If you’re searching for a dinner that’s light, fresh, and bursting with spring flavors, this Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta will steal your heart (and your taste buds!). It’s the kind of recipe you crave on bright evenings when you want something hearty but not heavy — tender grilled chicken, vibrant green asparagus, and a lemony Parmesan kiss, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re meal prepping or sitting down with friends and family, this Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta promises a delightful combo of textures, colors, and tastes in every forkful.

Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this dish is a star in its own right, and together they make magic. These simple components work in harmony to create a Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta that is as delicious as it is beautiful. Here’s why each one matters:

Penne Pasta: The tubular shape perfectly clings to the sauce and holds the chicken and asparagus for the perfect bite every time.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy, and ready to soak up that smoky grill flavor — you can even swap for thighs if you like extra richness.
Asparagus: Tender, green spears bring a crisp bite and vibrant color, making the whole dish feel fresh and lively.
Olive Oil: Adds lusciousness, helps with grilling and sautéing, and binds all the flavors together.
Garlic: Just a bit, sautéed until fragrant, creates an irresistible aromatic base.
Parmesan Cheese: Salty, nutty, and ever-so-creamy, Parmesan turns the pasta into a crave-worthy comfort.
Fresh Basil: A finishing touch that adds fragrant, peppery notes — plus a pop of color.
Lemon (Juice and Zest): The secret to that bright zing — the zest for perfume and the juice for tang!
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer and making flavors pop.

How to Make Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta

Step 1: Fire Up and Season

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high, letting it get nice and hot so you get those beautiful grill marks on the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry, sprinkle them with salt and black pepper, and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil. This simple prep ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that sings in every bite of your Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side. You’re aiming for golden sear lines and an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Resting the grilled chicken for a few minutes before slicing lets the juices redistribute — keeping every slice moist and delicious.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta & Asparagus

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. In the last three minutes of the pasta’s cooking time, toss in the asparagus pieces. This timing leaves the asparagus bright green and just-tender, giving that perfect crunch that makes Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta so satisfying. Drain both together and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Garlic

Over medium heat in a large skillet, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute, until it’s aromatic and golden — but don’t let it burn! This quick step infuses the oil and sets the savory stage for the rest of your ingredients.

Step 5: Toss and Combine

Into the garlicky skillet, add the cooked pasta and asparagus. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and sliced grilled chicken. Toss everything together so the flavors and textures mingle, and take a moment to adjust the seasoning with extra salt or black pepper if you like.

Step 6: Add Bright Finishing Touches

Right before serving, sprinkle lots of fresh chopped basil over the Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta. That vibrant herb brings all the flavors together, making every bite taste as fresh as springtime itself. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta

Garnishes

This dish absolutely shines with a generous snowfall of extra Parmesan and a few more torn basil leaves on top. For a dash of color and zest, add a sprinkle of lemon zest or a few chili flakes if you like a little heat. Garnishing is the final touch that turns your Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta from tasty to truly special.

Side Dishes

Pair your pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty Italian bread to soak up every last bit of the lemony cheese sauce. For a heartier table, serve alongside roasted veggies or a bowl of your favorite soup. This keeps the meal balanced and bright without overshadowing the main act.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your dinner guests, try serving Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta in shallow pasta bowls, topped with curls of extra Parmesan and spirals of grilled lemon. Or, for a fun twist at lunch, cool it slightly and serve as a room-temperature pasta salad at your next picnic or potluck. It travels and keeps beautifully!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta keeps perfectly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The lemon and Parmesan keep the flavor lively, even after chilling. For best results, store the basil separately and add it just before reheating or serving.

Freezing

While pasta and grilled chicken freeze reasonably well, asparagus can get a bit softer after thawing. If you do freeze it, pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Save the basil garnish for just before serving, since fresh herbs don’t freeze well.

Reheating

To bring leftover Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta back to life, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals. Top with fresh basil and more Parmesan before serving for a fresh-from-the-pan flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients for Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap with delicious results.

What if I don’t have access to a grill?

No worries! You can use a grill pan or even sear the chicken in a hot skillet on your stovetop. The goal is to get a bit of char and lots of juicy flavor, whatever method you use.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes! Grilled shrimp, salmon, or even tofu work beautifully here. The important thing is to keep those light, fresh flavors that make Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta so vibrant and satisfying.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Letting the chicken rest after grilling is key! Also, using a quick marinade or adding a little extra olive oil can help keep the meat juicy. Thin chicken breasts or pounding them to even thickness also ensures more even cooking.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. While asparagus is classic, green beans, broccoli, or even cherry tomatoes can be delicious additions to Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta. Get creative and use what’s in season or in your fridge!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or simply in search of a fresh new dinner idea, this Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta is bound to become a weeknight hit. It’s easy, flavorful, and makes any meal feel just a little more special. Treat yourself and your loved ones — you’ll be amazed by how fast it disappears!

Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Grilled Chicken Asparagus Pasta is a delicious and wholesome dish that combines tender grilled chicken, vibrant asparagus, and zesty lemon flavors, all tossed with pasta and Parmesan cheese. It’s a perfect meal for a quick and flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 ounces penne pasta

Chicken:

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Asparagus:

1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

Others:

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
juice and zest of 1 lemon
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side.
Cook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente. Add asparagus in the last 3 minutes. Drain.
Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, sauté garlic in remaining oil. Add pasta, asparagus, lemon juice, zest, Parmesan, and chicken. Toss to combine.
Serve: Garnish with basil before serving.