Delight in Creamy Penne: Chicken & Asparagus Bliss

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Introduction

Welcome to the delicious world of Creamy Penne with Chicken and Asparagus! Imagine sitting around the dinner table with friends and family, enjoying a dish that’s not too fussy yet exquisitely delightful. This meal is pure bliss, combining succulent chicken, crisp asparagus, and perfectly cooked penne, all enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Every bite of this penne dish is a little piece of happiness. It’s light yet satisfying, luxurious yet budget-friendly, making it the perfect option for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Whether you’re celebrating the end of a long week with a glass of vino or hosting a cozy dinner with friends, this recipe will become your go-to. It’s got the kind of versatility that every busy home cook needs.

For those of us who often find our culinary inspiration from whatever ingredients linger in the fridge, this recipe is a savior. It’s forgiving, adaptable, and a sure-fire crowd-pleaser. For me, this chicken and asparagus penne is more than just food. It’s a reflection of late nights in the kitchen experimenting with flavors, figuring out the perfect balance that keeps everyone asking for “just a little more.” So, prepare to dive into every step of creating this Italian-inspired, flavor-packed gem that’s destined to become your family’s new favorite!

Budget Information

Creating a meal like our Creamy Penne with Chicken and Asparagus shouldn’t break the bank. Here’s a rough cost breakdown for each ingredient, giving you an idea of this dish’s affordability:

• Whole Wheat Penne Pasta (12 ounces): $2.00
• Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 1/4 pounds): $6.00
• Fresh Asparagus (1 pound): $3.50
• Diced Onion (1 1/2 cups): $1.00
• Red and Yellow Bell Peppers (one each): $1.50 each
• Olive Oil (6 tablespoons): $1.20
• Dried Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): $0.10
• Balsamic Vinegar (2 tablespoons): $0.50
• Fresh Chopped Parsley (1/4 cup): $0.75
• Crumbled Feta Cheese (2 ounces): $2.50
• Minced Garlic (6 cloves): $0.30
• Low-sodium Chicken Broth (1 cup): $0.75
• Milk or Half-and-Half (1 cup): $0.80
• Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon): $0.05
• Juice of 1/2 Lemon: $0.30
• Reserved Pasta Water (1/2 cup): Free

Total Approximate Cost: $20.25

This cost is approximate and can vary depending on where you live and where you shop. However, for about $20, you can whip up a meal that generously serves four, making it both budget-friendly and deliciously worthwhile.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out thanks to its flavorful, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the penne, chicken, and asparagus. It’s foolproof and adaptable, offering many opportunities for customization while staying true to its roots. The blend of rich, velvety sauce with just the right amount of garlic and lemon elevates it to restaurant-quality status. Moreover, with lean protein and vibrant veggies, it strikes a great nutritional balance.

The chicken browns beautifully to provide satisfying texture, while the asparagus adds a delightful crunch. The sauce, with its creamy richness, ties all these fantastic elements together, ensuring a dish that has everyone asking for seconds. Plus, being easily adaptable makes it perfect for families, picky eaters, and those with dietary restrictions.

Ingredients + Optional Substitutions

Essential Ingredients

• 12 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
  Substitution: Regular penne or gluten-free pasta

• 1 1/4 pounds (20 ounces) boneless chicken breasts
  Substitution: Chicken thighs or tofu for a vegetarian twist

• 1 pound (16 ounces) fresh asparagus
  Substitution: Broccoli or green beans

• 1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) diced onion

• 1 red bell pepper (approximately 6 ounces)

• 1 yellow bell pepper (approximately 6 ounces)

• 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

• 2 tablespoons (1 ounce) balsamic vinegar

• 1/4 cup (1 ounce) fresh chopped parsley

• 2 ounces crumbled feta cheese (about 1/2 cup)

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup milk or half-and-half
  Substitution: Almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option

• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

• 1/2 lemon, juiced

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water

Optional Add-ins and Variations

• Half-and-half for added creaminess
• Extra vegetables such as spinach or arugula for color and nutrition

These additions can elevate your dish by enhancing flavors, adding nutritional value, or simply keeping things exciting for your taste buds.

Equipment

Make sure to gather your kitchen essentials before diving into this cooking journey. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A large pot for boiling penne
• A large skillet for the sauce and chicken
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Strainer
• Citrus juicer (optional but recommended for efficiently juicing lemon)

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 12 ounces of penne pasta and stir frequently at first to prevent sticking. Allow it to cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Pay special attention to the texture—you want the pasta to still have a slight bite. Drain the pasta well, reserving about half a cup of the pasta cooking water. This step is crucial because this starchy water can adjust the sauce’s final consistency later on.

2. While your pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken cubes in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Let them brown on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This browning develops flavor. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside, leaving any cooked-up bits and juices in the pan.

3. In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and heat over medium. Toss in the diced onion, and let it sauté until it’s soft and translucent. Add minced garlic, and after about 30 seconds, the aroma should waft upwards—breathe it in as an indicator of moving forward. Now, add the asparagus and bell peppers, stirring occasionally. Cook them for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp, maintaining their vibrant color.

4. Deglaze the skillet by adding balsamic vinegar, scrapping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom. These are flavor bombs packed with deliciousness. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mix, and add Italian seasoning and thyme. Pour in the chicken broth and lower the heat, letting the pot simmer.

5. Lower the heat still further to medium-low, add milk or your dairy/non-dairy choice, stirring constantly. Next comes the star element: slowly add crumbled feta cheese while stirring until it melts into the sauce. Add salt, pepper, a splash of lemon juice, and garnish with parsley. If the sauce looks too thick, gradually mix in reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creamy consistency.

6. Now comes the grand finale. Add the cooked pasta into your skillet and mix gently until evenly coated with the sauce. Let the mixture sit for a minute, allowing flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Facts

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 460
• Protein: 23g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 244mg

Please note these are approximate values and can fluctuate based on specific ingredient brands.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store any leftover penne bliss, adhere to these storage tips:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer-friendly: Although cream-based sauces don’t freeze elegantly, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure you use a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion.

Reheating options to maintain deliciousness:

• Microwave: Heat on medium power to avoid splitting the sauce, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on low, adding a bit of milk to adjust consistency as necessary.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful dish hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a crisp garden salad to add freshness, or a slice of crusty garlic bread for extra indulgence. As for beverages, this penne pairs well with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.

Reader Tips or Helpful Notes

1. Short on time? Prep your veggies early, storing them in airtight containers until needed.
2. Brighten flavors with a little lemon zest.
3. Try adding pine nuts for a nuttier twist.
4. No asparagus? Use spinach or arugula for a quick substitution.
5. Balance richness by serving with a fresh citrus salad.
6. Avoid sauce separation by not letting it boil too hard.
7. Pasta overcooked? Toss with a bit of oil to maintain texture.
8. Love heat? Add a touch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
9. Cheese swaps are possible if feta isn’t a favorite; try parmesan or goat cheese for a change.
10. Freezer hack: Portion and freeze any leftovers for ready-to-eat meals.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap penne with any pasta that holds sauce well, like rotini or farfalle.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Gently reheating on the stovetop is recommended, as this maintains the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Can I prepare any parts of this meal ahead of time?
Certainly! Cook the pasta and chicken ahead, storing them separately. Prepare the sauce when ready to serve.

I’m not a fan of feta cheese. Any suggestions?
Try using mozzarella or goat cheese to keep that delicious creamy texture.

Conclusion

With this fabulous Creamy Penne with Chicken and Asparagus recipe in your arsenal, your dinner routine is ready to level up in deliciousness and simplicity. It’s a wonderful blend of flavors and textures, ready to make any gathering special. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding favorite herbs, extra spices, or using whatever fresh veggies you have on hand.

I challenge you to cook up this delightful dish, join the penne perfectionist ranks, and share your creations using #PenneBliss on social media. Be sure to leave feedback in the comments, sharing personal tweaks or asking any questions you might have. Let’s build a community of creative cookery masters, bite by delightful bite. Happy Cooking! 🍽️

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