Craving a delicious and Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipe? This Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus Penne is a vibrant and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how simple yet flavorful this dish is to prepare.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for extra speed.
- Penne Pasta: Any short pasta like rotini or farfalle works well. Whole wheat penne makes it even healthier.
- Asparagus: Fresh green beans or broccoli florets are great alternatives.
- Lemon: Both zest and juice are crucial. Lime can be a substitute for the juice if needed.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is best for flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter option.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, tough ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large pot, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Sauté the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Asparagus and Garlic
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Add the asparagus and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine and Finish the Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus. Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Pasta and Serve
Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Creamy Version: Stir in a tablespoon or two of cream cheese or a splash of milk at the end for a richer sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate cherry tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.
- Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or dill for different flavor profiles.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best served fresh. The pasta can become a bit soft if made too far in advance.
What kind of chicken is best for this Healthy Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Chicken thighs offer a bit more flavor and moisture.
Can you use frozen asparagus?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Add it directly to the skillet with the chicken broth and lemon juice; it will cook quickly.
How do you prevent the pasta from sticking?
Ensure you use a large pot with plenty of salted water and stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a very mild kick. You can omit them entirely if you prefer no spice.
What if you don’t have fresh lemon?
Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon zest and juice provide the best, brightest flavor.