Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing garlic mingled with the buttery richness of cream, I knew magic was in the air. This creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate, ready to wrap you in comfort after a long day. With only a single pot and 35 minutes, you can create a high-protein, easy weeknight dinner that’s not only nourishing but also an absolute crowd-pleaser. Picture tender pasta and vibrant broccoli bathed in a velvety sauce that transforms leftover rotisserie chicken into a gourmet dish your family will adore. Curious how to whip up this simple yet indulgent recipe? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Pasta Dish a Game-Changer? Creaminess: The rich sauce, combining heavy cream and melted cheeses, offers a luxurious texture that feels decadent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. High Protein: With 28g of protein per serving, this dish transforms rotisserie chicken into a wholesome meal that satisfies hunger while keeping nutrition in check. One-Pot Wonder: No need for endless dishes; everything comes together in one pot, saving precious time on busy weeknights. Flavorful Veggies: Broccoli florets not only add color but also pack a nutrient punch, making it a great way to sneak veggies into your family’s dinner. Versatile: Want to switch things up? Use different pasta shapes or experiment with seasonal vegetables like spinach or peas for a fresh twist! This creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not just merely a meal; it’s a delightful experience that can easily replace takeout. For more delicious ideas like this, check out Healthy Chicken Pasta or indulge in a heartwarming Loaded Broccoli Casserole. Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Ingredients • Dive into this flavorful dish with a beautifully simple ingredient list! For the Pasta Penne Pasta – The perfect base for this dish; feel free to swap it with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option. Broccoli Florets – Adds color and nutrition; both fresh or frozen are great choices. For the Protein Rotisserie Chicken – Packed with flavor and protein; using a mix of white and dark meat enhances the deliciousness. For the Creamy Sauce Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing, but avocado oil makes a great alternative. Garlic (minced) – Brings aromatic depth; fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor. Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and richness; shallots can be a delightful substitute. Butter – Contributes to the creaminess; margarine or additional olive oil works well too. Heavy Cream – The star that provides a luscious texture; non-dairy cream or half-and-half can be used in its place. Chicken Broth (low-sodium) – Enhances the sauce flavor; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian version. For Flavor Parmesan Cheese – Imparts savory notes; freshly grated is the way to go for maximum flavor. Mozzarella Cheese – Adds creaminess and texture; other melting cheeses like cheddar can easily be swapped in. Italian Seasoning – Enhances the flavors beautifully; fresh herbs can be an exciting alternative. Garlic Powder – Boosts garlic flavor; use fresh garlic if that’s what you have. Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Provides a touch of heat; feel free to omit for a milder dish. This delectable creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta brings the taste of a restaurant dish right to your home in just one pot! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta, cooking it until al dente, which takes about 8–10 minutes. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, carefully add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water and then drain the pasta and broccoli together, setting them aside. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt, then add diced yellow onion. Sauté for approximately 4–5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, making sure not to brown it, as you want it fragrant yet tender. Step 3: Prepare Cream Sauce Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet, combining all the ingredients. Let the mixture simmer gently over low heat for 2–3 minutes, avoiding a boil. This step will allow flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring a rich and creamy texture for your Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta sauce. Step 4: Incorporate Cheeses Remove the skillet from heat and gradually whisk in ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if desired, stirring well to combine these flavors throughout the creamy sauce. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken Gently fold in the drained penne pasta and broccoli into the sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Next, incorporate about 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, mixing everything together thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired creaminess for your dish. Step 6: Finish with Butter Before serving, stir in a cold knob of butter into the creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta for an extra silky finish. This final touch not only enhances the flavor but also adds a luxurious sheen to your pasta. Serve hot, and relish in the delightful, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen! Expert Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Cook Pasta Al Dente: Undercook the pasta slightly to prevent mushiness when it’s mixed with the creamy sauce. Aim for al dente for the best texture in your Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. Use Reserved Water Wisely: Keep the reserved pasta water handy! Add it gradually to adjust the sauce’s consistency, ensuring it stays creamy without becoming watery. Melt Cheese Off Heat: Always remove your skillet from the heat before adding the cheeses. This prevents the cheese from becoming grainy and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce. Sauté Garlic Perfectly: Be cautious with garlic; sauté just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—to avoid bitterness that can spoil your creamy sauce. Experiment with Veggies: This dish is versatile! Try incorporating spinach or peas alongside broccoli for added nutrition and variety in your Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. How to Store and Freeze Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; flavors improve overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal. • Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or chicken broth to maintain the creamy texture and flavor of the Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. • Avoid Freezing: To prevent separation, avoid freezing the pasta if you’ve added heavy cream, as it may change the consistency upon reheating. What to Serve with Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Imagine gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing heartfelt stories while enjoying a comforting meal that delights the senses. Crisp Caesar Salad: The crunch of romaine and tangy dressing complements the creamy pasta beautifully, balancing textures and flavors. