There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pasta. This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a simple dish that’s packed with delicious flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and quick.
Everyone will love this tasty meal. It’s rich and creamy, with tender chicken and fresh broccoli. Plus, using a rotisserie chicken saves time and makes it so easy. You’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
Why You Will Love This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This recipe is a winner for many reasons. It’s easy to make and uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. The creamy sauce hugs the pasta, making every bite feel cozy and comforting. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it a great choice for busy families. No long cooking times here!
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Making this dish is straightforward and fuss-free. You’ll cook pasta and broccoli together and whip up a creamy sauce in the same skillet. Mixing it all together creates a lovely harmony of flavors, ensuring you enjoy every mouthful.
What You Need
Ingredients for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- 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)
Step-by-Step
- 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, add broccoli to the pasta water.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large 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.
- 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.
- Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce and toss gently to coat. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach a creamy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for a lovely finish.
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This dish is great on its own, but you can also serve it with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and some chopped parsley on top will add a nice touch. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends!
How to Store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions in separate containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, just warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce.
Recipe Tips
- Make sure to reserve that pasta water; it helps create a silky sauce.
- Don’t skip the butter at the end for extra creaminess.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda.
- If you’re in a hurry, use frozen broccoli florets; they work just as well.
- Taste before serving to adjust seasonings to your liking.
Variations & Swaps
- For a lighter option, use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles.
- Add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and then just reheat.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to store them in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat creamy pasta?
Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
You can use any cooked chicken, like grilled or baked, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is thick, just add more reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 4 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat)
- 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
Preparation
- 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, add broccoli to the pasta water.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large 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.
- 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.
- Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce and toss gently to coat. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
- Gradually add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you reach a creamy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for a lovely finish.
