Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, look no further than the creamy chicken and asparagus skillet. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and a creamy sauce, it’s a dish that will please everyone at the table.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Journey
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something warm and comforting. I had some chicken and asparagus in the fridge, and I thought, why not combine them for a hearty meal? As I cooked, the aroma filled my kitchen, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special. This creamy chicken and asparagus skillet has since become a family favorite, and I love sharing it with friends and family.
What Makes This Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and versatility. The combination of chicken and asparagus is a classic pairing, but it’s the creamy sauce that elevates it to another level. The use of gruyere cheese adds a nutty flavor, while the addition of Greek yogurt brings a touch of tanginess. Plus, it’s a one-skillet meal, which means less cleanup for you!
The Full Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup diced shallots
- 1 clove of garlic, grated or minced
- 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1 1/2 cups chopped asparagus
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup reduced-fat milk
- 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain reduced or full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté shallots, mushrooms, asparagus, and garlic with salt and pepper until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stir well, then pour in chicken broth. Mix until smooth, scraping any bits off the bottom. This adds flavor to your sauce!
- Add cream cheese and milk, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Keep the heat medium so it doesn’t boil too rapidly.
- Remove from heat, add chicken back in. Stir in Greek yogurt, thyme, and half of the gruyere cheese until creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary, tasting for salt and pepper.
- Top with the remaining gruyere cheese, cover, and let it sit for a few minutes to melt the cheese. This creates a delicious cheesy topping!
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet
This creamy chicken and asparagus skillet can be served with a variety of sides such as rice, quinoa, or even pasta for a heartier meal. For a twist, consider adding cooked pasta or rice directly into the skillet to make it a complete dish. You can also throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach if you’d like to add more color and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.
Is there a substitute for gruyere cheese?
Cheddar or mozzarella can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve. Just be mindful that the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so you might need to add a little chicken broth or milk when reheating.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Enjoy this comforting and creamy chicken and asparagus skillet!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 4
Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet Large skillet for cooking the dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup diced shallots
- 1 clove of garlic grated or minced
- 8 ounces sliced cremini mushrooms
- 1 1/2 cups chopped asparagus
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup reduced-fat milk
- 2 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
- 1/2 cup plain reduced or full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, and cook until done. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Sauté shallots, mushrooms, asparagus, and garlic with salt and pepper until tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stir, then pour in chicken broth. Mix until smooth. Add cream cheese and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Remove from heat, add chicken back in. Stir in Greek yogurt, thyme, and half of the gruyere cheese until creamy. Adjust seasoning.
- Top with remaining gruyere cheese, cover, and melt the cheese.
- Serve hot, garnished with thyme leaves.