Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Clara quick dinners

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and a luscious, creamy sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a comfort food classic with a fresh twist, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and freshness. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while the asparagus adds a pop of color and crisp texture. It’s a one-pan dish (after the pasta’s cooked), making cleanup easy. Plus, it’s customizable—swap in your preferred pasta, toss in extra veggies, or add herbs for a flavor boost.

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Asparagus
• Pasta (such as fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Onion or shallots
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Lemon zest or juice (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and slice or cube.
4. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and soft.
5. Add chopped asparagus and cook for 35 minutes until tender-crisp.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any brown bits.
7. Stir in the cream and bring to a low simmer. Cook until slightly thickened.
8. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and combined.
9. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest or juice if using.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or arugula at the end for extra nutrition.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
• Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano or a touch of cream cheese for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid boiling to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

Can I use a different vegetable instead of asparagus?

Yes, broccoli, peas, spinach, or zucchini all work well in this dish.

What pasta shape is best for this recipe?

Fettuccine, penne, or rotini hold the sauce well, but any pasta you love will work.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Add it to the sauce during the final steps just to warm it through.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat on low when adding cream and avoid boiling after it’s added.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, though it’s best fresh. You can prep the components separately and assemble just before serving.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal for freezing, as cream sauces can separate upon reheating.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, evaporated milk, or unsweetened non-dairy creamers can work in a pinch.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Skip the chicken and add extra veggies or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of dry white wine before adding cream adds great depth of flavor.

Is lemon necessary?

No, but a little lemon zest or juice brightens the dish and balances the richness.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta is the kind of dish that brings comfort and freshness together in perfect harmony. With tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and a velvety sauce coating every bite, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, this pasta delivers both elegance and ease.

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