Chicken Asparagus Pasta With Lemon Sauce
A vibrant chicken and asparagus pasta tossed in a zesty lemon sauce, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that suits both weeknights and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions, then drain and keep warm.
- Melt butter in a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken strips and sauté for about 5 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chicken broth, lemon juice, heavy cream, scallions, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Cook until slightly thickened.
- Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the asparagus. Cook until the asparagus is tender but still crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, chicken, and vegetables. Toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. You can substitute the asparagus with broccoli or green beans if desired. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or replace it with Greek yogurt. To enhance the dish, top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Easy Chicken-Rice Dinner for a satisfying spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Asparagus Pasta With Lemon Sauce contains roughly 433 calories, with 8g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1979mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh?
While fresh asparagus provides the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch to thicken the sauce. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a nut-based cream substitute.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken; it should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).