If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, fresh veggies, and velvety sauce, look no further than this Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed in a luxurious lemony cream sauce, guaranteed to become your new weeknight favorite or impress guests effortlessly. The harmony of textures and bright flavors makes every bite a delightful experience that’s both comforting and elegant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward, quality ingredients sets the foundation for this recipe, each playing a vital role in bringing depth, color, and taste to your plate. From the juicy chicken breasts to the fresh snap of asparagus, every element shines and makes the cooking process a pleasure.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Offer tender protein that soaks up all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh asparagus: Adds vibrant color and a deliciously crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Pasta (fettuccine or penne): Provides the hearty, comforting base to carry the rich sauce and ingredients.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Gives a fragrant, fruity richness when sautéing the chicken and veggies.
- Minced garlic: Infuses warm aromatic notes that elevate every mouthful.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a nutty, salty finish that melts into the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Creates that luscious texture that ties everything together smoothly.
- Lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy zing that balances the richness beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and adjusting flavors to your liking.
How to Make Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—this is key for flavorful pasta. Cook your choice of fettuccine or penne according to the package directions until it’s al dente, meaning still firm to the bite. Drain and set it aside, so it’s ready to receive the creamy sauce and ingredients in just a moment.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your diced and well-seasoned chicken breasts. Let them cook undisturbed for 7 to 8 minutes until each piece develops a golden-brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds irresistible flavor and texture.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Asparagus
Next, toss in the minced garlic and trimmed asparagus pieces directly with the chicken. Cook together for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the garlic becomes fragrant and the asparagus turns a bright green. This brief sauté keeps the asparagus tender yet crisp and infuses the dish with aromatic zest.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and gently pour in the heavy cream and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir everything to combine and let it simmer for around 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken while the lemon brightens the rich cream base. This silky sauce is the heart of the Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta Recipe.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Parmesan
Finally, add the drained pasta straight into the skillet. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over everything and toss thoroughly to coat every strand and piece with that irresistible creamy, cheesy goodness. The cheese melts into the sauce, creating a dreamy coating that clings beautifully.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Dish up your pasta onto warm plates and don’t forget to offer extra Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper on top. This finishing touch not only enhances flavor but also adds a lovely rustic look that invites you to dig in.
How to Serve Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle more grated Parmesan or fresh cracked pepper for extra flavor punch. A scattering of fresh chopped parsley or basil also adds a pop of color and a fragrant finish that complements the creamy sauce magnificently.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some warm garlic bread to soak up any lingering sauce. Roasted cherry tomatoes or a simple cucumber salad also make perfect companions, keeping the meal fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant asparagus and golden chicken bites against the creamy sauce. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon zest curls on top adds a gourmet touch that feels special without fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a tasty next-day meal, but be sure to keep it chilled to maintain freshness and food safety.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, freeze in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Because of the cream sauce, freezing can slightly change the texture, so it’s ideal for a short-term option rather than long-term storage.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of water or cream to bring back the sauce’s silky texture. Microwave reheating works too, but be careful to heat in short bursts with stirring to prevent overcooking the chicken or drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne are ideal for holding the creamy sauce well, feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand, like farfalle or rigatoni. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. The flavors will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cook the chicken pieces until they’re golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cutting into one piece to check the juices run clear is a good visual cue as well.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a dinner party?
You can prepare the sauce and chicken separately in advance and refrigerate, then cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving. This keeps the dish fresh and saves time on party day.
What’s the best way to get fresh asparagus for this recipe?
Choose firm, bright green spears with closed tips. Thicker spears are great for sautéing because they stay crunchy and add great texture alongside the tender chicken and creamy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta Recipe is a true gem you’ll want to make again and again. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and has that perfect balance of creamy, fresh, and savory notes that make it so memorable. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it quickly becomes a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken and asparagus pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed with fresh asparagus and garlic, then tossed with fettuccine in a rich Parmesan cream sauce brightened with lemon juice.
Ingredients
Protein
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh asparagus
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Dairy
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Others
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add garlic and asparagus: Add minced garlic and chopped asparagus to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the asparagus turns bright green but remains slightly crisp.
- Make the cream sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the drained pasta and grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, mixing everything well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and cracked black pepper to taste.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh asparagus with tender tips.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Ensure to not overcook the asparagus to maintain its crunch and vibrant color.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
