Looking for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? This Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and satisfying—all in one skillet. With tender slices of chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, vibrant asparagus, and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is comfort food elevated.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, hosting friends, or treating yourself to something special, this creamy chicken pasta checks every box: fast, easy, and utterly delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Less cleanup, more flavor.

• Ready in 30 minutes – Ideal for weeknight dinners.

• Family-friendly – A creamy pasta dish that even picky eaters will devour.

• Versatile – Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein swaps.

• Restaurant quality – Rich, creamy sauce with deep flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this creamy pasta perfection:

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups cremini or white mushrooms, sliced

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

These ingredients combine to create a comforting, well-balanced pasta dish bursting with flavor, texture, and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions.

• Drain and set aside. Reserve a little pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

2. Cook the Chicken

• In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

• Add the sliced chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.

• Season with salt and pepper, then remove the chicken and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes.

• Add asparagus and minced garlic and sauté for another 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp and fragrant.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce

• Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

• Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Combine Everything

• Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet.

• Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley.

• Serve warm and enjoy the creamy comfort of this Italian-style dish.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta

• Large skillet or sauté pan

• Chef’s knife and cutting board

• Garlic press or microplane (optional)

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Strainer/colander

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh Parmesan – It melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated.

• Don’t overcook the pasta – Al dente texture works best for soaking up the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

• Cook chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming and ensure browning.

• Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or white wine after cooking the chicken for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is easy to tailor to your tastes or pantry items. Try some of these variations:

• Protein swap – Use shrimp, turkey, or rotisserie chicken.

• Go vegetarian – Skip the chicken and add more mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.

• Use spinach or kale – Add greens at the end for extra nutrients.

• Spice it up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

• Different pasta – Try fettuccine, rigatoni, or gluten-free options.

How to Store and Reheat

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
Warm on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between.

Freezing:
Not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate when frozen and thawed.

Food Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.

• Pair with a green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze.

• Wine pairing: A crisp white like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the cream sauce beautifully.

• Non-alcoholic: Try a sparkling water with lemon or a cold brewed iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or add a little cream cheese for thickness.

What’s the best way to cut asparagus for this recipe?

Trim off the woody ends and cut into 2-inch diagonal pieces for even cooking and a nice presentation.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken a day ahead. Store separately and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Penne Pasta with Creamy Chicken and Mushrooms brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s the perfect dish for when you want something hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor—but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

If this dish hit the spot, don’t keep it a secret—share it with your friends, and be sure to subscribe to the blog for more easy, satisfying meals made with love and real ingredients. 🍝✨