
This rustic pasta dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms and fresh asparagus in a silky cream sauce. The rich aroma fills the kitchen as the garlic and herbs meld with al dente penne, creating an elegant yet approachable meal perfect for both weeknights and special occasions.
The inspiration for this dish came from finding vibrant spring asparagus at my local market. What started as a simple experiment has become a cherished family favorite. The combination of ingredients creates layers of flavor while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare.
Key Ingredients
- Penne: Ridged pasta that perfectly captures the creamy sauce
- Chicken breast: Cut into even pieces for consistent cooking
- Mushrooms: Fresh cremini or button mushrooms provide hearty texture
- Asparagus: Fresh spears add color and seasonal flavor
- Garlic: Fresh minced cloves for aromatic depth
- Heavy cream: Creates luxurious sauce texture
- Chicken stock: Adds savory foundation
- Parmesan: Freshly grated for optimal melting
- Parsley: Fresh herbs for brightness

Cooking Instructions
Pasta PreparationCook penne in well-salted water until just al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.
Chicken TechniqueHeat oil until shimmering. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown, developing flavor through proper caramelization. Season throughout cooking process.
Vegetable PreparationUsing chicken fond as a base, brown mushrooms thoroughly before adding asparagus. Allow vegetables to develop color while maintaining texture.
Sauce DevelopmentSauté garlic until fragrant, then add liquids and reduce. Incorporate cheese off heat, stirring constantly for smooth integration.
Serving Ideas
Serve in wide bowls alongside crusty bread for sauce-soaking. Pair with a crisp green salad and light white wine like Pinot Grigio to balance the richness.
Recipe Variations
Try Italian sausage or seafood instead of chicken. Add spinach for extra vegetables. Winter alternatives include broccoli or green beans when asparagus isn't in season.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of liquid to restore sauce consistency. Flavors often improve overnight.

Professional Tips
- Toast and grind whole peppercorns for enhanced flavor
- Infuse stock with asparagus ends
- Add cream cheese for extra creaminess
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch to a different pasta type?
- Absolutely! Alternatives like bow ties, fusilli, or rotini will work perfectly.
- → Is there a way to lighten the sauce?
- Try using milk with a tablespoon of flour, or swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
- → Can I change the veggies in this recipe?
- Yes! Peas, broccoli, or fresh spinach are also great additions.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a little milk when reheating to revive the sauce.
- → How do I make this vegetarian-friendly?
- Leave out the chicken and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.