Can I Use Fresh Asparagus Instead of Frozen?

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.

How Do I Make This Dish Creamier Without Overwhelming It?

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.

Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

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.

Is It Possible to Make This with Gluten-Free Pasta?

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.

How Can I Add More Flavor Without Making It Too Spicy?

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.

What If I Don’t Have Parmesan?

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.

Chicken Asparagus Pasta – Easy & Delicious Family Dinner

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