With just a quick glance at my kitchen, I spotted that beautiful, golden rotisserie chicken waiting to be transformed. That’s when the idea hit me: why not whip up a creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta? This one-pot wonder is not only a comforting dish for busy weeknights but also offers over 28 grams of protein per serving, perfect for those who crave a hearty meal without all the fuss. In just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a delectable blend of tender pasta, vibrant broccoli, and rich, savory sauce that makes even the most hectic days feel special. Fast, filling, and full of flavor—what’s not to love? Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is This Recipe a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: In just 35 minutes, you have a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Simplify your cooking with this one-pot wonder!
High in Protein: Each serving boasts over 28 grams of protein, filling you up and keeping you satisfied. It’s a nutritious choice the whole family will love.
Creamy Comfort: The luxurious sauce wraps around the tender pasta and vibrant broccoli, creating a rich, comforting dish that’s reminiscent of savory restaurant meals.
Versatile Ingredients: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or mix in your favorite veggies for a personal twist. Looking for more exciting options? Check out the delicious Greek Chicken Tenders for another flavorful meal idea!
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Whip up this creamy masterpiece and watch smiles appear at the dinner table!
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – This is the base of the dish; gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier option.
• Broccoli Florets – Adds vibrant color and nutrients; both fresh or frozen work, but blanch for the best texture.
• Rotisserie Chicken – A convenient protein source; shred a mix of white and dark meat for added flavor depth.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing onions; avocado oil can be swapped for a unique taste.
• Yellow Onion (diced) – Provides essential base flavor; shallots offer a milder alternative.
• Garlic (minced) – Packs a flavor punch; adjust the amount based on your garlic preference.
• Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; use vegan margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Heavy Cream – Creates that luscious creamy texture; switch to coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
• Chicken Broth – Enhances the overall flavor; low-sodium options are great for controlling salt levels.
• Parmesan Cheese – Provides savory flavor while thickening the sauce; nutritional yeast serves as a dairy-free substitute.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Adds delightful creaminess; plant-based mozzarella is perfect for a vegan spin.
Seasonings
• Italian Seasoning – Elevates the dish with herbaceous notes; adjust according to taste.
• Garlic Powder – Additional flavor booster; less is more, so sprinkle carefully!
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; always adjust to your liking.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a little heat; increase for spicier pasta.
Embrace the delicious possibilities of Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta with this easy-to-follow ingredient list, and let your culinary creativity shine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Boil the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Just three minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. When done, drain the pasta and broccoli together, setting aside a cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter melts, add diced yellow onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they turn translucent. Then, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, letting the aroma fill the air and ensuring the garlic doesn’t brown.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Be cautious to keep it below a rolling boil to maintain the creamy texture for your rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheeses and Seasonings
Remove the skillet from heat, then whisk in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season the creamy sauce with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, a pinch of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything Together
Add the drained pasta and blanched broccoli to the creamy cheese sauce, followed by 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Gently toss everything until well combined, ensuring every piece of pasta and broccoli is coated in that rich, savory sauce.
Step 6: Adjust Consistency with Pasta Water
Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency—creamy and luxurious. Stir gently to integrate the pasta water into the dish, allowing it to cling beautifully to your creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta.
Step 7: Finish with a Touch of Butter
For an extra silky finish, stir in a small knob of cold butter just before serving. Mix well until the butter melts and adds a final touch of richness to your dish. Get ready to enjoy a delightful meal that brings everyone together around the table!
What to Serve with Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Elevate your meal with delightful side dishes that complement the rich flavors of this creamy pasta creation.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, it adds a satisfying crunch and aroma that enhances the whole dining experience.
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Caesar Salad: A refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta, the crisp romaine and tangy dressing balance richness with a burst of flavor.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a medley of textures and flavors, adding depth and a healthy twist to your meal.
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Cherry Tomato Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella drizzled with basil pesto offer a vibrant and fresh side that brightens each bite of the pasta.
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White Sangria: This refreshing drink pairs beautifully, providing a light, fruity flavor that cuts through the creaminess and adds a festive touch.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting these gives them a delightful crunch, making them a great textural contrast to the smooth pasta dish.
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Lemon Sorbet: End on a sweet note with a refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate while providing a bright citrus burst after a creamy meal.
Expert Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
• Avoid Graininess: Always remove the skillet from heat before adding cheese to maintain a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Pasta Water Magic: Gradually incorporate reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency; too much at once can make it too thin.
• Flavor Boost: Mix both white and dark meat from the rotisserie chicken to enhance flavor depth in your creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.
• Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Blanch broccoli for just 3 minutes to retain its vibrant color and satisfying crunch; overcooking can lead to mushiness.
• Spice It Up: Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference—more flakes for a kick, less for a milder flavor.
Variations & Substitutions for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Customize your dish with these fun and delicious twists to make it even more your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free options like brown rice or lentil pasta for a gluten-free delight.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or your favorite legumes to create a hearty vegetarian feast that’s still full of protein.
- Creamy Alternative: Swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce that still delivers a nice tang.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for a vibrant boost of color and nutrition—get creative with what you have on hand!
- Baked Casserole: Transform leftovers into a cozy baked casserole by layering the pasta in a baking dish, topping with mozzarella, and baking until bubbly.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some diced jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat that will awaken your taste buds.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the creamy sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish; add them just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Now, unleash your creativity and enjoy your own unique take on this comforting, creamy dish! If you love chicken dishes, don’t miss out on trying this Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken or this mouthwatering Paprika Roast Chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta preparations are perfect for those busy weeknights! You can chop the broccoli, dice the onion, and even shred the rotisserie chicken up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, prepare the creamy sauce (minus the cheese) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to save time. Just before serving, gently reheat the sauce, whisk in the cheeses, and combine everything with the cooked pasta and broccoli. This approach ensures a fresh, delicious meal while simplifying your dinner routine, making your weeknight cooking a breeze!
How to Store and Freeze Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days; the flavors of your creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta will deepen overnight, making each bite even more delicious.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to return the sauce to its original creamy consistency.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pasta out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure it stays safe and tasty for your next meal.
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best broccoli for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets without any dark spots or yellowing, which signal age. Fresh broccoli should feel firm and have tightly closed buds. If using frozen, look for broccolis that are bright green and come without any ice crystals, indicating freshness.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?
Very! Store your creamy pasta in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure it’s completely cooled down before sealing to avoid condensation. This will help preserve the flavors and creaminess for your next meal.
Can I freeze Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then portion it out. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore its creamy texture.
How do I prevent my sauce from becoming grainy?
To avoid graininess in your sauce, it’s crucial to remove the skillet from heat before adding cheese. Wait a few moments for the temperature to drop slightly, then whisk in the cheese until fully melted. This technique creates a smooth, luxurious sauce that will cling to your pasta beautifully.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Very! To make a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, and opt for plant-based mozzarella. You can also use vegan margarine to replace the butter, ensuring everyone can enjoy this creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta!
How long can I keep the pasta at room temperature?
It’s best to avoid leaving the cooked pasta out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. To ensure food safety and quality, it’s important to refrigerate any leftovers within this timeframe, especially because the creamy sauce can spoil if left too long.
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta in 35 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Just three minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them. When done, drain the pasta and broccoli together, setting aside a cup of pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter melts, add diced yellow onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they turn translucent. Then, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to come to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat, then whisk in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, a pinch of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta and blanched broccoli to the creamy cheese sauce, followed by 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Gently toss everything until well combined.
- Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- For an extra silky finish, stir in a small knob of cold butter just before serving.
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