Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

There’s something undeniably comforting about creamy pasta dishes, especially when they feature rotisserie chicken and broccoli. My experience making this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta has not only helped me whip up quick weeknight dinners but also turned into a family favorite. This recipe is a delightful harmony of flavors and textures, making it perfect for busy nights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of tender pasta, shredded chicken, and vibrant broccoli all enveloped in a luxurious cream sauce will leave everyone at your table satisfied.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why is this recipe a must-try? For starters, it’s a one-pot wonder that brings together convenience and comfort. The creamy sauce coats every bite, while the addition of broccoli gives it a nutritious boost. It’s a fantastic way to use rotisserie chicken—saving you time and effort. Whether you’re racing against the clock on a Monday night or want something hearty for a special occasion, this dish fits the bill perfectly.

“This creamy pasta has become a staple in our household! The flavors are incredible, and I love that it’s quick to make!”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is as simple as it is satisfying. You start by boiling the penne pasta and adding fresh or frozen broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking. While that’s happening, you’ll sauté onions and garlic, creating a fragrant base for your creamy sauce. Mixing in cream, chicken broth, and freshly grated cheeses will create an irresistible taste. You’ll combine it all with the pasta and chicken at the end, making for a deliciously cohesive meal.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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)

Feel free to swap out the cheeses based on your preference; for instance, you can use cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time.
2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
3. In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, watching for small bubbles at the edges, not a rolling boil.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to ensure everything is well coated. Lastly, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
7. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you achieve a creamy, glossy consistency. For a finishing touch, stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, presentation makes all the difference. Offer it straight from the skillet for a cozy family-style meal, or plate it individually with a sprinkle of extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for a polished look. Pairing this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread can elevate the dining experience. A light white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a refreshing accompaniment as well.

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Storage Tips

To keep your Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to save some for later, you can freeze individual portions. Just ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently warm on the stove, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore its creamy texture.

Expert Advice

• To prevent your cheese from becoming grainy, remember to remove the skillet from heat before adding it.
• If you want an extra kick of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the garlic and onions as they sauté.
• For a quicker prep, consider using pre-shredded rotisserie chicken.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor, or swap the broccoli for spinach or peas. If you want a touch of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a different type of cheese, like pepper jack.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can be substituted; just be aware it may alter the cooking time slightly.

How long does the dish take from start to finish?

The entire process typically takes around 30-40 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I prep the dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.

Embrace the comforting flavors of this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta and enjoy the smiles it brings to your table!

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting one-pot creamy pasta dish featuring rotisserie chicken and broccoli, making it a quick and delightful family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time.
2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
3. In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, watching for small bubbles at the edges.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently to ensure everything is well coated. Lastly, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
7. Gradually stir in reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you achieve a creamy, glossy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.

Notes

To prevent cheese from becoming grainy, remove skillet from heat before adding cheese.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, rotisserie chicken, broccoli, quick dinner, family meal