Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta
Try this Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta recipe.
Try this Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta recipe.
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1 3/4 cup milk (i used 1%)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded with mallet to even thickness
- 1/4 tsp each salt and freshly ground black pepper plus more for sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb asparagus trimmed of ends remaining diced into 2-inch pieces and steamed
- 1 1/2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup cream or half and half
- 3 oz neufchatel cheese (aka light cream cheese) diced into pieces
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 4 - 5 slices bacon cooked and crumbled into small pieces (optio
- Carbohydrate 33.9254756943372 g
- Cholesterol 106.449180745937 mg
- Fat 9.39759198290544 g
- Fiber 0.192083332322943 g
- Protein 24.4922813099954 g
- Saturated Fat 4.62735888418215 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (241g)
- Sodium 121.504654618262 mg
- Sugar 33.7333923620143 g
- Trans Fat 1.09953612675222 g
- Calories 323 calories
Step-by-step
- In a small bowl, stir together basil, oregano, thyme and 1/4 salt and pepper. Sprinkle half of the herb mixture evenly over tops of chicken.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken to skillet, herbed side down, then add remaining herb mixture to tops of chicken.
- Cook chicken until fully cooked through, about 8 - 12 minutes, occasionally rotating chicken (time will vary based on thickness of chicken breasts. If chicken is browning too quickly reduce heat to medium low as needed).
- Transfer cooked chicken to a plate, let rest 5 minutes then dice into pieces.
- Meanwhile cook pasta according to directions listed on package, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
- In a clean skillet (large and deep), melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute, stirring constantly, add garlic and cook 30 seconds longer, stirring constantly.
- While whisking, slowly pour in milk then cream (whisk vigorously to break up clumps).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste (a fair amount of each) and bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Once it reaches a boil and thickens, reduce heat to medium-low, add Neufchatel and parmesan cheese and cook, stirring frequently, until cheeses have melted.
- Toss in cooked pasta, then add cooked chicken, steamed asparagus and bacon and toss to evenly coat.
- Add in reserved pasta water as desired (it will thicken as it rests and the pasta will absorb the liquids, so add up to 1/2 cup as needed).
- Serve immediately.
Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, work deadlines, and extracurricular activities, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for quick, easy, and flavorful recipes that the whole family will enjoy. This Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta recipe is a perfect example. It's a simple dish that’s surprisingly sophisticated, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend meal. The creamy sauce is rich and satisfying, while the chicken and asparagus provide a healthy dose of protein and vitamins.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli, spinach, or peas would all be delicious additions. You can also adjust the seasonings to your liking. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes would add a nice kick, while a dash of lemon juice would brighten up the flavors. I often use whatever fresh herbs I have on hand – a little parsley or chives can make all the difference. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to personalize it to your taste and the ingredients you have readily available.
The process itself is incredibly straightforward. The chicken cooks quickly, the pasta is easy to prepare, and the creamy sauce comes together in minutes. There's minimal chopping involved, which is a huge bonus on busy nights. The recipe provides clear instructions, making it accessible to even novice cooks. While the recipe calls for specific ingredients, don't be afraid to substitute or adjust based on what you have available in your pantry or fridge. I often change things based on what’s in season, or what I have too much of at the time.
One of the most satisfying aspects of cooking is the ability to create something nourishing and delicious for your family. This creamy chicken pasta dish offers exactly that – a comforting meal that’s both flavorful and healthy. The blend of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crisp-tender asparagus creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes. The creamy sauce is rich and satisfying without being heavy, and it clings perfectly to the pasta. The chicken is cooked to perfection, remaining juicy and tender, and the asparagus adds a fresh, vibrant element to the dish.
This recipe has quickly become a staple in our household. It's a go-to meal when I’m short on time but still want to serve something delicious and wholesome. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, always receiving rave reviews from family and friends alike. The leftovers are just as good the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option. So, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner, I highly recommend giving this Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Beyond the practicality, this dish holds a special place in my heart. It represents the joy of coming together around a shared meal. The aroma of garlic, herbs, and cream fills the kitchen as it simmers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. It’s more than just a meal; it's a symbol of nourishment, comfort, and connection. It's a way to show love and care to my family, nourishing not just their bodies but their spirits as well. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients, transformed into something truly special with a little time and attention.
Moreover, this recipe reminds me of the importance of balance in life. Just like the perfect blend of flavors and textures in this dish, life requires a careful balance between work, family, and personal time. It's a constant juggling act, but finding those moments to create something nourishing, whether it's a delicious meal or a special moment with loved ones, is crucial for maintaining harmony and well-being. This recipe serves as a comforting reminder that even amidst the chaos of daily life, there's always time to create something beautiful and satisfying.
Finally, this recipe is a constant reminder that cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be a joyful and fulfilling experience, even when time is limited. The simple act of gathering ingredients, following a recipe, and creating something delicious from scratch is a grounding and therapeutic process. It allows for mindfulness and creativity, even within the constraints of a busy schedule. So, embrace the simplicity, savor the flavors, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious and nourishing Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta.
