This creamy chicken and asparagus recipe is a family favorite! Tender chicken is combined with bright asparagus in a dreamy, rich sauce. It’s satisfying and perfect for dinner!
I love how easy it is to make, plus it looks fancy enough for guests! Serve it over rice or pasta, and watch everyone go back for seconds. Who can say no to creamy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey breast or tofu can work well too, especially for a lighter or vegetarian meal.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds a nice crunch. However, you could substitute with green beans or broccoli if asparagus isn’t available. Just remember to adjust cooking times as needed!
Heavy Cream: This provides that rich creaminess, but you can swap it with half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream for lighter or lactose-free options. I’ve done this, and it still tastes great!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a sharp flavor. If you’re out of it, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor for a vegan twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for taste, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can be used. Just use a small amount since it’s more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken properly ensures it’s juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet on medium heat and add olive oil before adding the chicken.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a nice crust.
- Cook without moving it for the first few minutes. This allows it to brown nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices before slicing.
Following these steps will give you tender, flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Asparagus
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh chives or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and asparagus recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious meal that you can whip up easily on a weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced chicken and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Asparagus:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it smells really good. Then, toss in the asparagus pieces and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re tender yet still have a nice crunch. This adds a lovely pop of color and freshness!
3. Combine Ingredients:
Now, reduce the heat to low and return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes so the flavors blend nicely.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Slowly pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce until it’s just right. If you like, sprinkle in Italian seasoning here for a little extra flavor.
5. Final Touches and Serve:
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Once satisfied, serve your creamy chicken and asparagus hot, garnished with some chopped chives or parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. For best results, thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing. Be sure to pat it dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you need a lighter alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter (use 3/4 cup milk plus 1/4 cup melted butter). Keep in mind that this may result in a slightly less creamy sauce, so adjust simmering time accordingly to achieve your desired thickness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce thickens upon cooling, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up while reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with sliced mushrooms or tofu, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Keep the asparagus and cream as is for a deliciously creamy veggie option!
