Lemon Asparagus Chicken Pasta is a bright and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a light lemon cream sauce tossed with pasta. It’s a perfect meal for springtime or any day you crave something fresh yet satisfying. The zesty lemon and crisp asparagus balance beautifully with the creamy sauce, making every bite full of flavor and comfort.
Ingredients
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8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cups asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Juice and zest of 1 lemon
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon butter
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¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Time
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 25 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes
Serving
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Serves 4
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water. -
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside. -
Sauté the Asparagus:
In the same skillet, add the butter. Toss in the asparagus and cook for about 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
Make the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. -
Combine Everything:
Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. -
Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition (per serving)
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Calories: 480
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Protein: 36g
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 3g
Tips
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Add spinach or peas for extra color and nutrition.
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Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
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For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese.
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The sauce thickens as it cools, so serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Fresh, creamy, and full of sunshine flavor, Lemon Asparagus Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of comfort and brightness — a satisfying dish that feels as good as it tastes.
