### Easy Chicken and Asparagus with Penne Pasta Recipe
Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner option that's packed with flavor? Look no further! This Chicken and Asparagus with Penne Pasta recipe is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prepping or as an elegant weeknight dinner. Here’s how to prepare it step-by-step:
#### Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
#### Preparation Steps:
1. **Cook the Penne Pasta:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, this will take about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:**
- While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until fully cooked through and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. **Cook the Asparagus:**
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil along with minced garlic.
- Stir for a minute until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add the asparagus and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you added them earlier.
4. **Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Asparagus:**
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the asparagus.
- Add the drained pasta, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Toss the ingredients together to coat evenly with any remaining pan juices.
5. **Serve and Garnish:**
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- Optionally, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the top for added flavor.
#### Tips for Success:
- Ensure your chicken is thoroughly seasoned before cooking to bring out its natural flavors.
- Use a sharp knife when trimming asparagus; this helps prevent it from splintering.
- For an even easier preparation, you can use pre-cut chicken or buy it already marinated.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
This Chicken and Asparagus with Penne Pasta is perfect for a healthy meal that’s quick to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Enjoy your cooking!