Name: Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz. pasta (fettuccine or penne); 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Ingredients

8 oz. pasta (fettuccine or penne)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Step 2: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or heat a grill pan on the stove over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 4: Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add asparagus pieces and blanch for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Transfer to ice water to stop cooking.

Step 5: Drain asparagus and pat dry.

Step 6: In the same boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta. Do not rinse.

Step 8: In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add blanched asparagus and sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 9: Add drained pasta to the skillet with asparagus and toss to combine.

Step 10: Gradually pour in reserved pasta water, stirring continuously, until the mixture becomes creamy and reaches your desired consistency.

Step 11: Add sliced grilled chicken to the skillet and toss everything together.

Step 12: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and drizzle with lemon juice. Toss until cheese melts and combines well. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 13: Serve the pasta in bowls or on plates. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Step 14: Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken asparagus pasta!

Tips & Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences while keeping the dish nutritious.

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.

Swap grilled chicken for shrimp or tofu to create a different protein variation.

For extra creaminess, stir in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream when adding the pasta water.

FAQs

Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen asparagus. Thaw and drain it well, then sauté briefly before adding to the pasta. Fresh asparagus will provide the best texture and flavor.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Fettuccine or penne are ideal because they hold the sauce well and complement the chicken and asparagus. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.