Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this delectable chicken and asparagus pasta recipe. It’s an easy-to-follow guide that will yield a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe will impress both you and your loved ones. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s embark on a scrumptious journey.
The combination of succulent chicken and crisp asparagus creates a perfect harmony of flavors. The addition of Parmesan cheese and a creamy sauce enhances the richness of this dish, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this chicken and asparagus pasta recipe is versatile and sure to please every palate.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 pound pasta (such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Grater
How to Make Chicken and Asparagus Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Asparagus
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Add the asparagus and cook until crisp-tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the asparagus from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Parmesan and Cream
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Return Chicken and Asparagus
Add the cooked chicken and asparagus back to the pan. Stir to combine.
Step 6: Serve
Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and add it to the chicken and asparagus mixture. Stir to combine. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips or Possible Variations
For a more flavorful dish, use grilled or roasted chicken instead of pan-seared.
Add other vegetables to the pasta, such as chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas.
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute milk or sour cream.
If you want a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
This recipe is easily customizable to fit your preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique variation of this delicious chicken and asparagus pasta.