Description

Tender chicken and crisp asparagus tossed in a rich, creamy pesto sauce enveloping fettuccine pasta. This asparagus-chicken pesto pasta delivers a comforting meal with vibrant flavors and a satisfying texture, ideal for busy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb chicken breasts (trimmed)
1 tsp salt (divided)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 lb asparagus (ends trimmed and cut into 2″ pieces)
2 cups heavy whipping cream
4 Tbsp pesto sauce
4 Tbsp olive oil
12 oz fettuccini pasta (or linguine)

Instructions

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to the package directions until it reaches your preferred doneness. While the pasta cooks, continue with the recipe and combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the fifth step.
Prepare the chicken by slicing the breasts in half lengthwise and seasoning all sides with 1/2 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in a single layer and sauté until fully cooked, about 3 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into bite-sized strips.
In the same pan, add 2 Tbsp of olive oil and toss in the asparagus pieces. Sauté while stirring occasionally for 2-3 minutes until they are crisp-tender.
To create the sauce, pour in 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, allowing it to come to a simmer. Cook for 3 minutes while stirring occasionally. Mix in 4 Tbsp of pesto, then add the sliced chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning of the sauce with 1/2 tsp of salt or to your taste.
Incorporate the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring well to coat the noodles. Remove from heat and serve immediately. If desired, garnish with basil or parsley.

Notes

TECHNIQUE TIP: Add salt to the pasta water for better seasoning, creating a taste similar to ocean water.

STORAGE: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

SUBSTITUTION: Use broccoli instead of asparagus for a different flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 535 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 459 mg
Fat: 35 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 20 g
Cholesterol: 154 mg