Creamy One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons Italian herb seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup minced shallots
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into thirds
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a 1-gallon resealable plastic bag, combine flour, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Shake gently to mix well and set aside.
2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap on a cutting board. Pound to a uniform thickness of about 1/2 inch and blot dry with paper towels.
3. Add chicken to the flour mixture, seal the bag, and shake until evenly coated.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with olive oil. Once the butter stops sizzling and the pan is hot, add chicken. Brown each side for 4 to 5 minutes until golden. Remove chicken and keep warm.
5. Add remaining butter to the same skillet along with shallots and asparagus. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring often, until asparagus is tender and bright green.
6. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Pour in the cream, lemon juice, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Stir until the cheese melts, about 1 minute.
8. Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Simmer for about 3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is heated through.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Cooks Note: Pecorino Romano is naturally salty, and the pan drippings add flavor. Taste before adding extra salt or pepper.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 419
• Total Fat: 34g (43% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 19g (95% DV)
• Cholesterol: 113mg (38% DV)
• Sodium: 395mg (17% DV)
• Total Carbohydrates: 17g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 17g (34% DV)
• Vitamin C: 27mg (30% DV)
• Calcium: 150mg (12% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (13% DV)
• Potassium: 527mg (11% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary.

The Story Behind Creamy One-Pan Lemon Garlic Chicken and Asparagus

The origins of this creamy one-pan lemon garlic chicken and asparagus dish trace back to the evolution of modern American home cooking, where simplicity and flavor are equally valued. While chicken has long been a staple in Western kitchens, the combination with a lemon-garlic cream sauce gained popularity in the late 20th century as home cooks sought ways to recreate restaurant-quality meals with minimal effort. The one-pan approach reflects a contemporary trend of convenience cooking, reducing cleanup while preserving the depth of flavor that develops when ingredients are cooked together.

Regional Variations and Features

This dish is particularly popular in the United States, especially in regions where Italian-American cuisine has influenced home cooking. The use of Italian herbs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and garlic highlights the Mediterranean inspiration, while the cream and butter enrich the dish in a way that appeals to American palates. In coastal areas, chefs may add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or substitute the chicken with local seafood for a seasonal twist. In contrast, inland versions often feature heartier vegetables or roasted garlic to suit the colder climate.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While reminiscent of other creamy chicken dishes such as Chicken Alfredo or Chicken Piccata, this recipe distinguishes itself through its one-pan preparation, combining seared chicken, sauted asparagus, and a bright lemon-garlic cream sauce in a single skillet. Unlike Chicken Piccata, which emphasizes a tart caper-lemon sauce, this dish is richer and creamier, offering a balanced blend of tanginess and indulgence. The addition of asparagus also sets it apart, providing a crisp texture and fresh flavor that contrasts with the creamy sauce.

Common Serving Occasions

This versatile recipe is often served as a weeknight dinner due to its quick preparation time, but it is also elegant enough for dinner parties. It pairs beautifully with fettuccine, rice, or mashed potatoes to absorb the luscious cream sauce. In restaurants or home gatherings, it is frequently accompanied by a light salad and crusty bread, which complements the richness of the dish. It is ideal for occasions where a comforting yet visually appealing meal is desired.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of lemon and cream is a classic culinary technique used to balance richness with acidity, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and asparagus.
• Using a single pan not only minimizes cleanup but also allows the chicken to absorb the flavors from the sauted vegetables and pan drippings.
• The dish exemplifies how traditional Italian ingredients, such as Pecorino Romano and Italian herbs, have been adapted into modern American cooking.
• Despite its simplicity, the dish can be customized with seasonal vegetables, different cheeses, or alternative proteins, making it a flexible option for home chefs.
• Many cooks find that lightly pounding the chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tender results, a technique borrowed from classic European cooking methods.

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