RECIPE⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️⬇️. MY PASTA
(Save this recipe—you’ll thank me later!)
INGREDIENTS
• 2–3 lbs chicken breast, diced
• 1 whole head garlic, minced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 lb asparagus, chopped
• Butter
• 1 tbsp Better Than Bouillon (chicken)
• Tony’s + Slap Ya Mama seasoning (to taste)
• ~32 oz heavy cream
• 9 oz shaved Parmesan (reserve some for topping)
• 1 box penne pasta
DIRECTIONS
1. Cook the chicken – Season generously, brown well, then remove from the pan.
2. Build the flavor – In the same pan, sauté garlic in butter with the Better Than Bouillon, scraping up all those golden chicken bits.
3. Add the tomatoes – Cook for 1 minute until just starting to burst.
4. Make it creamy – Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
5. Cheese time – Stir in about 6 oz Parmesan until smooth and melted.
6. Bring it together – Add the chicken and asparagus, then simmer until asparagus is just tender.
7. Finish it off – Toss in the cooked penne and the rest of the Parmesan. Let it thicken into cheesy, creamy perfection.
8. Taste & swoon – Seriously… this one’s a keeper.
This creamy chicken asparagus penne pasta recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining tender chicken, fresh asparagus, burst cherry tomatoes, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Using a whole head of garlic enhances the dish with a robust and aromatic base, while Better Than Bouillon adds depth and savory notes that elevate the overall taste. To achieve the best results, use fresh, quality ingredients such as ripe cherry tomatoes which add a slight sweetness that balances the savory cream sauce. The asparagus should be chopped into bite-sized pieces and cooked just until tender to retain its crunch and vibrant color. When browning the chicken, ensure it develops a nice golden crust for added complexity of flavor. The seasoning blend of Tony's and Slap Ya Mama seasoning brings a unique Cajun-inspired kick that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Incorporating shaved Parmesan both into the sauce and as a topping adds a nutty, salty richness that melts perfectly to create a luscious texture. For cooking the penne pasta, aim for al dente to match the creamy consistency of the sauce. Toss the pasta into the sauce near the end to allow it to absorb flavors. This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions as it is both easy to prepare and impressively flavorful. Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. To adapt the recipe, substitute chicken with shrimp or vegetarian options like mushrooms for different variations. Additionally, using half-and-half or milk can lighten the creaminess while still maintaining a rich taste. This recipe offers a delicious and hearty meal that balances fresh vegetables, protein, and a decadent sauce, making it a versatile and satisfying pasta dish.
