Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne

### Instructions

1. **Cook the Chicken:**
– Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet, set it aside, and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.

2. **Prepare the Pasta:**
– While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. **Cook the Vegetables:**
– In the same skillet you used for the chicken, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the mushrooms over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften.
– Add the asparagus pieces and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.

4. **Make the Creamy Sauce:**
– In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
– Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
– Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. **Combine the Dish:**
– Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until well-coated.
– Add the cooked chicken and sautéed vegetables to the skillet, mixing everything together. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld together.

6. **Serve:**
– Serve the Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

### Tips for the Best Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne:

– **Chicken Substitution:** For a different twist, try using grilled chicken thighs for added flavor or even swap in shrimp for a seafood variation.
– **Vegetable Variations:** If you’re a fan of other vegetables, you can easily swap the asparagus for spinach, peas, or even zucchini.
– **Sauce Consistency:** If the sauce gets too thick after sitting, simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk to bring it back to a creamy consistency.
– **Make-Ahead Option:** The pasta, chicken, and sauce can all be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick and easy meal later on.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a rich, flavorful dish that brings together all the best elements of comfort food—tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The earthy mushrooms and fresh asparagus add texture and flavor that perfectly complement the creamy sauce, creating a dish that’s both decadent and satisfying.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s an easy-to-make, all-in-one meal that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So, go ahead and indulge in this creamy, dreamy chicken penne—you deserve it!