Name: Creamy Chicken and Asparagus
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: ½ teaspoon Salt; ½ teaspoon Pepper; 3 pieces Chicken Breasts (cut in half horizontally); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil; 1 tablespoon Butter; ½ piece Yellow Onion (sliced into moon shapes); 2 cups Half and Half; 1½ tablespoons Flour; 2 tablespoons Garlic Paste; ¾ cup Parmesan Cheese (shredded); ¼ cup Chicken Broth; 1 tablespoon Dried Basil; 1 pound Fresh Asparagus (cut into 2-inch pieces); Fresh Parsley (chopped)

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There’s something so comforting about a plate of Creamy Chicken and Asparagus that brings back memories of family dinners around the table. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy evening, the kind where all you want is something warm and filling. The aroma of sautéed onions and rich cream filled the air, wrapping everyone in a cozy hug. As I served the dish, the colors of the asparagus popping against the creamy sauce made it look as delightful as it tasted. It quickly became a staple in my home, and now, I can’t wait to share it with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
520 kcal

Protein:
38 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
36 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Large Pot

Why This Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Is So Good

Comfort Food at Its Best

What I love most about making Creamy Chicken and Asparagus is that it’s a true one-pan meal. You get to enjoy everything from sautéing the chicken to creating a silky sauce, all in a single skillet. This means fewer dishes to wash afterward, which is always a win in my book!

Seasonal Ingredients

This dish shines during the spring when asparagus is at its peak. There’s no substituting the freshness of those bright green spears—their crispness and vibrant color bring the dish to life. Plus, the combination of tender chicken and asparagus creates a beautiful harmony on your plate.

Versatility

Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify it by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge while still creating a delicious meal.

Kid-Friendly

My kids go crazy for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus. The creamy sauce is a hit, and I love knowing they’re getting their veggies in. It’s a meal that pleases both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner date.

Quick and Easy

With a prep time of just twenty minutes and a cooking time of around twenty-five, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. I often find myself throwing this meal together after a long day, and it never disappoints!

Impressive Presentation

Let’s face it; we eat with our eyes first. The vibrant colors and creamy texture of Creamy Chicken and Asparagus make it an impressive dish to serve at any dinner party. Just a sprinkle of parsley on top brings it all together beautifully.

What to Gather for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus

The ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus are straightforward yet incredibly satisfying. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that rich, creamy sauce that coats the chicken and asparagus perfectly. The balance of flavors is what makes this dish truly stand out.

½ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken and balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
½ teaspoon pepper – Adds a hint of spice that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
3 chicken breasts (cut in half horizontally) – The star of the dish, providing protein and substance.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for sautéing the chicken, adding a touch of richness.
1 tablespoon butter – Brings a depth of flavor to the sautéed onions.
½ yellow onion (sliced into moon shapes) – Adds sweetness and texture to the dish.
2 cups half and half – Creates the luxurious creamy sauce that envelops the chicken and asparagus.
1½ tablespoons flour – Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to the chicken.
2 tablespoons garlic paste – Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor.
¾ cup parmesan cheese (shredded) – Adds a savory, cheesy richness to the sauce.
¼ cup chicken broth – Enhances the flavor of the sauce and keeps it moist.
1 tablespoon dried basil – Introduces an aromatic herbal note that brightens the dish.
1 pound fresh asparagus (cut into 2-inch pieces) – Provides a fresh, crisp texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
fresh parsley (chopped) – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Step by Step Guide for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus

Getting started with Creamy Chicken and Asparagus is as easy as pie! You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this dish with just a few steps. Each one brings you closer to a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This step is crucial, as it helps to build the flavor base for the entire dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and place the seasoned chicken breasts in the pan. Cook and brown them for about six to eight minutes on each side, or until they develop a lovely golden color.
Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Remember to keep that delicious fond in the pan for the next step.
With the skillet still on the heat, add butter and the onion. Cook until the onions turn soft and translucent, about five to seven minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.
Next, pour in the half and half and sprinkle the flour over the top. Use a whisk to combine everything, ensuring there are no lumps. This is where the creamy sauce starts to come together!
Now it’s time to add in the garlic paste, parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and dried basil. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and begins to bubble gently. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious browned bits.
Once your sauce is ready, toss in the fresh asparagus. Stir it into the sauce and bring everything to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about five minutes, allowing the asparagus to become tender yet still crisp.
After the asparagus has cooked, uncover the skillet and place the chicken back into the sauce. Cover it again and let it simmer for an additional three to four minutes to heat through.
Finally, top the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This touch adds not only flavor but also a beautiful visual appeal!

Things Worth Knowing

Using a non-stick skillet: This is vital for preventing the creamy sauce from sticking to the bottom, making clean-up a breeze.
Slowly adding cream: Pour it gradually while stirring to avoid curdling and achieve a velvety consistency.
Deglazing the pan: Make sure to scrape up the browned bits left after cooking the chicken. They add a depth of flavor to your sauce.
Tender-crisp asparagus: Look for that bright green color and a little snap when you bite into the asparagus for the best texture.

Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous with Creamy Chicken and Asparagus, there are plenty of exciting variations to explore! Each one adds a unique twist to this already delicious dish.

Add more veggies: Try incorporating bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Change the protein: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile that still pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Experiment with herbs: Instead of dried basil, you could use thyme or oregano to switch up the flavor.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat that complements the creaminess.
Serve over pasta: For a heartier meal, serve this creamy dish over your favorite pasta or grain.
Make it a bake: Top with breadcrumbs and bake in the oven for a crispy topping that contrasts with the creaminess.

What to Pair With Creamy Chicken and Asparagus

When it comes to serving Creamy Chicken and Asparagus, there are endless possibilities for delicious pairings. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up that creamy sauce.
Pasta: Pair with your favorite pasta for a filling, comforting dish that feels like a hug.
Steamed rice: White or brown rice makes a great base for this dish, absorbing the rich sauce.
Side salads: A light, green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
Seasonal vegetables: Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any special occasion!

FAQ

While fresh asparagus provides a wonderful texture and flavor, you can use frozen asparagus in a pinch. Just be aware that frozen vegetables often release more water when cooking, so adjust your sauce accordingly. You may want to add a bit more flour to thicken the sauce if necessary. Make sure to cook the frozen asparagus longer than fresh until heated through.

To make Creamy Chicken and Asparagus gluten-free, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Both work well in thickening the sauce without sacrificing flavor. Be sure to double-check the labels of your other ingredients, like the chicken broth and parmesan cheese, to ensure they are also gluten-free.

If you don’t have half-and-half on hand, you can make your own by combining equal parts of heavy cream and milk. This will mimic the creamy texture and richness that half-and-half provides. Alternatively, you could use just heavy cream for an even richer sauce, but remember to balance it with some extra broth or milk to keep it from being too thick.

Yes, you can prepare Creamy Chicken and Asparagus ahead of time! Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce, but don’t add the asparagus until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the asparagus vibrant and crisp when you finally heat it up. Store the cooked chicken and sauce in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the asparagus, cooking until tender.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken and Asparagus is truly a delightful dish that combines vibrant vegetables with tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions and is sure to please everyone at the table. I encourage you to try making this dish; you won’t be disappointed! It’s easy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying!