Description
This Delicious Chicken and Asparagus Pasta recipe is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are sautéed with fresh asparagus and garlic, then combined with al dente pasta and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, enhanced by a hint of lemon for brightness.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Sauté garlic and asparagus: Add minced garlic and chopped asparagus to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the asparagus becomes bright green but still crisp.
- Make the sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, then simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Toss the cooked and drained pasta into the skillet. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix well to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it might be less creamy.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
