Delicious Chicken Penne with Mushroom in 40 Minutes

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Chicken Penne with Mushroom is the perfect dish for a busy weeknight. This one-pan meal combines tender chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and crisp asparagus, all enveloped in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. With its comforting texture and delightful taste, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Penne with Mushroom

This Chicken Penne Pasta dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also offers numerous benefits. First, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup time—perfect for those hectic evenings! Second, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the asparagus, making it a nutritious choice. Third, the creamy sauce is so indulgent that it feels like a treat. Additionally, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in just 40 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy families. Plus, the use of fresh ingredients ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. This recipe is not just quick; it’s a Chicken Penne with Mushrooms Recipe that delivers on taste and quality!

Ingredients for Chicken Penne with Mushroom

Gather these items:

12 –14 oz penne pasta
2 –3 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
10 oz mushrooms (sliced)
8 –10 oz asparagus (trimmed and cut into 1–1.5 inch pieces)
3 –4 garlic cloves (minced)
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
Optional: lemon zest or juice for brightness
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or basil

How to Make Chicken Penne with Mushroom Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté mushrooms until they start to brown. Add asparagus and cook for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Step 4: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional lemon zest or juice.
Step 7: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.
Step 8: Serve warm, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Penne with Mushroom

Keep these in mind:

Always cook the pasta until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Feel free to substitute the asparagus with other vegetables like spinach or broccoli for variation.
This dish is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Ways to Serve Chicken Penne with Mushroom

For an enjoyable dining experience, pair this dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine to enhance the meal. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top or add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors. This Chicken Penne Alfredo with Mushrooms is versatile and can be adapted to your taste preferences!

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Penne with Mushroom

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This dish can be a great meal prep option, allowing you to enjoy a comforting dinner even on the busiest nights!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Penne with Mushroom

What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Penne with Mushroom?

The secret lies in cooking the pasta just right and not overcooking the vegetables. The balance of flavors from the cream, Parmesan, and fresh ingredients creates a delightful dish.

Can I make Chicken Penne with Mushroom ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine them with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a quick dinner option!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Penne with Mushroom?

Avoid overcooking the pasta and vegetables. Also, be careful not to add too much salt before tasting, as the Parmesan cheese can contribute additional saltiness.

Variations of Chicken Penne with Mushroom You Can Try

There are plenty of delicious twists to this Chicken Penne with Mushrooms Recipe. You can try a Chicken and Mushroom Penne Bake by adding a breadcrumb topping and baking it in the oven until golden. Another variation is the Chicken Penne Primavera, where you can add a variety of colorful vegetables. For a lighter option, consider making an Easy Chicken Penne with Mushroom Sauce by using less cream and adding more broth. Finally, a Homemade Chicken Penne with Mushroom recipe can include your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized touch!

For more delicious recipes, check out Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta or Creamy Parmesan Italian Beef. You can also explore Garlic Butter Baked Chicken for another tasty option!

For additional information on the health benefits of mushrooms, visit Healthline.