Pasta with Chicken and Asparagus
Elevate your dinner routine with this vibrant Pasta with Chicken and Asparagus recipe—an irresistible blend of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and al dente penne pasta tossed in a zesty lemon-garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, this dish comes together in just 40 minutes and serves four. The bright notes of fresh lemon zest and juice pair beautifully with the richness of Parmesan cheese, while a touch of parsley (optional) adds a refreshing finish. With simple ingredients like juicy chicken breasts, freshly trimmed asparagus, and pantry staples like olive oil and garlic, this pasta recipe strikes the ideal balance between comforting and wholesome. Don't forget to reserve some pasta water for the luscious, silky sauce that ties it all together! Whether you're looking for a quick and flavorful dinner idea or something to wow your family, this easy chicken and asparagus pasta recipe delivers big on taste and convenience.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 pieces garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional)
- 4 cups water
Instructions
Prepare the asparagus by trimming the tough ends and cutting into 2-inch pieces. Mince the garlic and set both aside.
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook thoroughly until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the asparagus pieces to the skillet and sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the lemony garlic sauce.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your Pasta with Chicken and Asparagus!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2592 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 85.2 g | 109% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.2 g | 131% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 376 mg | 125% | |
| Sodium | 2838 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 271.1 g | 99% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.7 g | 78% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.3 g | ||
| Protein | 192.1 g | 384% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1102 mg | 85% | |
| Iron | 24.7 mg | 137% | |
| Potassium | 2472 mg | 53% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
