Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Introduction

Looking for a comforting meal that comes together in no time? Look no further! Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish filled with tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or whenever you’re craving something satisfying.

Why make this recipe

This recipe is a fantastic way to use a store-bought rotisserie chicken, saving you time in the kitchen. The creamy sauce is rich and flavorful, complemented by the freshness of broccoli. Plus, it’s a dish that the entire family will love. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this pasta dish checks all the boxes for a quick and tasty meal.

How to prepare Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Making this dish is simple and straightforward. Just follow the steps below, and you’ll have a delightful meal on the table in no time!

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)

Steps:

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add broccoli florets directly to the pasta water.
Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges, not a rolling boil.
Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Add reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until you reach a creamy, glossy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.

How to serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Serve this dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Tips to make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta perfectly

Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente since it will cook a little more in the sauce.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream.
Add in some other veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition.
Switch up the cheese with cheddar or a blend of your favorites.

FAQ

Q: Can I use uncooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes, you can. Just cook and shred the chicken before adding it to the sauce.

Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pasta, but the texture may change when thawed. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this dish without gluten?
A: Absolutely! Just use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without gluten.

Enjoy making Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta—a comforting meal that will surely satisfy everyone at your table!

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta