Mediterranean Creamy Herb Chicken with Broccoli, Grilled Potatoes, and Pasta
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is a complete, flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a creamy herb sauce with garlic, Parmesan, and aromatic Mediterranean seasonings. It’s served alongside crisp broccoli, perfectly grilled potatoes, and your choice of pasta, creating a satisfying combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs. Rich in flavor but simple to prepare, this meal is ideal for weeknight dinners, family meals, or entertaining guests.
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 30–35 minutes
Total: 50–55 minutes
Ingredients
Chicken & Creamy Herb Sauce
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Pasta
8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
Salt for pasta water
Vegetables & Grilled Potatoes
2 cups broccoli florets
1–2 cups cherry tomatoes
2–3 medium potatoes, cubed
1 small onion, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss cubed potatoes and sliced onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and tender.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Chicken
While potatoes roast and pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano or basil. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Herb Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, oregano, and basil. Cook 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
Steam or Sauté Broccoli & Tomatoes
Quickly steam or sauté broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Add cherry tomatoes in the last minute for a pop of sweetness. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Plate
Place a portion of pasta on each plate. Add grilled potatoes, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Top with creamy herb chicken and drizzle remaining sauce over the vegetables and pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips
Even Chicken: Pound chicken to even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.
Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat before adding cream to prevent curdling.
Crisp Potatoes: Toss potatoes in a little cornstarch before roasting for extra crispiness.
Vegetables: Cook broccoli just until tender-crisp to retain color and nutrients.
Meal Prep: Roast potatoes and cook pasta ahead; reheat chicken and sauce before serving.
Pasta Choice: Fettuccine works best for creamy sauces, but penne or rigatoni also work.
Variations
Protein Swap: Use chicken thighs, turkey breast, or salmon fillets.
Veggie Swap: Add zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in mozzarella or pecorino cheese to the sauce for extra richness.
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the sauce.
Low-Carb Version: Serve chicken and vegetables without pasta or use zucchini noodles.
Herb Variations: Fresh basil, thyme, or dill can be added for extra Mediterranean flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but thaw or steam them first to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Roast potatoes and cook pasta ahead; assemble with freshly cooked chicken and sauce for best results.
How do I know when chicken is done?
Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internal temperature and juices should run clear.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add a small amount of cornstarch to thicken if desired.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes. Adjust herbs and seasoning to taste. Skip red pepper or spicy additions if needed.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 38 g
Carbs: 55 g
Fat: 28 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sodium: 480 mg
Conclusion
Mediterranean Creamy Herb Chicken with Broccoli, Grilled Potatoes, and Pasta is a flavorful, balanced, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and comforting pasta. The creamy herb sauce elevates the chicken while complementing roasted potatoes and bright, fresh broccoli. This versatile dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. With tips, variations, and simple substitutions, it’s easy to customize for personal tastes, dietary preferences, or seasonal vegetables. Quick to prepare yet impressive in flavor and presentation, it’s a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner that brings richness, color, and wholesome ingredients to your table.