Rich, comforting, and full of vibrant flavor, this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta brings together tender chicken, roasted broccoli, and two kinds of cheese in a luscious garlic-herb sauce. A perfect dish for cozy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta dish offers everything you crave in a hearty dinner: golden seared chicken, al dente pasta, and oven-roasted broccoli folded into a velvety garlic cream sauce. The mix of mozzarella and Parmesan delivers cheesy richness, while herbs and a hint of red pepper provide depth and a subtle kick. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a one-bowl wonder.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to taste
2 cups broccoli florets
1 tbsp olive oil (for roasting broccoli)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup cream cheese, softened
¾ cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tbsp chopped parsley or fresh basil for garnish

directions

Roast the Broccoli:
Preheat oven to 425 °F. Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 15–20 minutes until crispy on the edges.
Cook the Pasta:
Boil rigatoni or penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season cubed chicken with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 6–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and cream cheese. Stir until smooth and combined.
Add the Cheese:
Mix in mozzarella and Parmesan. Add red pepper flakes if desired. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
Assemble the Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Add roasted broccoli and toss everything to coat in the garlic herb sauce.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil and serve hot. Optional: finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double the broccoli or add mushrooms and spinach.
Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey breast instead of chicken.
Extra Flavor: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the cream.
Lighter Option: Substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheeses.
Spice It Up: Increase red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of chili paste.

storage/reheating

Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Store separately from the garnish and reheat gently before serving.

Is cream cheese necessary?

It helps thicken the sauce and adds richness, but you can omit it or substitute with mascarpone.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before roasting to prevent excess moisture.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat moderate and stir consistently while adding the cheeses.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or ziti works well.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings and cheeses are gluten-free.

What herbs pair best with this dish?

Parsley and basil are ideal, but thyme or chives also complement the flavors well.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

How can I make it more lemony?

Add lemon zest at the end or stir in a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice into the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta with Roasted Broccoli & Mozzarella is a comforting, flavor-packed meal perfect for any night of the week. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and crisp broccoli, it’s a dish that delivers satisfaction in every bite. Whether for a family dinner or casual gathering, it’s sure to be a favorite.