Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

If you’re looking for a fulfilling and comforting dinner option, try this delectable creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. This dish combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce—perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

Why Make This Recipe

This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly convenient. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken saves you time and effort, making it perfect for busy evenings. The addition of broccoli not only brings vibrant color but also boosts the nutritional value, giving you a dose of vitamins and minerals. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish is sure to please family members of all ages and can be customized to fit various tastes.

How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

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 low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets directly to the pasta water.

2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges, instead of a rolling boil.

5. Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding the cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

6. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.

7. 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.

Pro Tips for Success Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta and Broccoli: Be sure to cook the pasta until al dente and only add the broccoli in the last few minutes of cooking. This keeps everything tender yet maintains a bit of crunch, which adds texture to your dish.

2. Whisk in Cheese Off the Heat: To ensure your cheese sauce stays smooth and creamy, whisk the cheese in after removing the skillet from heat. This method prevents the cheese from clumping or becoming grainy.

3. Customize the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

4. Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings to your taste; add more Italian herbs or incorporate a splash of lemon juice for a fresh twist.

5. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, choose fresh garlic and onions for a more robust flavor profile. Freshly grated cheese is also recommended for better texture.

6. Garnish for Presentation: Consider topping the finished dish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Flavor Variations Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

1. Add Spinach or Kale: For an additional layer of nutrients and flavor, throw in some fresh spinach or kale along with the broccoli. They wilt beautifully and blend well with the dish.

2. Swap Out the Cheese: If you’re a fan of different cheese flavors, try substituting cheddar, goat cheese, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

3. Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a bit of tang and sweetness, toss in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes before serving. They add a scrumptious depth of flavor.

4. Season with Lemon Zest: Brighten up the dish with some freshly grated lemon zest for a refreshing and zesty compliment to the creamy sauce.

5. Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, be more generous with the red pepper flakes or incorporate sliced jalapeños into the mix.

Serving Suggestions Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate your dinner by serving it with a crisp green salad and a loaf of crusty bread for mopping up the creamy sauce. Garlic bread also pairs beautifully, providing a delightful crunch and additional flavor. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of garlic-roasted potatoes.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Storage: Allow any leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring moisture back into the pasta.

Freezing: If you’d like to freeze your creamy pasta dish, portion it into freezer-safe containers. The dish can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, but it will still be delicious!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

FAQ About Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne pasta works wonderfully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the specific type of pasta you choose.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the rotisserie chicken and substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth. You might also consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to give it more substance.

How can I reheat creamy pasta without it becoming dry?

When reheating creamy pasta, the key is to add moisture back into the dish. Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir gently and heat slowly to prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and broccoli, then combine with the prepared sauce and chicken. This can save you time when you’re looking to whip up a quick dinner.

What sides pair well with creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta?

This creamy pasta dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread. Consider what you and your guests enjoy for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta brings together wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it an ideal choice for any dinner table. Plus, its convenience and versatility mean you can easily adapt it to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Give it a try, and you might just add it to your regular meal rotation!

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Poultry

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Description

A comforting and fulfilling creamy pasta dish combining rotisserie chicken, broccoli, and a luxurious sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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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 low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water.
2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove the skillet from heat before adding the cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
7. 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.

Notes

To ensure a smooth cheese sauce, whisk in cheese off the heat and don’t overcook the pasta and broccoli.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian