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Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Asparagus

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta with Asparagus is a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and vibrant asparagus, all coated in a creamy, zesty Parmesan sauce, this dish delivers a perfect balance of richness and freshness.

With simple ingredients and a 30-minute cook time, this one-pan meal is both delicious and customizable. Whether you keep it classic or add a spicy twist, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Serve with garlic bread, a crisp salad, or a glass of white wine for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

  • 8 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the asparagus and garlic for 2-3 minutes until the asparagus is tender-crisp.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
  6. Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

 

Notes

  • Customize the protein – Swap chicken for shrimp, salmon, or tofu.
  • Adjust the spice level – Add or skip red pepper flakes based on preference.
  • Make it healthier – Use whole wheat pasta or substitute Greek yogurt for some of the cream.
  • Storage tip – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Looking for more creamy pasta inspiration? Explore these easy pasta recipes for more ideas