Lemon Asparagus and Chicken Pasta Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta with Fresh Spring Flavors
This Lemon Asparagus and Chicken Pasta is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and a zesty lemon cream sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the ultimate spring-inspired meal—fresh, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this pasta delivers a perfect balance of brightness and comfort. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta shape or dairy-free alternatives.
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium pot (for pasta)
- Cutting board and knife
- Zester or grater
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Tongs or wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne, bowtie, or fusilli)
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon (Meyer preferred)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic and asparagus. Cook until asparagus is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Stir in lemon zest, juice, and cream. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Add chicken back to the pan, then toss in cooked pasta.
- Stir in Parmesan and reserved pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional parsley or chili flakes.
- Serve warm with lemon slices and extra cheese.
Notes
- Use Meyer lemons for a sweeter citrus flavor
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variation
- Use Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter or dairy-free version
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to prevent drying out