Vermicelli With Asparagus And Slivered Chicken
A vibrant and light dish featuring tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and toasted vermicelli, accented with lemon, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler or grill.
- Rub the chicken cutlets with 1 teaspoon of coarse mustard.
- Broil or grill the chicken until cooked through, about 4 to 5 minutes on each side.
- While the chicken is cooking, cook the vermicelli according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped asparagus and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked vermicelli to the skillet with asparagus.
- Stir in lemon juice and pulp, a pinch of grated nutmeg, and slivered sun-dried tomatoes.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and serve topped with the grilled chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using grilled shrimp instead of chicken or substitute quinoa for vermicelli for a gluten-free option. Adding a splash of white wine to the skillet while cooking the asparagus can enhance the flavor. Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra touch. If you prefer a creamier texture, a dollop of crème fraîche can be stirred in before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vermicelli with asparagus and slivered chicken alongside a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Gian-Mikel'S Grilled Chicken Breasts for a hearty meal or can be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying lighter option. Consider adding crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vermicelli With Asparagus And Slivered Chicken contains roughly 402 calories, with 10g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), protein (20% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus, but be sure to thaw and drain it before cooking. Frozen asparagus tends to be softer, so reduce the cooking time to avoid mushiness. Fresh asparagus will provide a better texture and flavor, but frozen is a convenient alternative if fresh is unavailable.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are excellent alternatives that offer a similar salty and nutty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just adjust the quantity to taste, as the flavor intensity may vary.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and substitute it with grilled tofu or tempeh for protein. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. Using vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the vermicelli will enhance the overall taste as well.
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).