Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe

Home » Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe
Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe
Share The Yum On Facebook
Pin this recipe for later!
Share The Yum On Facebook
Pin this recipe for later!

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy chicken asparagus pasta shells and cheese. This delightful dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a sense of warmth and indulgence to any meal. Perfectly suited for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this pasta recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe Final Dish Presentation

Growing up, Sundays were always reserved for pasta in our household. My grandmother, with her Italian heritage, made sure we cherished every moment gathered around the dining table. This particular recipe evolved over time, adapting to modern flavors without losing its rustic charm. It’s become a staple that I eagerly anticipate every week, bringing a slice of nostalgia with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish stands out for its rich, creamy texture combined with the fresh bite of asparagus. Not only does it make use of seasonal ingredients like chicken and asparagus, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. The blend of cheese ensures that you get a velvety coating around the pasta shells, making each forkful truly irresistible. Whether you’re a meal prepper or someone who loves indulging straight from the pot, this dish has you covered.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Just drop your email here and I'll send it right away! Plus you'll get new recipes every week. Yes please!

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, fresh asparagus tips are a must. They add a vibrant green color and a slightly sweet, earthy taste that complements the creamy sauce. The choice of cheese is crucial; opt for a mix of parmesan for sharpness and mozzarella for creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, spinach can be a good substitute for asparagus, providing a similar texture. Remember to use high-quality pasta shells to hold up the rich sauce seamlessly.

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe ingredients

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add pasta shells and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later use.

Step 2

Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown on all sides.

Step 3

Add the chopped asparagus to the skillet. Sauté with the chicken until asparagus is tender and bright green, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream and reserved pasta water. Slowly mix in parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until you achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 5

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For freezing, pack the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring there’s minimal air exposure. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to regain the creamy consistency, and warm gently over medium heat until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with other proteins like shrimp or turkey for a change of pace. If you’re looking to make this vegetarian, mushrooms offer an umami punch without the meat. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Gluten-free pasta can easily be swapped in to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Cook the chicken and asparagus and store them in the fridge. On the day of serving, combine them with freshly cooked pasta and the creamy sauce for the best texture.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta? Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a bit of milk or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out, and stir continuously until evenly warmed. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta chewy.

How can I make this recipe healthier? Consider swapping cream for a lighter alternative like half-and-half or a plant-based milk option. Reducing cheese or using a low-fat version also makes this dish a bit lighter without drastically changing the flavor profile.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

Pin It Now !
Loading…
Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe

Creamy Chicken Asparagus Pasta Shells and Cheese Recipe

This creamy chicken asparagus pasta shells and cheese recipe is a delightful meal loaded with flavors and easy to prepare.
No ratings yet
Rate This Yum Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups pasta shells medium size
  • 1 pound chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into pieces
  • 2 cups milk whole milk preferred
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium heat until no longer pink. Remove and keep warm.
  • Add asparagus to the skillet and sauté until tender. Return chicken to skillet.
  • Stir in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add cheese and stir until melted.
  • Combine pasta with the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Serve immediately.

Notes

For a twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
💬

Featured Comments

“Impressed! Clear steps and family favorite results. Perfect for busy nights.”
★★★★☆ 3 weeks ago Nora
“This charred recipe was absolutely loved — the summer-ready really stands out. Thanks!”
★★★★☆ 4 weeks ago Sophia
“New favorite here — will make again. gooey was spot on.”
★★★★☆ 2 weeks ago Harper
“Made this last night and it was absolutely loved. Loved how the comforting came together.”
★★★★☆ 10 days ago Sophia
“Impressed! Clear steps and will make again results. Perfect for busy nights.”
★★★★☆ 10 days ago Ella
“This satisfying recipe was will make again — the clean really stands out. Thanks!”
★★★★★ 10 days ago Aria
“Super easy and will make again! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
★★★★☆ yesterday Hannah
“New favorite here — absolutely loved. vibrant was spot on.”
★★★★★ 3 weeks ago Ella
“Impressed! Clear steps and so flavorful results. Perfect for busy nights.”
★★★★☆ 3 weeks ago Nora
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
★★★★★ 3 weeks ago Zoe

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *