Name: Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb penne pasta; 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat); 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic (minced fine); 1 medium yellow onion (diced small); 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium); 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is an elegant yet easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This dish combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant broccoli all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. If you’re looking for a family-friendly recipe that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken significantly cuts down on prep time, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and parmesan, complements the hearty pasta and fresh broccoli, making it a well-rounded dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s adaptable, so you can easily modify it to fit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.

How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Making Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is straightforward and requires just a few simple steps. Below, you’ll find a complete guide that covers the ingredients and directions, along with some extra tips to ensure success.

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat)
4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced fine)
1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
2 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the water. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Prepare the Sauces: In the largest skillet you have, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make it Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Watch for small bubbles forming around the edges—this is not a rolling boil, so keep the heat moderate.
Add the Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding the cheeses; this helps prevent graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until the mixture is completely smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Combine Everything: Gently toss the drained pasta and broccoli in the creamy sauce using tongs to coat them evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Adjust the Consistency: Add the reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you achieve a creamy and glossy consistency. For a restaurant-quality finish, stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.

Pro Tips for Success with Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is essential for achieving the perfect creamy texture. Don’t skip this step!
Use Fresh Ingredients: While you can use frozen broccoli, fresh florets will provide a vibrant color and flavor that can elevate the dish.
Control the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream based on your personal preference. If you want a lighter dish, reduce the cream slightly and add more chicken broth.
Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan and mozzarella work wonderfully, experimenting with other cheeses like Gruyere or cheddar can add different flavor dimensions.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition and color.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

Flavor Variations of Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Mushroom and Spinach Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach for an earthy flavor.
Lemon Zest Brightness: A splash of lemon juice and some zest added at the end can brighten the dish beautifully.
Bacon Lovers: For a smoky flavor, add crispy bacon bits to the dish.
Herbed Twist: Substitute the Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley for a fresh twist.
Buffalo Chicken Style: Add buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy twist, turning this dish into a comfort food favorite.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a hearty, stand-alone dish. However, it pairs excellently with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple mixed green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some garlic bread for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional grated cheese on top just before serving can elevate the dish’s presentation.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To store, let any leftovers cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to omit the cheeses initially, as they may not freeze well. You can freeze the pasta and chicken mixture for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of chicken broth if it appears dry.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|———–|————|
| Calories | 620 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbs | 70g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 780mg |

FAQ About Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Can I use any type of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the creamy sauce, other shapes like fusilli or farfalle can also work well. Choose your favorite pasta for a personalized touch.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy and cheesy flavors along with chicken and pasta make this dish a hit among kids. If they are sensitive to spice, you can skip the red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! Simply leave out the chicken and add a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also include chickpeas for added protein.

What can I serve alongside this pasta?
This pasta is rich and filling, so light sides work well. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette, garlic bread, or a vegetable medley can complement the meal beautifully.

How do I know if I cooked the pasta correctly?
The pasta should be cooked al dente, meaning it should be firm when bitten, not too soft or mushy. Follow the package instructions and taste a piece a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. It’s flexible enough to accommodate various tastes and dietary needs while being quick enough to prepare for even the busiest of weeknights. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can create a heartwarming dish that your family will ask for again and again. Enjoy bringing this delightful recipe to your table!

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta