Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe

Penne with Chicken and Asparagus is a wonderful, healthy, and filling dish that combines the savory goodness of grilled or sautéed chicken with tender asparagus and al dente penne pasta, all smothered in a light but flavorful sauce. It’s a balanced meal that includes protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special meal for family and friends.

The dish brings together fresh ingredients like crisp asparagus, succulent chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, with the addition of a creamy sauce or light vinaigrette to enhance the overall flavor. It’s easy to customize with various sauces, spices, or additional vegetables, so you can make it your own every time you cook it.

Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe will give you a dish that is both delicious and beautiful. You can choose between a creamy or light olive oil-based sauce, depending on your preference, and you’ll enjoy every bite of the dish.

Let’s dive in and break down the recipe in full detail to ensure a perfect result every time.

Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken

1.1 Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, consider butterflying them to create even pieces that will cook more quickly and evenly. Alternatively, you can slice the breasts into thinner cutlets for faster cooking.

1.2 Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and onion powder. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this point to enhance the flavor. Let the chicken sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the seasoning to absorb.

1.3 In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

1.4 Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized strips or cubes, as per your preference, and set aside while you prepare the pasta and asparagus.

2. Cooking the Pasta

2.1 While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water once it’s boiling.

2.2 Add the penne pasta to the pot and cook according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture (usually around 10-12 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking.

2.3 Once cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta. Set the drained pasta aside while you prepare the asparagus and sauce.

3. Preparing the Asparagus

3.1 While the pasta is cooking, prepare the asparagus. Trim the tough, woody ends of the asparagus by snapping or cutting about 1-2 inches from the bottom of each stalk. You can also use a vegetable peeler to shave off the lower portion of the stalk if it’s tough.

3.2 Cut the asparagus into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5 inches long, for easier mixing into the pasta.

3.3 You can choose to either roast or sauté the asparagus, depending on your preference:

Roasting:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss the asparagus pieces in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic (if using).
• Spread the asparagus evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 10-12 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized.

Sautéing:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they’re tender but still slightly crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).

4. Preparing the Sauce

4.1 You have the option to make a creamy sauce or a light olive oil-based sauce, depending on your preference.

Creamy Sauce:

• In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add 1/4 cup of chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and stir to combine. Let the broth simmer for a minute to reduce slightly.
• Pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out by adding some of the reserved pasta water.

Olive Oil-based Sauce:

• In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
• Season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil (or fresh basil). Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired.
• Whisk the ingredients together until well combined and the cheese slightly melts into the oil. This sauce is light but flavorful and coats the pasta and chicken beautifully.

5. Combining the Pasta, Chicken, Asparagus, and Sauce

5.1 Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce of your choice (creamy or olive oil-based). Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce cling to the pasta.

5.2 Add the sliced chicken and sautéed or roasted asparagus to the pasta. Gently toss the chicken, asparagus, and pasta together until everything is evenly distributed.

6. Serving and Garnishing

6.1 Serve the Penne with Chicken and Asparagus on individual plates or a large serving platter. For extra flavor and a beautiful presentation, garnish with more freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil.

6.2 You can also add a light drizzle of extra olive oil or a few squeezes of fresh lemon juice for added freshness.

6.3 Serve immediately, accompanied by a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Tips for Success

1. Chicken Tips:

   • For more flavorful chicken, marinate it for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs will add depth of flavor.
   • Make sure the chicken is not overcrowded in the pan while cooking, as this will ensure it gets a nice sear and cooks evenly.

2. Pasta Tips:

   • When cooking the pasta, be sure to salt the water generously. This will season the pasta as it cooks, enhancing the flavor.
   • Don’t overcook the pasta! It should be just al dente, as it will continue to cook a little when you mix it with the sauce.

3. Asparagus Tips:

   • Asparagus can sometimes be tough at the base. Be sure to snap off the woody ends and discard them.
   • For more flavor, you can season the asparagus with garlic, lemon zest, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before roasting or sautéing.

4. Sauce Customization:

   • You can adjust the creaminess of the sauce depending on your preference. Add more cream for a richer sauce or reduce the cream for a lighter texture.
   • If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative in place of heavy cream.

Variations and Customizations

1. Vegetarian Option:

   • Omit the chicken and add more vegetables to the dish, such as sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach. These will complement the asparagus beautifully.

2. Spicy Variation:

   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or sauté some diced fresh chili peppers with the garlic for an added spicy kick.

3. Pasta Substitution:

   • Swap out the penne for other pasta types, such as fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.

4. Herb Variations:

   • Experiment with different herbs for the sauce. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can add a unique flavor to the dish.

Conclusion

Penne with Chicken and Asparagus is a versatile and flavorful dish that is easy to make, yet full of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Whether you opt for the creamy sauce or the light olive oil-based version, this meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked pasta offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

With endless customization options and the ability to suit various dietary preferences, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy creating this delicious and satisfying meal, and don’t forget to pair it with a side of fresh bread and a light salad for a complete dining experience!

Yield: 4

Penne with Chicken and Asparagus Recipe

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Penne with Chicken and Asparagus is a wonderful, healthy, and filling dish that combines the savory goodness of grilled or sautéed chicken with tender asparagus and al dente penne pasta, all smothered in a light but flavorful sauce. It’s a balanced meal that includes protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special meal for family and friends.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for added freshness)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 9-11 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Asparagus and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the asparagus pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they’re tender-crisp and bright green.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly.
2. Add the heavy cream and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and asparagus.
2. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
3. Stir in fresh lemon juice and lemon zest for a burst of freshness, if desired.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
2. Optional: Top with more grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Notes

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply skip the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Protein Options: You can also use grilled shrimp or turkey in place of chicken if preferred.
• Pasta Alternatives: Feel free to swap penne with other pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle.
• Creamy Texture: For an even creamier texture, use full-fat heavy cream instead of half-and-half, or you can add a dollop of mascarpone cheese for extra richness.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and asparagus ahead of time, and then just combine with the pasta and sauce when ready to serve.