Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta with Asparagus
Introduction
Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta with Asparagus is a luxurious, restaurant-quality dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, fresh asparagus, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, velvety cream sauce. This dish is a perfect combination of comfort and elegance, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and parmesan, coats every bite, while the asparagus adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich flavors. Whether you’re a pasta lover, a fan of creamy dishes, or someone who enjoys well-balanced flavors, this recipe will become one of your favorites.
This dish is inspired by classic Italian flavors, with a touch of modern culinary flair. It takes the best elements of Alfredo, carbonara, and primavera and blends them into a satisfying, hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Rich and Creamy – A decadent, velvety sauce that’s restaurant-worthy.
✅ Perfectly Balanced – The fresh asparagus and mushrooms add a wonderful contrast to the creamy sauce.
✅ Easy to Make – A straightforward recipe that looks and tastes gourmet.
✅ Versatile – Customize with different proteins, vegetables, or pasta types.
✅ Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
• 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Chicken:
• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Vegetables:
• 1½ cups mushrooms (sliced, button or cremini)
• 1 cup asparagus (trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Cream Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
1. Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
4. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In the same pan, add butter and let it melt.
2. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add asparagus and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
1. Lower the heat to medium-low.
2. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring constantly.
3. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
4. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine Everything
1. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan.
2. Stir in the drained pasta.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
1. Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!
The History of Creamy Pasta Dishes
Creamy pasta dishes have a deep-rooted history in Italian and European cuisine. Alfredo sauce, one of the most well-known creamy sauces, originated in Rome in the early 20th century when Alfredo di Lelio created it for his pregnant wife. Over time, variations of creamy pasta dishes have evolved, incorporating ingredients like chicken, seafood, and vegetables.
The addition of mushrooms and asparagus gives this dish a unique balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite among modern pasta lovers.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This dish is not just indulgent; it also has several nutritional benefits:
✅ High in Protein – Chicken provides a great source of lean protein for muscle growth and repair.
✅ Rich in Vitamins & Minerals – Asparagus is packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K.
✅ Good for Digestion – Mushrooms and asparagus contain fiber, which supports gut health.
✅ Boosts Energy – Pasta is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months (note that the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating).
Reheating:
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
• Microwave: Heat in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Who Loves This Dish?
This dish is perfect for everyone, but it’s especially loved by:
• Pasta Lovers – A dream dish for those who crave creamy, rich pasta.
• Busy Professionals – Easy to make, store, and reheat for busy weeknights.
• Families – Kid-friendly flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Date Night Cooks – A romantic, gourmet meal that’s easy to prepare at home.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 580 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
(Values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)
Final Thoughts on Creamy Chicken Mushroom Pasta
This dish is a beautiful blend of flavors, textures, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this creamy pasta will impress anyone who tries it.
Try it today and bring a taste of Italian-inspired luxury to your table!