Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne
Indulge in a delicious Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne that's easy to make and packed with flavor! 🍝🌱
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For boiling pasta.
- 1 Large Skillet For sautéing ingredients.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta Choose whole wheat or gluten-free options if preferred.
Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast Look for fresh, organic chicken for the best flavor.
Vegetables
- 1 cup asparagus Fresh asparagus adds a vibrant crunch; feel free to substitute with green beans if needed.
- 8 ounces mushrooms Button or cremini mushrooms work wonderfully, adding an earthy depth.
- 2 cloves garlic Fresh garlic enhances the dish's aroma; minced garlic can be used in a pinch.
- 1 small onion A sweet onion will add a lovely sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil This is perfect for sautéing; you can also use avocado oil for a different flavor.
- 1 cup vegetable broth Homemade or store-bought, this adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 cup cream alternative Consider using cashew cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
Seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper Season to taste, but remember that the broth may already contain salt.
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- 1. Cook the Penne: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- 2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your creamy sauce.
- 3. Cook the Chicken: Next, add sliced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Ensure you stir occasionally to cook evenly. If you notice any browning on the bottom of the pan, that’s flavor building!
- 4. Add Vegetables: Now, it’s time to incorporate the sliced mushrooms and asparagus. Stir them into the skillet and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant. This will add a lovely texture and color to your dish.
- 5. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in your chosen cream alternative and vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add more cream alternative at this stage.
- 6. Combine with Pasta: Finally, add the cooked penne to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more broth or cream alternative to achieve your desired consistency.
- 7. Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is combined, serve your Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne hot. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a vegan cheese alternative for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your meal!