Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a dish you’ll find yourself reaching for time and time again. This comforting, hearty meal combines tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and flavorful rotisserie chicken all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s not just delicious; it’s also an incredibly convenient way to use rotisserie chicken, making dinner prep a breeze.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something wholesome and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Not only does it come together quickly, but it also packs a nutritional punch with lots of veggies and lean protein. The creamy sauce is a hit with both kids and adults, ensuring everyone will leave the table happy. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken, saving you time and reducing waste. You’ll end up with a meal that feels indulgent but is still family-friendly and easy on the wallet.
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
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- 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
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Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente. For an added nutritional boost, add the broccoli florets directly into the pasta water for the last 3 minutes of cooking time.
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Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
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In your largest skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges of the skillet, but avoid a rolling boil.
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Remove the skillet from the heat completely before adding the cheeses. This step prevents graininess in your sauce. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until they are completely smooth.
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Season the cheese mixture with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
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Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy cheese sauce. Use tongs to toss and coat everything evenly. Lastly, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
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To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, add the reserved pasta water a couple of tablespoons at a time until you reach the desired richness. For a restaurant-quality finish, stir in a small knob of cold butter just before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and real cheese rather than pre-grated versions to enhance the flavor and texture of your sauce.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will be mixed with the sauce to finish cooking, ensure it is al dente to avoid mushiness.
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Adjust Consistency: Keep your reserved pasta water handy, as the amount you need may vary based on the thickness of your sauce.
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Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to try different cheese combinations, such as sharp cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.
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Make it Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
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Add More Vegetables: You can toss in other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Flavor Variations for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
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Pesto Twist: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto into the sauce for an herby, fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream.
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Add Heat: If you like a bit more spice, try adding diced jalapeños or substituting the red pepper flakes with a dash of cayenne pepper.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added just before serving for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
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Mushroom Heaven: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy, umami boost in your creamy sauce.
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Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Fold in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy contrast that brightens the dish.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is hearty on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these serving suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a loaf of crusty baguette to soak up the delightful sauce.
- Side Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Wine Pairing: For adults, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc complements the creaminess of the dish nicely.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if it appears too thick.
If you want to freeze this dish, ensure it is tightly sealed in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it on the stove, adding a bit of liquid if necessary to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————-|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQ About Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is used in this recipe, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even gluten-free pasta.
What if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can easily use leftover grilled or baked chicken. You can also cook chicken breasts or thighs specifically for this dish, just ensure they are cooked thoroughly and shredded or diced before adding.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Many kids love creamy pasta dishes, and the combination of pasta, chicken, and broccoli makes it appealing as it provides both comfort and nutrition.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version of this recipe by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You may also want to add additional vegetables to maintain the dish’s heartiness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Additionally, use dairy-free cheeses to accommodate any milk sensitivities.
How can I make it lighter?
To lighten this dish, you can reduce the amount of cheeses used, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk, and incorporate more vegetables to increase the volume without adding extra calories.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that can bring your family together at the dinner table. Easy to prepare and filled with flavor, this dish quickly becomes a weeknight winner. Whether you keep it classic or add your unique spins, it’s sure to delight those you serve. Embrace the convenience of rotisserie chicken, the creaminess of a rich sauce, and the vibrant colors of broccoli as you create a family favorite that will surely have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Poultry
Description
A comforting and hearty meal combining tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and flavorful rotisserie chicken enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce.
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)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets for the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth.
- Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Add reserved pasta water a couple of tablespoons at a time until desired creamy consistency is reached.
- Stir in a small knob of cold butter just before serving.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for enhanced flavor and texture. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
