Creamy Penne Pasta with Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus
This indulgent yet easy-to-make pasta dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crisp asparagus in a velvety cream sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the mushrooms and asparagus for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. - Make the Sauce:
Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. - Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Weight Watchers Points:
10 points per serving.
This Creamy Penne Pasta with Chicken, Mushrooms, and Asparagus is a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and elegant. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!