Asparagus Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
If you’re looking for a fresh and satisfying dinner idea, Asparagus Chicken Pasta is a top choice. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant asparagus, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a delightful basil pesto sauce. It’s not only delicious but also vibrant and colorful, making it perfect for a family meal or entertaining guests. Plus, it can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights!
Why Make This Recipe
Asparagus Chicken Pasta is a wonderful recipe for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, requiring only basic cooking skills. Second, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients, providing a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and whole grains. Additionally, the combination of flavors is truly delightful, thanks to the fresh asparagus, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic garlic. Lastly, the pesto adds a unique twist, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Feel great about serving this wholesome meal to friends and family!
How to Make Asparagus Chicken Pasta
Making Asparagus Chicken Pasta is simple and straightforward. Begin by boiling your pasta until it’s al dente. While that cooks, season and cook your chicken in a skillet until perfectly golden. Transfer the chicken to cool, and sauté asparagus and tomatoes in the same skillet. Mix in garlic and your reserved pasta water for extra flavor. Finally, combine it all with the cooked pasta and fresh basil pesto. It’s a fast, delicious, and healthy dinner option that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (sliced in half lengthwise)
- 1 Tsp Kosher Salt (divided)
- 1⁄2 Tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper (divided)
- 1 lb Asparagus (ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 Cups Cherry or Grape Tomatoes
- 1⁄4 Cup Basil Pesto
- 3 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 3 Tbsp Olive Oil (divided)
- 12 oz Dry Whole Grain Fettuccine (or linguine)
Directions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water.
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken on both sides with half of the salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
- While the chicken is cooling, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet and add the asparagus and cherry tomatoes. Add the garlic, remaining salt, and pepper, and sauté, stirring often, for 2-3 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Add 1 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet, along with the pesto and the sliced chicken. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
- As soon as it starts bubbling, add the cooked pasta and toss with tongs to coat the noodles in the sauce. Remove from the heat and serve immediately.
How to Serve Asparagus Chicken Pasta
Serve Asparagus Chicken Pasta hot from the stove, garnished with additional basil or Parmesan cheese if desired. A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs beautifully with this dish, providing a complete meal. This recipe can also be plated individually for a nice presentation, especially when serving guests. Don’t forget to drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added flavor!
How to Store Asparagus Chicken Pasta
Leftover Asparagus Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best quality, allow the pasta to cool before sealing it in the container. If you’d like to reheat it later, make sure to add a splash of water or extra olive oil to keep it from drying out.
Tips to Make Asparagus Chicken Pasta
- Use whole grain pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for an even quicker meal.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of pesto based on your personal taste—more for a stronger flavor, less for a milder one.
- Cooking the chicken in batches can ensure even cooking and browning.
Can You Freeze Asparagus Chicken Pasta
Yes, you can freeze Asparagus Chicken Pasta! To freeze, let it cool completely, then pack it in an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, reheat the pasta after thawing in the refrigerator overnight.
How to Reheat Asparagus Chicken Pasta
Reheat Asparagus Chicken Pasta in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. If using a skillet, add a little water or olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir often until heated through. If using a microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also substitute tofu for chicken to keep it protein-packed without using meat. Another delicious variation involves using a different pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto, for a twist on flavors.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep, as you can make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for quick meals later in the week.
3. How can I make it spicier?
To give the dish some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables, or serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce. This will add a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.
With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, Asparagus Chicken Pasta is sure to become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience. Enjoy this easy and wholesome meal tonight!
vibrant Asparagus Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- – 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (sliced in half lengthwise)
- – 1 tsp Kosher Salt divided
- – 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper divided
- – 1 lb Asparagus ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
- – 2 cups Cherry or Grape Tomatoes
- – 1/4 cup Basil Pesto
- – 3 Garlic Cloves minced
- – 3 tbsp Olive Oil divided
- – 12 oz Dry Whole Grain Fettuccine or linguine
Instructions
- Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions, then drain, saving 1 cup of the cooking water for later.
- While that pasta is bubbling away, season the chicken breasts on both sides with half of the salt and pepper.
- In a large, deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is nice and hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for about 3 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Once done, move the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
- With the chicken resting, add the last tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the asparagus and cherry tomatoes, followed by the minced garlic, remaining salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
- Next, pour in 1 cup of the reserved pasta water along with the pesto and the sliced chicken. Bring everything to a simmer.
- Once it’s bubbling away, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Use tongs to toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and serve immediately for a delightful dinner!
- Enjoy this dish that’s as colorful as it is tasty!