Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. This delicious meal combines tender pasta, succulent rotisserie chicken, and fresh or frozen broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal go-to option for families.
Why Make This Recipe
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a wonderful way to turn a simple rotisserie chicken into a mouthwatering dinner. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, while the broccoli adds a fresh touch and nutrition. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a satisfying dish ready in no time, allowing you to enjoy meal times without the stress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftovers, making it both economical and practical!
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Making Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is easier than you might think! Let’s break down this fantastic recipe step by step.
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following 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
Here’s how to create this scrumptious dish:
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Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets directly to the pasta water. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and then drain the pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
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Prepare the Sauce: In your largest skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
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Make it Creamy: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Watch for small bubbles around the edges, being careful not to let it reach a rolling boil.
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Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat before adding the cheeses. This will help prevent graininess. Whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella until completely smooth. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
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Combine Everything: Gently add the drained pasta and broccoli into the creamy sauce, tossing with tongs to coat everything evenly. Finally, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
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Adjust the Consistency: Add the reserved pasta water a couple of tablespoons at a time until you achieve a creamy, glossy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for that restaurant-quality finish.
Pro Tips for Success Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Pasta Choices: While penne is recommended, feel free to swap it with your favorite pasta shape, such as fusilli or rotini.
- Broccoli Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of broccoli, try using spinach or peas for a different green touch.
- Rotisserie Chicken: Keep it simple! Store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Feel free to add more or less depending on your preference.
- Add Seasonings: Personalize the dish by adding herbs like fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk for heavy cream, but note that the sauce may not be as rich.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, to discover new tastes!
Flavor Variations Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy addition.
- Leafy Greens: Mix in some kale or arugula for added nutrition and flavor.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Serve your Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a light garden salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top and a few fresh herbs will elevate the presentation. Wine enthusiasts might enjoy pairing this dish with a chilled Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir, which balances the creaminess perfectly.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Value |
|———————–|—————–|
| Calories | 650 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 68g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
FAQ About Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or baked chicken works perfectly. Make sure it’s shredded to blend well with the dish.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I’m looking for a lighter option?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, but the sauce may be less creamy. Alternatively, you can use cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the rotisserie chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might also want to increase the amount of broccoli or add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The creamy sauce and mild flavors are often appealing to children, making this dish a great choice for family dinners.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta and broccoli in advance. Combine everything just before serving for the best taste and texture.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines convenience with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With easy preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a creamy pasta dish that everyone will love!
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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy meal combining tender pasta, succulent rotisserie chicken, and fresh broccoli in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
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 penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pasta water. Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmering gently for 2-3 minutes without boiling.
- Remove skillet from heat and whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Add drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, tossing to coat. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water until creamy. Stir in a knob of cold butter just before serving.
Notes
Feel free to substitute penne with your favorite pasta or add extra veggies like spinach. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian