Creamy Asiago Chicken Asparagus Pasta (Print Version)

Tender chicken and roasted asparagus in a creamy Asiago cheese sauce with linguine.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meats

01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 14 oz), cut into bite-sized pieces

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 bunch (about 10.5 oz) asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped

→ Pasta

05 - 12.3 oz linguine

→ Dairy & Cheese

06 - 4.2 oz Asiago cheese, freshly grated (divided)
07 - 6 fl oz heavy cream
08 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
09 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

→ Pantry & Spices

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

# How to Make:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss asparagus pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the grated Asiago cheese. Spread on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 12–15 minutes until tender and cheese is golden and crisp. Let cool slightly, then roughly chop.
02 - Cook linguine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 4 fl oz pasta water, then drain and set aside.
03 - Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove to a plate.
04 - In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 2–3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and remaining Asiago cheese. Simmer gently until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly, 2–3 minutes. If too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water.
05 - Add cooked linguine, chicken, and chopped roasted asparagus to the skillet. Toss to combine and heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon zest or red pepper flakes if desired.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with extra Asiago or Parmesan cheese.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Vibrant Spring Flavors: The combination of fresh asparagus and lemon zest brings a light, seasonal touch.
  • Dual-Texture Asparagus: Roasting the asparagus with Asiago creates a unique golden, crispy exterior.
  • Rich and Creamy: A sophisticated Italian-American sauce that is more flavorful than a standard Alfredo.
02 -
  • Cheese Quality: Using high-quality Asiago makes a significant difference in the flavor profile of the sauce.
  • Asparagus Texture: Ensure the asparagus is cut into uniform pieces so they roast evenly.
  • Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is liquid gold—use it to adjust the sauce to your preferred level of creaminess.
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