This Chicken Asparagus Pasta is a creamy delight that combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a quick dish that’s both comforting and colorful!
I love how the bright green asparagus adds a crunch to each bite. Plus, you can whip it up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights when you need something tasty and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: I love using penne because its shape holds the sauce beautifully. If you don’t have penne, try fusilli or farfalle for a fun twist! Gluten-free options also work well if you need them.
Chicken Breast: Diced chicken breast is quick to cook and very lean. You can swap it with chicken thighs for more flavor or even use tofu for a vegetarian version.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus makes the dish vibrant and crunchy. If they’re out of season, snap peas or green beans are great substitutes. You can also use frozen asparagus; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes the sauce rich, you can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, try almond milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it.
Parmesan Cheese: I love freshly grated Parmesan for its flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano works well too! Nutritional yeast can be a fantastic vegan substitute.
How Can I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your chicken just right can be tricky! Here’s how to ensure it’s perfectly tender and juicy:
- First, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. This helps it brown better.
- Heat the olive oil in the skillet before adding the chicken. A hot pan prevents sticking.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes without stirring too much. Let it brown before flipping.
- Check with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) to be safe and fully cooked.
By following these tips, you’re set for delicious chicken every time!
How to Make Chicken Asparagus Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
Vegetables and Sauce:
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Asparagus Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the ingredients, and about 20 minutes to cook the chicken and asparagus as well as combine everything into a delicious dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (that means cooked, but still firm when bitten!). After it’s done cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, and season it with a bit of salt and pepper for flavor. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside—make sure to keep all those yummy juices in the skillet!
3. Prepare the Asparagus:
With the skillet still on medium heat, add the minced garlic and asparagus pieces. Sauté everything for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring gently, until the asparagus is tender but still has a nice crunch. This quick cooking will keep it bright and flavorful.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken back to the skillet with the asparagus. Now, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens! Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed!
5. Mix in the Pasta:
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with that creamy sauce and combined with the chicken and asparagus. It should look delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the Chicken Asparagus Pasta warm! Garnish with fresh basil leaves on top and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy your meal with a smile!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch to achieve a creamy consistency. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version which will add a slightly different flavor but still keep it delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the pasta seems dry.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Pasta?
Definitely! You can replace asparagus with broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure that your veggies stay tender-crisp.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and asparagus ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and warm the chicken and asparagus mixture with the cream and cheese. This way, everything stays fresh and tasty!
