Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in Chicken and Asparagus Pasta. I remember the first time I tried it; I was hosting a small dinner for friends who had been craving something comforting yet fresh. As I sautéed the tender pieces of chicken alongside vibrant asparagus, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in. The colors of the dish were a joy to behold—rich greens and golden pasta dancing together in harmony. It quickly became one of our go-to recipes for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Each bite bursts with flavor, wrapped in creamy goodness, making it the perfect balance of indulgence and health. If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy to whip up yet impressive enough to wow your guests, then Chicken and Asparagus Pasta is the answer. It’s comforting, fresh, and a total crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients Required for Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

The ingredients in Chicken and Asparagus Pasta are simple yet powerful. Together, they create a delicious orchestration of flavors that elevate the dish. The key players, including bowtie pasta, chicken, and asparagus, work in harmony to deliver both texture and taste. This balance is essential for creating a meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

• Bowtie Pasta: 116 oz. – The star of the dish, bowtie pasta adds a fun shape and holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Chicken: 2 cups, cubed – Tender and juicy, chicken provides the protein needed to make this a satisfying meal.
• Asparagus: 1 bunch, trimmed and cut into 4 – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing.
• Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup – Infuses the dish with flavor and moisture, ensuring everything melds together perfectly.
• Reserved Pasta Water: 1/2 cup – This starchy water helps to adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp – Used for sautéing, it adds richness and depth to the dish.
• Minced Garlic: 2 tbsp – A must for flavor, garlic brightens the dish and gives it allure.
• Onion Powder: 1/4 tsp – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 tsp – Enhances the garlic flavor, creating a more robust taste.
• Dried Basil: 1 tsp – Provides a fragrant herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp – Another layer of flavor, adding a Mediterranean touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes: pinch – For a bit of heat, balancing out the creaminess.
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz – Makes the sauce creamy and rich, elevating the entire dish.
• Half and Half: 1/3 cup – Adds creaminess without being too heavy, perfect for the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, shredded – A finishing touch, providing a salty and savory flavor.
• Garlic Salt and Pepper: to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.

Instructions for Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

Cooking Chicken and Asparagus Pasta is a delightful journey in the kitchen! The steps are straightforward, yet they culminate in a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. Let’s dive into the details to ensure you get the best out of this recipe.

1. Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the cubed chicken and sauté for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown. You’ll know it’s cooked correctly when the chicken is no longer pink inside and has a nice color on the outside.
2. While your chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the trimmed and cut asparagus to the water. This will ensure that the asparagus is tender yet crisp.
3. Drain the pasta and asparagus, but be sure to reserve one cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help in creating the sauce. Set everything aside while you prepare to combine the flavors.
4. Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, add the minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma. You’ll notice the kitchen will start smelling incredible!
5. Next, pour in the chicken broth, half and half, and cream cheese into the skillet. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Don’t forget to add half of your parmesan cheese to enhance the richness.
6. Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta and asparagus back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well combined. If the pasta seems too dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water, mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the pasta.
7. Season the dish with salt, pepper, and any additional parmesan cheese to taste. Make sure to give it a final stir to incorporate the seasonings.
8. Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. You can serve Chicken and Asparagus Pasta immediately for the best experience. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese if desired!
9. Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness with a side of your favorite salad or some crusty bread!

Recipe Notes about Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

Creating the perfect Chicken and Asparagus Pasta comes with a few handy tips. Here’s what I’ve learned to make this dish even better:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to do so without the cream sauce. Freeze the chicken and pasta separately, then combine with fresh sauce when ready to eat.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Seasonal Variations: Feel free to swap out asparagus for other seasonal vegetables like peas or spinach depending on what’s available.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese! You could use mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta for a different flavor.
• Cooking Method: For added flavor, consider grilling the chicken before adding it to the dish.

What to Serve With Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

When planning your meal around Chicken and Asparagus Pasta, consider these serving suggestions to create a well-rounded dining experience:

• Garlic Bread: A perfect side to soak up the delicious sauce. The garlic flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing adds a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a healthy balance and complement the flavors beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: Although we won’t mention specific types here, a light, white wine can enhance the dining experience if desired.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or even date nights at home!
• Seasonal Considerations: In spring, pair with lighter sides like a fresh garden salad or a fruit medley for a refreshing touch.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken and Asparagus Pasta brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. It’s easy to prepare yet offers a restaurant-quality experience right at home. I encourage you to try this recipe tonight, and I promise, you’ll be reaching for seconds!

Chicken and Asparagus Pasta

Satisfy your cravings with Chicken and Asparagus Pasta. This creamy, comforting dish pairs tender chicken with crisp asparagus and bowtie pasta, making it an easy weeknight dinner that's sure to impress. You won't want to miss out on making this tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Skillet

Ingredients

  

• 116 oz. Bowtie Pasta
• 2 cups Chicken cubed
• 1 bunch Asparagus trimmed and cut into 4
• 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
• 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Minced Garlic
• 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Dried Basil
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes
• 4 oz Cream Cheese
• 1/3 cup Half and Half
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese shredded
• to taste Garlic Salt
• to taste Pepper

Instructions

 

• Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it's hot, add the cubed chicken and sauté for approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown. You'll know it's cooked correctly when the chicken is no longer pink inside and has a nice color on the outside.
• While your chicken is cooking, bring a pot of water to boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the trimmed and cut asparagus to the water. This will ensure that the asparagus is tender yet crisp.
• Drain the pasta and asparagus, but be sure to reserve one cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will help in creating the sauce. Set everything aside while you prepare to combine the flavors.
• Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, add the minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma. You'll notice the kitchen will start smelling incredible!
• Next, pour in the chicken broth, half and half, and cream cheese into the skillet. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. Don’t forget to add half of your parmesan cheese to enhance the richness.
• Now, it’s time to add the cooked pasta and asparagus back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until well combined. If the pasta seems too dry, gradually add the reserved pasta water, mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the pasta.
• Season the dish with salt, pepper, and any additional parmesan cheese to taste. Make sure to give it a final stir to incorporate the seasonings.
• Once everything is combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. You can serve Chicken and Asparagus Pasta immediately for the best experience. Garnish with extra parmesan cheese if desired!
• Enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness with a side of your favorite salad or some crusty bread!

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to do so without the cream sauce. Freeze the chicken and pasta separately, then combine with fresh sauce when ready to eat.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Seasonal Variations: Feel free to swap out asparagus for other seasonal vegetables like peas or spinach depending on what’s available.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese! You could use mozzarella or even a sprinkle of feta for a different flavor.
• Cooking Method: For added flavor, consider grilling the chicken before adding it to the dish.

Keyword Asparagus Pasta Recipe, Chicken Pasta Recipe, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Easy Pasta Dinner

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Meet Elena Vance

I am passionate about the idea that we eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make food look just as good as it tastes. I work closely with the team to style and photograph our dishes, giving you a clear, beautiful guide on what to aim for. I had so much fun preparing this recipe, and I hope you find just as much joy in making it (and eating it!) as we did.