9 Best Chicken and Asparagus Recipes for Quick, Healthy Dinners

Chicken and asparagus make a great combination that is not only tasty but also healthy. I enjoy exploring different ways to prepare these ingredients, as they can be versatile and perfect for various meals. In this article, I will share nine of the best chicken and asparagus recipes that are simple to make and delicious.

These recipes cater to different tastes and cooking styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone. From easy weeknight dinners to more elaborate dishes for special occasions, I believe these options will help anyone looking to incorporate chicken and asparagus into their meal planning.

1. Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Asparagus is a simple and flavorful dish. It combines tender chicken with fresh asparagus, topped with a zesty lemon and garlic sauce.

This recipe is easy to make and takes about 30 minutes. I love how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To prepare, I follow these steps:

1. Start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, I mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, 3 minced garlic cloves, salt, and pepper.
3. Place 4 chicken breasts on a baking sheet and drizzle the mixture over them.
4. Add 1 pound of trimmed asparagus around the chicken.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.

This dish is nutritious and satisfying. The garlic adds a nice kick, while the lemon brightens the flavors. It’s a recipe I often return to for its simplicity and taste.

2. Honey Mustard Chicken and Asparagus

Honey mustard chicken and asparagus is a simple yet flavorful dish. It combines tender chicken with the sweet and tangy taste of honey mustard sauce. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To prepare this meal, I start by gathering my ingredients: chicken breasts, asparagus, honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Here are the short steps I follow:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, I mix ¼ cup of honey, ¼ cup of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
3. I season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then coat them with the honey mustard mixture.
4. I place the chicken on a baking sheet and surround it with trimmed asparagus.
5. I drizzle more honey mustard sauce over the asparagus.
6. I bake everything for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.

This dish is wholesome and satisfying. The combination of chicken and asparagus offers good nutrition in one plate.

3. Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Asparagus

Parmesan Crusted Chicken and Asparagus is a delicious dish combining tender chicken and fresh asparagus with a flavorful cheese crust. It’s easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To prepare this meal, I start by preheating my oven to 400°F (200°C). Next, I season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, I dip them in beaten egg and coat them with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.

While preparing the chicken, I wash and trim the asparagus. I toss the asparagus in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper.

In a baking dish, I arrange the chicken and the asparagus side by side. I then bake everything for about 20-25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the asparagus should be tender.

This dish offers a great balance of protein and vegetables, making it a healthy choice for dinner. Plus, the cheesy crust adds a delicious crunch to each bite.

4. Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Asparagus Skillet

Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Asparagus Skillet is a simple and tasty dish. It combines tender chicken with fresh asparagus in a flavorful balsamic glaze. This dish is straightforward to make and takes about 30 minutes.

To prepare, I follow these steps:

1. Ingredients: I gather boneless chicken breasts, asparagus, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook Chicken: First, I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Then, I add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until they are golden brown.
3. Add Asparagus: Next, I place asparagus in the same skillet. I cook it for 3-4 minutes until it is tender and slightly crispy.
4. Make Glaze: I then pour balsamic vinegar over the chicken and asparagus. I let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to thicken the glaze.
5. Serve: Finally, I season with salt and pepper before serving.

This dish is delicious and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

5. Asparagus Stuffed Chicken Breast

Asparagus stuffed chicken breast is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken with fresh asparagus. This recipe is fairly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

To prepare, I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). I take two boneless chicken breasts and create a pocket in each. Then, I wash and trim about 10 asparagus spears.

Next, I combine the asparagus with cream cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. I stuff this mixture into the pockets of the chicken breasts. I secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside.

I place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. After seasoning the outside with more salt and pepper, I bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink inside.

Once done, I let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This dish is tasty and pairs well with rice or a simple salad.

6. Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Asparagus

Creamy Tuscan Chicken with Asparagus is a flavorful dish inspired by Italian cuisine. It combines chicken with fresh asparagus, herbs, and a rich cream sauce. The simplicity of this recipe makes it approachable for all cooks.

I find this dish easy to make and it typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how I prepare it:

1. Start by seasoning 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. In the same pan, add 1 cup of chopped asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
5. Pour in ½ cup of heavy cream along with garlic and Italian seasoning, stirring well.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and simmer for another 5 minutes until cooked through.

This dish is a delightful way to enjoy tender chicken and fresh vegetables. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any night of the week. Enjoy!

7. Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Salad

Grilled Chicken and Asparagus Salad is a fresh and healthy dish. It combines grilled chicken with crisp asparagus, giving it a great texture. This salad is easy to make and perfect for a light meal.

To prepare this dish, I start by marinating the chicken. I use olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for flavor. Then, I grill the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

While the chicken is grilling, I prepare the asparagus. I trim the ends and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. I grill the asparagus for about 3 to 4 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Once everything is cooked, I slice the chicken and arrange it on a plate. I add the grilled asparagus and some mixed greens. For extra flavor, I may sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top.

This salad is not only tasty but also loaded with nutrients. Enjoy it as a meal or a side dish.

