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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Juice of ½ lemon (for freshness)
How to Make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1️⃣ Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2️⃣ Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Season the sliced chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3️⃣ Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
4️⃣ Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
1️⃣ In the same pan, melt butter and add sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2️⃣ Add asparagus and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly tender.
3️⃣ Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
1️⃣ Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
2️⃣ Add parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
3️⃣ Squeeze in lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
1️⃣ Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the pan. Toss everything together until well coated.
2️⃣ Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
3️⃣ Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) if desired.
Serving & Storage Tips
🍽 Serve hot, paired with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
❄️ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Recipe Tips & Variations
✔ Make it lighter – Swap heavy cream for milk or use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
✔ Add extra protein – Try shrimp, bacon, or even tofu for variety.
✔ Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular penne.
✔ Spice it up – Add chili flakes or Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a comforting, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in just 30 minutes. With rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner winner!
Try this delicious and easy pasta recipe today—you’ll want to make it again and again! 🍝✨
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