Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a rich, creamy sauce. The combination of savory chicken, crisp asparagus, and creamy pasta makes this a well-balanced meal that’s perfect for dinner. It’s quick to make, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender-crisp. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the cooked pasta. Add Parmesan cheese and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor.
• Swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different protein.
• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier or allergy-friendly version.
• For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, citrusy touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus?
Fresh asparagus is recommended for the best texture, but you can use frozen if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and assemble the dish right before serving.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and use dairy-free cheese.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. The tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and rich, cheesy sauce make it a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, making it a must-try recipe for pasta lovers!

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