8. Chicken and Asparagus Stir Fry

Chicken and asparagus stir fry is a quick and tasty dish. It combines tender chicken with fresh asparagus, making it a healthy option. This stir fry is simple to prepare, even for beginners.

To make this dish, I start by gathering my ingredients. I need chicken breast, asparagus, garlic, soy sauce, and oil.

Here’s a quick guide on how to prepare it:

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Trim the asparagus and cut it into thirds.
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and asparagus, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Pour in soy sauce and stir for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

This dish cooks quickly, typically in 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal and can be served over rice or noodles. The combination of chicken and asparagus offers both flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying choice.

9. Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus

Garlic Herb Chicken and Asparagus is a simple and tasty dish. It combines juicy chicken and fresh asparagus with the rich flavor of garlic and herbs. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.

To prepare this dish, I start by gathering my ingredients: chicken breasts, fresh asparagus, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Here are the steps to make it:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim the asparagus and place it on a baking sheet.
3. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and asparagus.
5. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes.

I enjoy serving it with a side of rice or bread. This dish not only tastes great but also looks vibrant on the plate. It’s a healthy option that helps me maintain a balanced diet.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Chicken and Asparagus?

Chicken and asparagus are both nutritious foods that offer valuable health benefits. Each has unique properties that contribute to a balanced diet. I will discuss their protein content and the vitamins and minerals they provide.

How Does the Combination of Chicken and Asparagus Provide High Protein Content?

Chicken is an excellent source of protein. A three-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast contains about 26 grams of protein. This high protein level supports muscle growth, weight loss, and overall health.

Protein is essential for repairing tissues and making enzymes and hormones. It helps keep you full, making it a great option for weight management. Choosing lean cuts of chicken, like breast or tenderloin, can further enhance these benefits while keeping saturated fat low.

Asparagus also contains some protein. A cup of cooked asparagus has about 4 grams of protein. While it’s not as protein-dense as chicken, it can still contribute to your daily intake.

What Vitamins and Minerals Are Found in Chicken and Asparagus?

Asparagus is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It is rich in vitamin K, which plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health. A cup of cooked asparagus provides about 57% of the daily value for this important nutrient.

Additionally, asparagus is high in folate, essential for cellular function and tissue growth. It supports heart health and reduces the risk of certain diseases.

On the other hand, chicken provides important minerals like selenium and phosphorus. Selenium is crucial for metabolism and thyroid function. Phosphorus plays a role in forming bones and teeth.

Together, chicken and asparagus provide a balanced mix of protein, vitamins, and minerals that support a healthy lifestyle.

What Are the Tips for Selecting and Preparing Chicken?

When preparing chicken, choosing the right cut and marinating it properly can greatly enhance the flavor and texture. Here are some detailed tips on how to make the best choices for your dish.

How Do You Choose the Right Cut of Chicken?

Selecting the right cut of chicken is essential for the dish you want to create. There are several options, including:

• Breasts: Lean and versatile, great for grilling or baking.
• Thighs: Juicier and richer in flavor, perfect for braising or slow cooking.
• Wings: Ideal for appetizers, often marinated and grilled or fried.

I always look for chicken that has a pinkish hue and no signs of bruising. Also, consider whether you want bone-in or boneless. Bone-in cuts add flavor during cooking, while boneless cuts cook faster. Don’t forget to check the sell-by date to ensure freshness.

What Are Proper Marination Techniques for Chicken?

Marinating chicken not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. My go-to marinade consists of three basic components:

1. Acid: Ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar break down tough fibers.
2. Oil: Helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
3. Seasonings: Salt, herbs, and spices enhance the overall flavor.

I usually marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavors, 2 to 12 hours is better. Always cover the chicken and refrigerate it while marinating. Avoid reusing marinade unless it’s cooked, as it can harbor bacteria.

Using these tips can make a significant difference in the taste and enjoyment of your dish.

What Are the Cooking Techniques for Asparagus?

When preparing asparagus, the cooking method can dramatically affect its flavor and texture. I often use blanching and roasting, both of which highlight the vegetable’s natural taste while bringing out a delightful crispness.

How Do You Blanch Asparagus Correctly?

Blanching is a quick cooking technique that keeps asparagus bright green and tender-crisp. To blanch, I start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, I add the asparagus and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. This short cooking time helps preserve the vegetables’ color and nutrients.

After blanching, I immediately transfer the asparagus to an ice bath. This halts the cooking process and locks in its vibrant color and crispness. Once cooled, I drain the asparagus and pat it dry. This technique works well for salads, stir-fries, or as a side dish.

What Are the Best Methods for Roasting Asparagus?

Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor. To roast, I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, I wash the asparagus and snap off the woody ends.

Next, I drizzle the asparagus with olive oil and sprinkle it with salt and pepper. I spread the spears in a single layer on a baking sheet. Then, I roast them for 15-20 minutes, tossing halfway through for even cooking. Roasted asparagus can be served as a side dish or tossed into pasta for added flavor.