Asiago Chicken Pasta

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: 4 servings

Introduction to Asiago Chicken Pasta

As a lover of Italian cuisine, I’m excited to share with you one of my favorite dishes: Asiago Chicken Pasta. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and simplicity, making it a staple for any pasta enthusiast. In this article, I’ll guide you through why you’ll love it, how to make it, and some great serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love It

• Flavorful Cheese: Asiago cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
• Quick Preparation: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Customizable: You can easily add or substitute ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• Chicken:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Pasta:
  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup grated Asiago cheese, plus more for garnish
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
  • Parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Cooking the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Preparing the Pasta

1. Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain.
2. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Whisk in flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until lightly browned.
4. Gradually pour in milk, whisking continuously. Add Asiago cheese and stir until melted.
5. Add spinach and cook until wilted. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water.

Combining Everything

1. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
2. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and place on top of the pasta.
3. Garnish with additional Asiago cheese and parsley.

Serving Suggestions

• Add Vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Bread: Offer crusty bread for dipping in the cheesy sauce.

Tips for Customization

• Cheese Alternatives: Use Parmesan, Grana Padano, or Manchego if Asiago is not available.
• Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs or rotisserie chicken for a different texture.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or linguine.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

A: Add a bit of pasta water or milk to thin it out.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Reheat and combine just before serving. Enjoy your delicious Asiago Chicken Pasta!