Savory Penne with Chicken and Asparagus 🍝🐔🌱

This delightful dish is a beautiful combination of tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and al dente penne pasta, all tossed together in a light and flavorful sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress!

Pair it with a fresh side salad and a glass of your favorite beverage to complete the meal. 🥗🥂

Ingredients

For the pasta

• 1 package (16 ounces) dried penne pasta
• Salt (for the pasta water)

For the chicken and asparagus

• 5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Garlic powder to taste
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 bunch slender asparagus, trimmed and cut on the diagonal into 1-inch pieces
• 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

   💡 For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the boiling water.

2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

3. Sauté the Asparagus: Pour the chicken broth into the same skillet. Add the asparagus, sliced garlic, and a pinch more garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover and steam until the asparagus is just tender, about 5 to 10 minutes.

   🔍 Check the asparagus near the end of cooking to avoid oversteaming. It should be vibrant green and still slightly crunchy.

4. Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm through. Then, stir the chicken mixture into the cooked pasta, mixing well. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes to absorb flavors.

5. Finishing Touches: Drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, stir again, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

   🧀 For a little extra flair, try garnishing with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley.

Variations

• Add Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Just keep cooking times in mind!
• Veggie Boost: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to enhance the freshness and color of the dish.
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions while keeping the flavors intact.

Enjoy your cooking adventure, and share this delightful meal with family and friends! 🍽️💖