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Homemade Lemon Herb Chicken & Asparagus Tagliatelle recipe photo

Lemon Herb Chicken & Asparagus Tagliatelle

This Lemon Herb Chicken & Asparagus Tagliatelle is a bright, fresh, and satisfying pasta dish bursting with zesty lemon, tender chicken, and crisp asparagus.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender, juicy protein
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil to sauté and infuse flavor
  • 2 lemons zested and juiced, the star of the dish, providing brightness
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano adds an herbal, slightly peppery flavor
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme for an earthy, aromatic note
  • salt and pepper to season perfectly
  • 8 ounces tagliatelle pasta silky ribbons that soak up the sauce
  • 1 bunch asparagus trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces, fresh, crunchy vegetable addition
  • 2 cloves garlic minced, for a subtle, savory punch
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese adds richness and umami
  • fresh parsley for garnish, brightens and freshens the final dish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Zester and juicer
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Tongs or pasta fork
  • Grater

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
  4. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the asparagus pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp and vibrant green.
  5. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet with the asparagus. Add the cooked tagliatelle, a splash of the reserved pasta water, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything gently to combine, letting the cheese melt slightly and the pasta absorb the lemony herb flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • Rest the chicken after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Do not overcook the asparagus; it should stay crisp and vibrant green.
  • Reserve some pasta water to help bind the sauce and keep pasta moist.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
  • For variations, try dairy-free cheese alternatives or gluten-free pasta.