chicken, mushrooms, asparagus, and cooked pasta to the skillet.
3. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
4. Cook for another 2-3 minutes over low heat until everything is warmed through.
5. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
1. Plate the creamy pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.
Tips
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor than pre-grated versions.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Add a Splash of Lemon: A little lemon zest or juice can brighten up the flavors.
• Try Other Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, or peas also pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
• Garlic Bread: A crunchy slice of garlic bread pairs perfectly with this creamy pasta.
• Fresh Salad: Serve alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• White Wine: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
