Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

August 16, 2025 by admin

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#### For the creamy sauce:

* 1 tbsp butter
* 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
* ½ cup chicken broth
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh lemon zest

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### 👩‍🍳 How to Make It

#### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**

Cook penne according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

#### **Step 2: Sauté the Chicken**

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken slices and cook until golden and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

#### **Step 3: Cook the Veggies**

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté mushrooms until browned and tender, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Toss in the asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.

#### **Step 4: Make the Sauce**

Push the veggies to the side and melt butter in the pan. Pour in cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. For a kick, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes.

#### **Step 5: Combine and Finish**

Return the chicken to the pan. Add the cooked pasta and stir everything together. If the sauce is too thick, use a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Let everything heat through for 1–2 minutes, then serve hot, topped with extra cheese and a sprinkle of parsley or lemon zest if desired.

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### 🍽️ Serving Suggestions

* A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
* Warm garlic bread or crusty sourdough
* A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay

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### 💡 Tips & Variations

* Swap chicken for shrimp or leave it out for a vegetarian version.
* Add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for extra depth.
* Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for dietary preferences.
* Want it lighter? Sub the cream with evaporated milk or a plant-based alternative.

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### 🌟 Final Thought

**Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne** is one of those meals that feels indulgent but comes together simply and quickly. It’s rich, fresh, and full of flavor — the kind of dinner you’ll crave again and again.

So grab your skillet, pour yourself something chilled, and treat yourself to a bowl of this creamy, dreamy pasta perfection.

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Would you like a printable version of the recipe or a low-carb variation? Just let me know — I’m happy to help!