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This penne with chicken, mushrooms, and asparagus is creamy and cozy. It mixes juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a smooth sauce that's like a warm embrace. Perfect for those busy weeknight meals or relaxed dinners when you want something both tasty and a bit fancy.
I whipped this up first to use asparagus and mushrooms taking up space in the fridge. But I ended hooked on how the flavors played together. Now it’s a go-to family meal we keep coming back to.
Needed Ingredients
Step-by-Step Cooking
One cool trick I love is letting the mushrooms sit without stirring at first so they get a little caramelized and rich flavor. This dish shines at cozy dinners where everyone enjoys the warmth around the table.
Storing Tips
Swapping Ideas
Great Sides to Serve
Seasonal Flips
This dish always reminds me of simple family dinners that were both cozy and satisfying. The combo of textures and flavors turns everyday cooking into something special and comforting.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → What’s the trick to keeping chicken juicy?
Cook chicken over medium heat, don’t crowd the pan, and let it sit undisturbed till it browns. That keeps it moist and tasty.
- → How do I cook asparagus the right way here?
Cut asparagus into pieces about 1.5 inches long and sauté them with mushrooms and garlic quickly so they stay tender but still a bit crisp and bright.
- → Can I swap penne for another pasta?
Sure, rigatoni or fusilli work well too since they hold the sauce nicely and match the creamy texture.
- → How do I stop the sauce from breaking?
Keep the cream and broth simmering gently, add Parmesan little by little, and stir. Don’t let it boil hard or it might curdle.
- → Is there a way to make this lighter but still creamy?
Try half-and-half instead of heavy cream or mix milk with cream cheese. You get creaminess without all the fat.