Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus: A Simple yet Flavorful Delight!
Immerse yourself in the refreshing and fulfilling taste of this Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or casual gatherings, layered with the bright zest of lemon and rich flavors of chicken and tender asparagus. Don’t hesitate, give it a try tonight!
* Prep Time: 15 minutes
* Cook Time: 20 minutes
* Total Time: 35 minutes
* Servings: 4
## Why Should You Make This Recipe?
This beautifully balanced dish is the ideal blend of tangy lemon, succulent chicken, and tender asparagus. Not only is it a symphony of flavors but also a vibrant addition to your family dinner or a friendly gathering. It’s relatively easy to make, and the ingredients are straightforward, making it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.
## How to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus
First, you’ll need to gather your ingredients.
## Ingredients:
* 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
* 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 lemon, juiced and zested
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier sauce)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
## Directions:
Once the ingredients are at the ready, you can follow these easy steps:
1. Boil the pasta as per the instructions given on the package, then drain and keep it aside.
2. Season your sliced chicken strips with salt and pepper.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it turns golden and is thoroughly cooked. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Afterwards, transfer the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Add the leftover olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the asparagus and garlic until they become tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. You can add heavy cream at this point if you’re using it and bring the mix to a slight simmer.
6. Toss your cooked pasta into the skillet and mix well to ensure the sauce coats everything evenly.
7. Lastly, sprinkle the mixture with Parmesan cheese, give it a good toss, and serve it hot with a garnish of fresh parsley.
## How to Serve Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus
This pasta can be served hot, fresh from the skillet for the best taste. A sprinkle of extra cheese on top would add a nice depth. You can pair with a side of garlic bread or a light salad making it a delightful meal.
## How to Store Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus
You can refrigerate any leftover pasta in an airtight container for about 3 days. When you’re ready to eat again, just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until it’s hot.
## Easy Tips to Make Lemon Chicken Pasta with Asparagus
* Always use fresh lemon juice and zest instead of bottled lemon juice for the optimum burst of tanginess.
* Before adding the pasta to the skillet, reserve some pasta water. If your sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it with this water.
* For vegetarians, you can replace chicken with white beans or chickpeas.
## Variations
If you want to experiment with flavors, you can add red chili flakes to give a spicy kick or try adding capers for a salty punch.
## FAQs
1. Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like. The recipe would work with penne, bowtie pasta, or even spiral pasta.
2. Can I use other vegetables aside from asparagus?
Yes, you can replace asparagus with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or even bell peppers.
3. Can I use cream cheese instead of heavy cream?
Sure you can! Cream cheese would provide a thicker and creamier texture for your sauce.
Take a plunge into this vibrant and flavorful dish today and wow your friends and family with your culinary skills. Enjoy cooking and bon appetit!