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce left on your plate, making every bite a treat. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medleys of seasonal veggies add both nutrition and a caramelized sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory pasta. Lemon Zest Drink: A refreshing beverage with a hint of citrus brightens the palate and cuts through the richness of the creamy dish. Mixed Greens Salad: Light, fresh greens with a vinaigrette create a delightful texture contrast, lending a refreshing taste alongside each creamy bite. Chardonnay: This oaky wine pairs well, enhancing the creamy elements and savoriness of the chicken and cheese flavors in your pasta. Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Variations Feel free to elevate your dish by exploring these customizations that cater to your taste buds! Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out penne for gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners. The flavor remains delightful! Mix up the Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. They’ll add a delightful crunch to your pasta! Cheesy Delight: Use a blend of cheeses such as gouda or gruyère for a unique flavor twist that will tantalize your taste buds. The gooey, melty texture is truly irresistible. Low-Fat Version: Opt for low-fat or non-dairy cream to reduce calories while still enjoying that creamy texture. Your waistline will thank you! Spice it Up: Craving heat? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick that brings excitement to every bite! Pre-Cooked Chicken: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or even leftover chicken from a meal earlier in the week. It makes this one-pot meal a true time-saver. Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate your dish with their aromatic qualities. Toss them in at the end for a burst of freshness. Baked Edition: Turn this recipe into a comforting baked casserole by layering with extra cheese on top and baking until bubbly. This makes for a delightful twist on the original! For more tasty ideas, explore this delicious Mediterranean Chicken Pasta or a refreshing Hawaiian Chicken Salad. Enjoy your culinary adventure! Make Ahead Options These creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta meals are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prep the pasta and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance, cooking them al dente and tossing them in olive oil to prevent sticking. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it retains its delicious flavor. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Then, combine the prepped pasta, broccoli, and shredded rotisserie chicken, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s just as delightful and satisfying as if it were freshly made! Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs What type of pasta is best for this dish? Absolutely! Penne pasta is the star of this recipe, providing a sturdy base and excellent sauce adherence. However, feel free to switch it up with fusilli or rigatoni for a delightful twist. If you’re gluten-sensitive, gluten-free pasta works wonderfully too! How should I store leftover Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep the flavors at their best, I often find that letting it sit overnight in the fridge enhances the taste, making for a delicious next-day meal! Can I freeze this pasta dish? Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the pasta to cool completely before spooning it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that creamy texture! What should I do if my sauce is too thick? No worries there! If your sauce seems a bit thick, simply add some reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency. This starchy water works magic to smooth things out without sacrificing flavor! Can I use different vegetables besides broccoli? The more the merrier! You can absolutely swap out the broccoli for other tasty veggies. Spinach or peas make excellent substitutes, adding even more nutrition and variety to your Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. Enjoy customizing it to your family’s taste! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Great question! This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs. For a vegetarian option, replace the rotisserie chicken with additional vegetables and use vegetable broth. If you’re concerned about allergies, be sure to check ingredient labels on cheese and broth for potential allergens. Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta for Easy Weeknight Dinners Indulge in this creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, a high-protein, one-pot dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 ounces Penne Pasta2 cups Broccoli Florets fresh or frozenFor the Protein2 cups Rotisserie Chicken shredded, mix of white and dark meatFor the Creamy Sauce2 tablespoons Olive Oil or avocado oil1 tablespoon Garlic (minced) fresh preferred1 medium Yellow Onion diced2 tablespoons Butter or margarine1 cup Heavy Cream or non-dairy cream1 cup Chicken Broth (low-sodium) or vegetable brothFor Flavor½ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated1 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic Powder½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes optional Equipment large potLarge Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook Pasta and Broccoli: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, combine olive oil and butter. Add diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent, then stir in minced garlic for 30 seconds.Prepare Cream Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, then let simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes.Incorporate Cheeses: Remove from heat and whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.Combine Pasta and Chicken: Gently fold in the pasta, broccoli, and shredded chicken. Adjust sauce thickness with reserved pasta water.Finish with Butter: Stir in a cold knob of butter before serving for a silky finish. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
