Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine

Name: Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp garlic powder or garlic salt; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 garlic cloves, crushed/minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated; 2 cups asparagus, washed and chopped into 2-inch pieces; 1 lb pasta of your choice, cooked

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 19, 2025

Updated:

March 19, 2025

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This Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine recipe is a fantastic go-to when you’re in the mood for something comforting yet quick to whip up. The combination of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and a creamy sauce creates a delicious harmony of flavors that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings when you want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish feels gourmet, yet it uses simple ingredients that most people already have on hand. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

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Why This Recipe Works

This Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine combines tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and creamy sauce—all within 30 minutes. The use of simple ingredients creates a rich dish that feels gourmet, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it all comes together without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine

You’ll fall for the harmony of flavors in this Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine. The zesty lemon brightens the dish, while the creamy sauce envelops the pasta and vegetables, delivering comfort food that delights every palate. Every forkful offers a balance of textures, and the bright flavor from the lemon really complements the savory chicken and richness of the cream.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder or garlic salt
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, crushed/minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
2 cups asparagus, washed and chopped into 2-inch pieces
1 lb pasta of your choice, cooked

Preparing the Chicken

Flatten the Chicken Breasts

To ensure even cooking, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to flatten them to about ½ inch thick. This will help the chicken cook faster and ensure that it’s juicy.

Season and Cook the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken with olive oil. Then, season both sides with oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a large pan over high heat. Add the chicken, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and cooked through. After the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set aside.

Making the Sauce

Sauté Garlic

In the same pan you used for the chicken, add a bit more olive oil and minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. This will infuse the oil with fantastic garlic flavor and enhance your sauce.

Combine Ingredients

Next, pour in the heavy cream and add lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. As it heats, toss in asparagus pieces, allowing them to cook for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a cohesive sauce that binds the dish together.

Add Cheese and Chicken

After the asparagus has softened slightly, stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Season it to taste; remember, a little salt can brighten flavors. Slice the cooked chicken into strips, then return it to the sauce.

Bringing It All Together

Toss with Pasta

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked pasta to your creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of the pasta cooking water to loosen it up for a creamier consistency.

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal complete, serve this Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine with a side salad or some fresh garlic bread. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle additional Parmesan on top. This enhances the presentation and adds more cheesiness, which is never a bad thing!

Tips for Success

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
Fresh asparagus yields the best texture and flavor, so try not to substitute with canned or frozen.
Adjust the sauce consistency to your liking by adding more or less cream.

Variations

Swap out asparagus for your favorite green veggies like broccoli or snap peas for something different.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a delightful burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess.
Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make this dish a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.

Storage Tips

After enjoying your Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce back to its creamy goodness.

Pairing Ideas

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio. To balance the richness of the sauce, a fresh green salad serves as a perfect complement, adding crunch and lightness to your meal.

FAQs

What is the best type of pasta for Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine?
Fettuccine is ideal due to its ability to hold creamy sauces. However, any pasta you enjoy will work.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare individual components ahead of time but combine them just before serving for the best texture.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you may use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option.

How can I make this dish spicier?
To give it an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to a month. However, the texture of the asparagus may change when reheating.

This Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine recipe is a delightful, quick dish that promises to please family and friends alike. With vibrant flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy every savory bite!

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Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Asparagus Fettuccine

Ingredients