Looking for a hearty meal that’s both creamy and healthy? You’re in the right place! My Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne Delight pairs tender chicken with rich mushrooms and fresh asparagus. This dish is not just delicious, but also easy to make. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a recipe to impress, this is it. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients List
To create your creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne, gather these key ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Cooking Equipment Needed
You will need some basic tools to make this dish:
– Large pot for boiling pasta
– Large skillet for sautéing
– Wooden spoon for stirring
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Cutting board and knife for prep
– Colander for draining pasta
Suggested Pairings
This creamy dish pairs well with a few things:
– A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
– Garlic bread for a crunchy side
– A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio
– Fresh fruit for a light dessert
For the full recipe and cooking instructions, check out the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Penne Pasta
First, fill a large pot with water. Add salt to the water, then bring it to a boil. When it boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook it as the package says, usually about 10-12 minutes. You want it al dente, which means firm but cooked. After it’s ready, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
Next, grab a large skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cut 1 lb of chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and be cooked all the way through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm.
Preparing the Vegetables and Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Now it’s time for the fun part: the veggies! Slice 8 oz of cremini mushrooms and add them to the skillet. Sauté these for about 3 minutes until they soften. Then, toss in 1 cup of asparagus cut into 2-inch pieces. Cook this for another 2-3 minutes. Add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. The smell will be amazing!
Now, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let this simmer for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to thicken just a bit.
Combining the Ingredients for Final Cooking
Time to bring everything together! Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Then, toss in the drained penne pasta. Sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and mix it all well. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up a bit.
Once everything is combined, taste it. Adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Now, you’re ready to serve this creamy mushroom and asparagus chicken penne delight!
For the complete details, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Penne
To cook the perfect penne, start with a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a boil before adding your pasta. Cook the penne until it is al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside. Avoid rinsing, as the starch helps the sauce cling later.
How to Enhance Creaminess
To make your dish even creamier, use high-quality heavy cream. When adding the cream to the skillet, keep the heat low. This gentle heat allows the cream to blend smoothly without curdling. You can also add a bit of cream cheese for extra richness. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. This will still give you a creamy texture without being too heavy.
Flavor Boosters & Seasoning Suggestions
Enhance the flavors in your dish by using fresh herbs. Basil and thyme work well, adding a fresh aroma. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a deeper taste, try adding a splash of white wine when cooking the vegetables. This adds a nice depth to your sauce. Don’t forget to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A little squeeze of lemon juice can brighten all the flavors too.
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Variations
Vegetarian Version of Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
You can easily make this dish meat-free. Swap out the chicken for 1 cup of firm tofu. Cut the tofu into small cubes. Sauté the tofu in olive oil until golden. Keep the other steps the same. The mushrooms and asparagus still shine in the creamy sauce. This version gives you a tasty meal packed with flavor and nutrients.
Alternative Protein Options
If you want a different protein, try shrimp or salmon. For shrimp, use about 1 pound and sauté them just like the chicken. Cook until they turn pink. For salmon, choose about 1 pound of boneless filets. Bake or pan-sear the salmon until it flakes easily. Then, flake the salmon into the pasta at the end. Both options add a nice twist to this creamy dish.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap the penne pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, like rice or quinoa pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package. Ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without worry.
For more details, check the Full Recipe to see how easy it is to adapt this dish!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne fresh, start by cooling it down. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This method prevents moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. You can store the dish in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to label the container with the date.
Reheating Tips
Reheating is easy and quick. You can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a little chicken broth to a pan. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently until warm. If using the microwave, place a portion in a safe dish. Cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat for one minute, then stir. Repeat until hot.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save it for later, freezing works too. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it according to the tips above. Enjoy your creamy penne again!
FAQs
How long can I store Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne?
You can store Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This helps keep the dish fresh and tasty.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook everything and let it cool. Then, store it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
If you want to substitute heavy cream, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. For a lighter option, you can also use Greek yogurt. Just mix it with a bit of broth to keep the sauce creamy.
How to make it spicier or add more flavor?
To make this dish spicier, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also boost the flavor by adding fresh herbs, like basil or thyme. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish too. For more depth, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives. Enjoy experimenting!
For a full guide on making this delicious meal, check out the Full Recipe.
This blog post covered all you need to make Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne. You learned about key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for great flavor. We also explored variations to suit different diets and how to store leftovers.
Mastering this dish helps you impress at meals or gatherings. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen with your newfound skills!
