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I’m all about simplicity, so I love that this chicken asparagus pasta bake doesn’t require a cupboard full of fancy items. If you have chicken, frozen asparagus, some penne, and a bit of Parmesan, you’re well on your way. It’s a one-dish wonder that feels like a treat whenever I serve it.
- Short Prep Time: You cook the pasta, fry the chicken, prep the asparagus, then slide everything into the oven for a quick finish.
- Mild yet Flavorful: The garlic and herb seasoning adds enough taste without scaring picky eaters.
- Endlessly Adaptable: Feeling adventurous? Turn this into a chicken asparagus pasta tomato feast by adding tomatoes. Craving creaminess? Add a little crème fraîche. The possibilities are endless.
- Family-Approved: The kids get some greens in a fun way. Grown-ups appreciate how it tastes like something from a nice restaurant, even though it’s made at home.
I still remember the day I tossed everything into my baking dish for the first time. My husband was skeptical. But when it came out golden, steamy, and bursting with the aroma of herbs, he was all smiles. Now he asks for it whenever we need a reliable easy dinner that brings warmth to a weekday evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below are the basics for a family of about four. Feel free to adjust if you have big eaters or want leftovers.
- 2–3 chicken breasts (1–1.5 lbs total), cleaned and cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons garlic and herb seasoning
- 12 oz frozen asparagus
- 16 oz penne pasta (about 450 g)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
That’s it! I bet most of these are already staples in your kitchen. If you prefer fresh asparagus, by all means, use it—just remember to blanch or roast it a little before mixing it in.
How to Make Chicken Asparagus Pasta
Even on the busiest days, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat. Here’s my routine:
Cook the Penne
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions.
- Drain the water and set the pasta aside.
- (Quick Tip: Reserve a small cup of the pasta water if you like a saucier dish. You can add it later for extra moisture.)
Fry the Chicken
- Warm a bit of oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken cubes. Season with your garlic and herb mix.
- Fry for about 7 minutes on each side or until the inside is no longer pink.
- (It’s important to ensure the chicken is fully cooked for safety. If you see no pink in the thickest piece, you’re good.)
Prepare the Asparagus
- Cook the frozen asparagus according to the package. Often, you can microwave them in the bag.
- Once they’re heated, cut each stalk into three pieces. If using fresh asparagus, blanch them in lightly salted water for 2–3 minutes so they soften.
- (My kids think asparagus looks like tiny green wands. It’s such a fun way to get them interested in veggies!)
Combine in a Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to broil (or around 500°F).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add the cooked pasta, chicken cubes, and asparagus.
- Drizzle with ¼ cup olive oil.
- Gently stir everything together. Spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle Parmesan and Broil
- Scatter ½ cup grated Parmesan on top.
- Slide the dish under the broiler. Broil for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts to a golden hue.
- Keep an eye on it, because it can go from perfect to crispy in no time!
Serve and Enjoy
- Take the dish out of the oven.
- Let it rest for a minute or two.
- Serve it family-style right out of the baking dish.
That’s the basic blueprint. But trust me, once you’ve tried it this way, you’ll find yourself thinking of extra twists to make it your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are six questions readers often ask about this chicken asparagus pasta bake. I hope they shed light on any concerns you might have.
Yes, of course! Just blanch or roast the fresh asparagus for a couple of minutes so it turns tender. Fresh asparagus can have a slightly crisper bite and a more vibrant green color. Frozen asparagus is a big time-saver, though. It also locks in nutrients, making it a practical option all year.
A creamy chicken asparagus pasta is as simple as stirring in a spoonful or two of crème fraîche, sour cream, or Greek yogurt before sprinkling on the cheese. This gives you a richer texture without using heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter taste, just add a splash of the pasta cooking water and a touch of butter or olive oil.
Yes! Place leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. When reheating, use the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop with a drizzle of oil or water. If you’re worried about dryness, add a splash of broth or a little extra cheese to revive the flavors.
Absolutely. Gluten-free pasta brands have come a long way. Just be mindful of the cooking time since gluten-free pasta can turn mushy if overcooked. Everything else stays the same, and you’ll hardly notice any difference in taste.
Try mild herbs like basil or parsley. A hint of lemon zest can bring a burst of freshness too. Or you can drizzle in a splash of white wine to create a chicken asparagus pasta white wine sauce. This approach infuses subtle depth without making it spicy at all.
Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses can work. Just know that different cheeses melt differently. For instance, mozzarella gives you that stretchy, gooey finish, while cheddar adds a sharper taste. A blend can be fun if you’re feeling adventurous.
Add More Inspiring Meal Ideas
Craving more variety for busy nights? You might find these delicious too:
- Chicken Power Bowl with Roasted Veggies – Healthy & Easy
This is a great option when I want a nutrient-packed bowl in a flash. - Strawberry Donuts with Glaze – Easy Baked Donut Recipe
Sometimes you need a sweet reward! These donuts are simple and bursting with fresh strawberry flavor. - Heart-Shaped Pop Tart Recipe: Easy Homemade Treats
If you’re in a playful mood, these homemade pop tarts are a delight. My kids love helping cut them into heart shapes.
When you want more than pasta, these links can guide you to something equally satisfying. After all, a good meal plan has variety, right?
Handy Tips and Substitutions
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Great for those seeking extra fiber or dietary flexibility.
- Protein Swaps: Chicken thighs if you like a juicier cut, turkey if you want something leaner, or even fish if you’re daring.
- Cheese Variety: Parmesan is classic, but mozzarella or cheddar each lend a unique flair.
- Herb Mix: Garlic and herb seasoning is fantastic, but plain salt and pepper also work in a pinch. Add fresh thyme or rosemary if you have it on hand.
One of my secret tips: If your kids (or spouse) are suspicious of anything green, chop the asparagus into small pieces. That way, they’re less likely to pick them out and more likely to appreciate the flavor.
Feel free to pin this recipe for the future. I’ve prepared two special pins you can save on Pinterest:
- “Bubbly Chicken Asparagus Pasta Bake – Family-Friendly Recipe”
- “Quick & Flavorful Chicken Asparagus Pasta – Weeknight Wonder”
By pinning, you’ll always have this chicken asparagus pasta idea handy on busy nights. It’s a lifesaver when you need a dish that’s ready in a jiffy yet tastes like you’ve put in loads of effort.
Chicken Asparagus Pasta – Quick & Flavorful Dinner
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Mains
- Method: Stovetop + Broil
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This chicken asparagus pasta recipe is an easy and delicious dinner idea. Juicy chicken, crisp asparagus, and penne pasta come together in a creamy parmesan sauce, making this the perfect family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 2–3 chicken breasts (1–1.5 lbs), cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons garlic and herb seasoning
- 12 oz frozen asparagus, chopped
- 16 oz penne pasta
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ½ cup grated parmesan
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with garlic and herb mix, and cook for about 7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the frozen asparagus per package instructions, then cut the stalks into three pieces.
- Preheat the oven broiler to 500°F.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine pasta, chicken, asparagus, and olive oil. Stir to mix.
- Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and broil for about 5 minutes until golden.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, then serve hot.
(For a creamy version, mix in a little crème fraîche before broiling!)
Notes
- Swap parmesan for mozzarella for a milder taste.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for freshness.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta instead.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 2–3 days in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (~1.5 cups)
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~450 mg
- Fat: ~16g
- Saturated Fat: ~4g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: ~55g
- Fiber: ~4g
- Protein: ~38g
- Cholesterol: ~75mg
Keywords: chicken asparagus pasta, creamy chicken asparagus pasta, chicken asparagus pasta bake, easy chicken pasta recipe, quick dinner
When you serve this chicken asparagus pasta bake, you’re offering warmth and comfort. It’s perfect for that moment when you want a meal that’s easy but doesn’t sacrifice taste. You can tailor it to your dietary needs, swap cheeses, or add extra veggies.
If you’ve never cooked with asparagus before, this dish is a friendly introduction. In my home, it converted my kids into asparagus fans, and they happily munch away on those “green wands” now.
Save & Share for Later
More Inspiration if You’re Hungry for More
- Chicken Power Bowl with Roasted Veggies – Healthy & Easy – A great next-day meal that keeps you fueled.
- Strawberry Donuts with Glaze – Easy Baked Donut Recipe – Perfect for a sweet dessert after a wholesome pasta dinner.
- Heart-Shaped Pop Tart Recipe: Easy Homemade Treats – If you want a fun project for kids or a special breakfast treat.
Give them a shot if you want to branch out from chicken and asparagus pasta. Each recipe is straightforward but loaded with flavor.
