Looking for a quick, delicious, and easy meal that everyone in the family will devour? Chicken Asparagus Pasta is the perfect option! This creamy dish combines the goodness of juicy chicken, tender asparagus, and flavorful pasta, all brought together by a zesty lemon sauce. Not only is this recipe a simple, 30-minute meal, but it’s also packed with flavors that will make it a new staple in your dinner rotation.
It’s a fantastic alternative to the Easy Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta you might have tried, offering a lighter, yet equally satisfying version. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or adding it to your go-to cooking list, this dish offers a healthy, filling, and less expensive alternative to take-out. With the right mix of creamy parmesan sauce and a dash of lemon, Chicken Asparagus Pasta is guaranteed to please. Add in the versatility of penne noodles and pesto, and you’ve got an epic meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free pasta—a perfect solution for all dietary needs!
Ingredients you will need:
Here is the list of simple and easily available ingredients you’ll need to make Chicken Asparagus Pasta:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced (or chicken thighs for a juicier alternative)
- Shrimp (optional)
- Asparagus, ends trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes
- Basil pesto or homemade pesto sauce
- Olive oil or avocado oil for sautéing
- Dry whole grain fettuccine, linguine, or your preferred pasta
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
How to Make Chicken Asparagus Pasta:
Here is the simple and easy recipe, given step by step guide in full detail. Must try this super easy recipe:
Step 1: Cook Pasta:
- Bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain the pasta and reserve some of the cooking water for later use.
Step 2: Prep Chicken:
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
- Sear the chicken in batches until cooked through. Remove it from the pan, let it rest on a cutting board, and slice it into strips.
Step 3: Sauté Veggies:
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, then sauté asparagus and cherry tomatoes until they are tender-crisp.
- Add garlic and sauté for another minute, making sure it becomes fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce:
- Pour in chicken broth, half and half, and parmesan cheese to create a creamy sauce. Stir and simmer, letting the sauce thicken.
- Add the reserved pasta cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Step 5: Combine and Toss:
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Use Tongs to toss everything together, ensuring the sauce evenly coats the noodles and veggies.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Here is the picture showing all ingredients together.
Step 6: Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Asparagus Pasta hot, garnished with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious, creamy meal!
How to Make Chicken Asparagus Pasta Complete Video:
Here is the complete video that will help you make this easy pasta dish:
Recipe Tips for Perfect Chicken Asparagus Pasta:
Here are some tips to make it more delicious:
- Use chicken breast for a lean source of protein, or swap it with shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Be careful not to overcook the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy and tender.
- For asparagus, cut it into smaller pieces and sauté until it’s tender-crisp.
- Add other veggies like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini if you like.
- Choose any type of pasta you prefer, but make sure to cook it al dente for the best bite.
- For a bit of spicy flavor, add sriracha or hot sauce to give it an exciting kick.
- Mixing these elements will create a dish similar to Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta, elevating your meal!
What to Serve with Lemon Chicken Pasta:
For a complete dinner, pair your Chicken Asparagus Pasta with a side salad for a fresh and light contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta. A simple green salad with a tangy dressing will complement the lemon in the dish. If you’re looking to add something a bit more indulgent, fluffy popovers are a perfect side, offering a soft, buttery bite that balances the meal beautifully. These sides will elevate your go-to pasta dish, turning it into an impressive yet easy meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Asparagus Pasta:
To store your leftover Chicken Asparagus Pasta, start by allowing it to cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, divide it into portions and place it in an airtight container. Store the container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
A helpful tip for reheating is to add a tablespoon of milk or a bit of sauce when microwaving, as this helps keep the pasta tender and prevents it from drying out. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy your meals, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop using a sauce pan over medium heat. Alternatively, use warm water or low heat on the stovetop for about 5 minutes to revive the pasta and sauce.
Notes:
- You can use any pasta of your choice, such as zucchini noodles or whole grain pasta for a healthier twist.
- If you don’t have asparagus, substitute it with broccoli or other veggies.
- For a different protein, try adding shrimp instead of chicken.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, simply microwave or reheat in a pan.
- The recipe is easy to adapt and the flavors are even better when scattered with your favorite extra ingredients!
More Chicken Pasta Recipes You’ll love:
- Chicken Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Quick and Easy Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole
- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Sauteed Zucchini and Yellow Squash
- Easy Taco Stuffed Zucchini Boats
- Easy Peach Crisp
- Cold Spaghetti Salad
FAQs about Chicken Asparagus Pasta:
What sauce goes well with chicken and asparagus?
A creamy lemon sauce or crème fraîche sauce is a perfect match for chicken and asparagus. It’s easy to prepare ahead and adds a tangy, rich flavor that’s perfect for a dinner party or a quick meal.
What pasta pairs well with asparagus?
For asparagus pasta recipes, creamy fettuccine or penne are perfect choices. These classic pasta dishes complement the snappy asparagus beautifully. You can also try pasta with pesto or make a fresh asparagus pasta salad for a lighter option. Add shrimp for extra protein and make it a complete meal!
Is asparagus good with chicken?
Asparagus is an excellent pairing with chicken, especially when roasting, grilling, or pan-searing. Its fresh, crisp texture perfectly complements the mild flavors of chicken. The combination of bright flavors from lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a balanced dish, making it a popular choice in sheet pan and one-pan recipes. This classic pairing is always a hit!
Do Italians put asparagus in pasta?
Asparagus is an excellent pairing with chicken, especially when roasting, grilling, or pan-searing. Its fresh, crisp texture perfectly complements the mild flavors of chicken. The combination of bright flavors from lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a balanced dish, making it a popular choice in sheet pan and one-pan recipes. This classic pairing is always a hit!
What Herbs Go With Chicken?
For chicken, a variety of herbs can bring out delicious flavor. Popular choices include rosemary, thyme, oregano, and Italian seasoning. You can also try adding a little cajun, paprika, or garlic powder for a spicier kick. For a fresh twist, use cilantro, tarragon, or sage to enhance the dish. Don’t forget the basics—salt and pepper are always essential for seasoning!
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