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
- Carbohydrate 33.7050756943372 g
- Cholesterol 106.449180745937 mg
- Fat 9.39425864957211 g
- Fiber 0.178083332958726 g
- Protein 24.4498813099954 g
- Saturated Fat 4.62676555084881 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (240g)
- Sodium 121.391321284929 mg
- Sugar 33.5269923613785 g
- Trans Fat 1.09852946008555 g
- Calories 322 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. But let me tell you, this Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta is a total game-changer. It's quick, it's easy, and most importantly, it tastes absolutely phenomenal. Forget those takeout menus and the never-ending cycle of frozen dinners – this recipe is your new go-to for a weeknight meal that the whole family will adore.
The best part? The creamy sauce is unbelievably rich and flavorful, yet it comes together in a flash. Forget spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. This recipe is all about efficiency and deliciousness. The tender chicken breasts, perfectly cooked pasta, and crisp-tender asparagus create a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. And let's not forget the bacon – those crispy bits add the perfect salty crunch to balance out the creamy sauce.
Why this recipe is a lifesaver:
- Speed and Simplicity: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to make, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Delicious and Satisfying: The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh asparagus create a meal that is both comforting and flavorful.
- Healthy and Nutritious: It's a great way to sneak in some vegetables while enjoying a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
- Versatile: Feel free to adapt it to your liking! Add different vegetables, cheeses, or herbs to make it your own.
I often find myself craving a comforting pasta dish after a long day at the office. This recipe satisfies that craving without sacrificing my commitment to eating healthy. The creamy sauce is the star of the show, and it’s so easy to make – just a few simple ingredients whisked together. I usually double the recipe and have leftovers for lunch the next day. It reheats beautifully!
The recipe is so versatile; I’ve experimented with adding different vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms. Sometimes I even swap out the bacon for some pancetta for a smokier flavor. The possibilities are endless! One tip I have is to make sure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents any dry, overcooked parts. Another helpful tip is to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps to create a smoother, creamier sauce.
This Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a little bit of creativity in the kitchen. It’s a reminder that nourishing yourself doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be quick, delicious, and completely satisfying – just like this amazing pasta dish. So, the next time you're looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and satisfying, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Beyond the Recipe:
This recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the feeling of coming home to a warm, delicious meal that makes you feel nurtured and cared for. It’s about slowing down for a few minutes and enjoying the simple pleasures of a home-cooked dinner with your loved ones. In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments like these is crucial, and this dish helps create a space for that connection. It's a perfect ending to a busy day and a great start to a relaxing evening.
Remember to adjust the seasoning to your personal preference. Some people like their sauce a bit saltier, while others prefer a more subtle flavor profile. Don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. And most importantly, enjoy the process! Cooking should be fun, and this recipe is designed to be just that – a fun, easy, and delicious way to nourish yourself and your family.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! This Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Pasta is waiting to be enjoyed. I hope you love it as much as I do.
