Description

Creamy Black Pepper Chicken Pasta with Asparagus is a delightful dish combining tender chicken breasts, al dente pasta, crisp asparagus, and melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) in a rich, pepper-kissed creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a harmonious blend of bold, creamy, and fresh flavors in a quick and easy meal ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Vegetables

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and sliced into bite-size pieces

Pasta and Cheese

8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)

Liquids and Sauces

1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Aromatics and Seasonings

3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to taste
Salt, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken and Asparagus: Season chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden on the outside and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté asparagus until crisp-tender and bright green, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent and slightly golden. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Build the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in heavy cream or coconut cream. Add apple cider vinegar and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Stir and let the sauce thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes. Fold in shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked and drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with the sauce. Slice chicken breasts into strips and add to the skillet along with asparagus. Mix carefully and warm through for 2 minutes.
Final Touches: Give a final twist of freshly cracked black pepper over the dish. Taste for seasoning and adjust salt if needed. Serve immediately for the best creamy, peppery experience.

Notes

Use freshly cracked black pepper to elevate flavor and aroma.
Do not overcook asparagus; keep it crisp-tender for texture and color.
Simmer the cream sauce gently to prevent curdling and maintain smoothness.
Let the chicken rest briefly before slicing to retain juices.
Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick and to help it cling to the pasta.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 35 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy pasta, black pepper chicken, asparagus pasta, easy weeknight dinner, creamy chicken recipe