Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting taste of pasta, the savory goodness of chicken, and the freshness of broccoli. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up this creamy pasta dish! It’s simple and quick to prepare, especially with the convenience of a rotisserie chicken. It’s a complete meal that combines protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the creamy sauce made with fresh cheeses and aromatic seasonings is bound to win over even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having friends over, this dish is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Making creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a straightforward process that results in a delicious and filling meal. Follow the step-by-step directions below to create this delightful dish 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)
Directions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets directly into the pasta water.
- Drain: Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheeses: Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until the mixture is smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
- Adjust Consistency: Slowly add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Choose the Right Chicken: Using a rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds incredible flavor. Feel free to use leftovers from a homemade roasted chicken if you have some!
- Avoid Grainy Sauce: Removing the skillet from heat before adding cheese is crucial. This prevents the cheese from becoming grainy, allowing for a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Adjust the Creaminess: The pasta water is your friend! Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you find the perfect consistency for your sauce.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to customize the herb blend! Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add an exceptional freshness, while dried herbs are a great substitute for convenience.
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Cooking the pasta al dente means it will absorb some of the sauce while resting and will hold its texture in the dish.
- Add More Veggies: Don’t hesitate to sneak in more vegetables! Bell peppers, spinach, or peas can all work wonderfully in this recipe.
Flavor Variations for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Add a Burst of Lemon: For a zesty twist, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Spicy Kick: If you like to turn up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Creamy Pesto Flavor: Stir in a few tablespoons of store-bought or homemade pesto for an herbal flavor boost.
- Nutty Addition: Toast some pine nuts or chopped walnuts and sprinkle them on top before serving for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This creamy pasta dish can stand alone as a hearty meal, but you might consider serving it with:
- Garlic Bread: A classic accompaniment, garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- Fresh Side Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want to elevate the meal, serve with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for added colors and flavors.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezer: If you want to make this dish ahead of time, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Freeze in portioned airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop, adding a bit of liquid if necessary.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|———-|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 62 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
FAQ About Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne pasta is great for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can use any type of pasta that you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, this creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is very kid-friendly! The creamy cheese sauce and chicken are usually a hit with children. You can adjust the seasonings to suit their tastes, and you can even omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce has turned out thicker than you like, simply add more reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the starchy water will help keep the sauce creamy!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! To make a vegetarian version, skip the rotisserie chicken and use mushrooms or another plant protein like chickpeas. You can also enhance the flavor by adding more vegetables, such as bell peppers, and an extra splash of vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I make this recipe ahead of time?
To prepare this dish ahead of time, cook the pasta and sauce but keep them separate until you are ready to serve. Store both in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, combine them in a skillet, add the shredded chicken, and heat through, adding some pasta water if necessary.
Final Thoughts
Creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a fantastic recipe that ticks all the boxes for a satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and well-loved by both adults and kids alike. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to serve at a gathering, this creamy pasta will surely become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients and get started on this delicious pasta dish today!
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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that combines pasta, rotisserie chicken, and broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
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 boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets.
- Before draining, reserve 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. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Fold in the shredded chicken last.
- Slowly add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the desired creamy consistency is achieved. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.
Notes
Adjust seasonings to taste and feel free to add more vegetables for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian