Looking for a quick and easy dinner idea? Our chicken asparagus recipe is the perfect solution. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table. This one pan garlic herb chicken and asparagus recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor.
The dish features tender chicken breasts or thighs cooked with fresh asparagus in a skillet. The combination of herbs, minced garlic, and butter creates a mouthwatering buttery herbed flavor that will have your taste buds singing. Plus, the best part is that this recipe requires minimal cleanup as it is all cooked in just one pan.
Whether you’re a busy parent or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, our chicken asparagus recipe is a fantastic option. It’s easy, convenient, and delivers on taste. So why not give it a try tonight?
Chicken Asparagus Recipe Ingredients
To make this delicious chicken and asparagus dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3-6 chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even ½ inch thickness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
These easy chicken asparagus recipe ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store, and together they create a healthy and flavorful meal.
Chicken Asparagus Recipe Instructions
Follow these simple instructions to prepare the chicken asparagus recipe:
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), and onion powder. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the chicken to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and nearly cooked through.
- Push the chicken to one side of the pan and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the empty portion of the pan.
- Once the butter is melted, add the asparagus to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the asparagus for 4-6 minutes, rotating occasionally, until it is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the chicken and asparagus immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition Details of Chicken Asparagus
This chicken asparagus recipe offers a healthy and nutritious meal option. Here are the nutrition details per serving:
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 84 mg
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Potassium: 433 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Vitamin A: 948 IU
- Vitamin C: 7 mg
- Calcium: 57 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
Variations of Chicken Asparagus Recipe
While this chicken asparagus recipe is delicious as it is, you can also add your own twist to enhance its flavors. Try out these exciting variations:
Tropical: To give the dish a tropical twist, add soy sauce, brown sugar, Sriracha, and garlic. The combination of these ingredients will infuse the chicken and asparagus with a tangy and sweet flavor.
Indian: For those who enjoy bold and aromatic spices, experiment with Indian flavors. Use butter, garam masala, garlic, cumin, cayenne, tomatoes, and cilantro to create a vibrant and rich dish that will take your taste buds on a journey to the streets of India.
Mexican: If you prefer a Mexican-inspired dish, transform the chicken and asparagus by adding peppers, onions, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and a squeeze of lime juice. The result will be a zesty, flavorful, and satisfying meal.
Thai: Experience the exotic flavors of Thailand by grilling the chicken with a marinade made from a blend of sweet, savory, and tangy ingredients. Think lemongrass, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of brown sugar. Serve it with a side of spicy Thai chicken kabobs for a memorable and authentic Thai feast.
Serving Suggestions of Chicken Asparagus
- With Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken and asparagus over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The grains will soak up any extra sauce, adding more flavor to every bite.
- With Mashed Potatoes: Pair the dish with creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the tender chicken and crunchy asparagus.
- As a Pasta Dish: Toss the chicken and asparagus with cooked pasta, such as penne or fettuccine, and add a bit of parmesan cheese on top for a delightful twist.
- With a Side Salad: Accompany the meal with a fresh side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the main dish.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or crusty French bread to add a satisfying crunch and help soak up any remaining sauce.
Reheating Tips for Chicken Asparagus
- Microwave: Place the chicken and asparagus in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in one-minute increments until heated through, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken and asparagus in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter, then place the chicken and asparagus in the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid Overheating: Reheat only until just warmed through to prevent the chicken from becoming tough and the asparagus from getting mushy.
Conclusion
Chicken and asparagus is a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, from grains and pasta to salads and breads. Whether serving immediately or reheating leftovers, following these tips will ensure a tasty and satisfying meal every time. Enjoy the tender, flavorful chicken and crisp, fresh asparagus, enhanced by your choice of complementary sides and the convenience of simple reheating methods.
FAQs
Is this chicken asparagus recipe easy to make?
Yes, this chicken asparagus recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
How long does it take to prepare this chicken and asparagus dish?
This recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes approximately 3-6 servings, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
Can I garnish the chicken and asparagus dish with fresh herbs?
Yes, you can garnish the chicken and asparagus with fresh herbs for added flavor and presentation.
Chicken Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
- 3-6 chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to an even ½ inch thickness
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound asparagus ends trimmed
- 3 tablespoons butter divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh herbs for garnish optional
Instructions
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.Salt and pepper to taste, 3-6 chicken thighs or boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat.3 tablespoons butter
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), and onion powder. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.1 tablespoon minced garlic, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the chicken to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until browned and nearly cooked through.
- Push the chicken to one side of the pan and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the empty portion of the pan.
- Once the butter is melted, add the asparagus to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.1 pound asparagus
- Cook the asparagus for 4-6 minutes, rotating occasionally, until it is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the chicken and asparagus immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.Fresh herbs for garnish
