Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Dinner

Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken with the fresh crunch of asparagus, all enveloped in a comforting pasta. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a touch of elegance to your dining table. Originating from the heart of Italian cuisine, pasta has long been celebrated for its versatility and ability to bring people together. I love how this dish captures the essence of spring, showcasing seasonal ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious.

People adore Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta for its harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and al dente pasta create a satisfying meal that is both hearty and light. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me as we explore this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. of pasta (fettuccine or penne works great)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 bunch of fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. 2. **Preheat the Grill**: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it on the stove over medium-high heat. 3. **Grill the Chicken**: Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.

Preparing the Asparagus

4. **Blanch the Asparagus**: While the chicken is grilling, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the asparagus pieces and blanch them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help retain their vibrant color and crunch. 5. **Drain and Set Aside**: After a few minutes in the ice water, drain the asparagus and set it aside. You can pat them dry with a paper towel if needed.

Cooking the Pasta

6. **Cook the Pasta**: In the same pot of boiling water, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 7. **Reserve Pasta Water**: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. This starchy water will help create a creamy sauce later. 8. **Drain the Pasta**: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and set it aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that will help the sauce adhere.

Combining Ingredients

9. **Sauté the Asparagus**: In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the blanched asparagus and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until heated through. 10. **Add the Pasta**: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the asparagus. Toss to combine. 11. **Create the Sauce**: Pour in the reserved pasta water gradually, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes creamy. You may not need all the reserved water, so add it slowly until you reach your desired consistency. 12. **Add the Chicken**: Add the sliced grilled chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. 13. **Incorporate Cheese and Lemon**: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and drizzle the lemon juice. Toss everything together until the cheese is melted and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serving the Dish

14. **Plate the Pasta**: Serve the grilled chicken asparagus pasta in bowls or on plates. 15. **Garnish**: If desired, sprinkle with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. You can also add extra Parmesan cheese on top for those cheese lovers out there! 16. **Enjoy**: Dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled chicken asparagus pasta! This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh asparagus, and creamy pasta is sure to impress.

Storage Tips

17. **Store Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to

Conclusion:

In summary, this Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of tender grilled chicken, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your taste. Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, or toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness. You could even swap the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein to cater to different dietary preferences. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and make it your own! Whether you’re serving it up for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, I’m confident it will be a hit. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the deliciousness of this Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta. Happy cooking!

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