If you’ve ever craved something creamy, cozy, and deeply satisfying, but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne might just become your new midweek hero.
It’s the kind of dish that feels restaurant-level fancy, yet simple enough to pull off on a Wednesday night after work. Imagine tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus tangled in velvety cream sauce… yeah, it’s that good.

Whether you’re cooking for family, date night, or just yourself (because you deserve it), this pasta brings comfort and brightness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pasta & Protein

12 oz penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil

Vegetables

1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or white button)
1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

Seasonings

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: ¼ cup reserved pasta water for thinning

Substitutions:

Use half-and-half or light cream for fewer calories.
Swap asparagus with broccoli, spinach, or peas.
Replace chicken with tofu or shrimp for a twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
Add the Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in mushrooms and asparagus. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still vibrant green.
Make It Creamy
Lower the heat slightly and pour in heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan. Once the cream starts to simmer, add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
Bring It All Together
Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in some reserved pasta water until it’s silky and glossy.
Serve & Enjoy
Plate the pasta, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top, and serve warm. Optional garnish: cracked black pepper or fresh parsley.

Tips & Tricks for the Best Creamy Chicken Penne

Balance the flavors: Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest for a subtle lift.
Don’t overcook asparagus: It should stay slightly crisp for texture contrast.
Want extra richness? Add a knob of butter before serving.
Make ahead: Cook chicken and veggies earlier; finish with cream and pasta later.

Easy Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for extra mushrooms or sautéed tofu.
Low-fat option: Use light cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
Spicy kick: Stir in ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
Gourmet twist: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding cream — it deepens flavor beautifully.

What to Serve With Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

Side: Garlic bread, arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted tomatoes.
Drink Pairing: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess.
Dessert Idea: Lemon bars or panna cotta to finish on a light note.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the sauce and pasta separately, combine before serving, and reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.

Can I freeze it?

Freezing creamy sauces isn’t ideal — they can separate. But you can freeze the cooked chicken and vegetables, then make the sauce fresh next time.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. It saves time — just add it after the sauce thickens so it doesn’t overcook.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 38g
Fat: 32g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: ~520mg

(Values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands.)

Why This Recipe Works

It’s all about contrast, the earthy bite of mushrooms, the freshness of asparagus, and the creamy depth of Parmesan. The sauce clings perfectly to the penne, turning every forkful into a balanced mix of richness and freshness.
It’s proof that weeknight cooking doesn’t have to be boring, or complicated.

Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne isn’t just a recipe, it’s a feeling. The kind of meal that says you’re home now; slow down, eat well. It’s indulgent without guilt, quick without shortcuts, and always satisfying.

If you try it, let me know how it turned out, or share your twist on it below. Cooking is better when it’s shared