There’s Nothing Quite Like Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Weeknight dinners can be a hectic affair, and that’s where Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta shines. It’s creamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, making it the perfect solution for busy families looking for a delicious meal. Imagine tender penne pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, complemented by succulent rotisserie chicken and vibrant broccoli. Not only is this dish easy to whip up, but it’s also customizable, budget-friendly, and loved by both kids and adults alike. When I first made this recipe, I found it quickly became a family favorite, proving that great taste doesn’t have to be complicated.

Reasons to Try This Delightful Dish

So, what makes Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta so special? For starters, it’s a one-pot wonder that marries convenience with outstanding flavor. You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, which is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, using a store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and effort without sacrificing quality.

Not to mention, this dish is naturally loaded with nutrients from the broccoli, and the creamy sauce is absolutely irresistible. It’s comfort food that’s kid-approved and will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfectly versatile, it can easily be transformed into a meal prep staple for lunch or dinner!

"This pasta dish is a game changer! It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and my kids love it. I can’t believe how easy it is to draw family members around the table for this!" – Happy Home Cook

Preparing Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

This rich and creamy dish comes together in just a few simple steps, making it straightforward enough for even novice cooks. Here’s how it works: you’ll start by cooking the pasta and broccoli together, then whip up a luscious cream sauce in the skillet. Finally, you’ll combine everything with shredded rotisserie chicken and finish with cheese for that divine creamy texture. Let’s dive into the detail!

Gather These Items

Here’s a list of what you’ll need for this hearty dish:

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 substitute fresh broccoli with frozen if that’s what you have on hand. You can also use other pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Cook Broccoli: During the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss the broccoli florets into the boiling pasta water.
Reserve Water: Before draining, carefully save 1 cup of starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, and then add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until it gently simmers, 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles at the edges, but do not let it boil.
Incorporate Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat to prevent graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Mix Pasta and Chicken: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss gently with tongs. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Adjust Consistency: Slowly add the reserved pasta water, a couple of tablespoons at a time, until you achieve a creamy, glossy finish. For that restaurant-quality touch, stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy This Pasta Dish

Serving Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is just as fun as making it! A simple yet elegant presentation can elevate the entire dish. Serve it in a large bowl or individual plates, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Pair it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the creamy sauce. A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, also complements the flavors beautifully.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be cautious to reheat thoroughly for food safety.

Extra Advice

Cooking Tips: Monitor the pasta closely to avoid overcooking, as it will continue to soften when tossed with the cream sauce.
Sauce Consistency: If your sauce thickens too much, don’t hesitate to add a bit more pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Using freshly grated cheese versus pre-shredded will yield a creamier texture since the latter often contains anti-caking agents.

Creative Twists

If you’re in the mood to mix things up, consider adding some spice with diced jalapeños or a pinch of pepper jack cheese. For a touch of sweetness, roasted cherry tomatoes or caramelized onions can enhance the flavor profile beautifully. You might even switch the rotisserie chicken for shredded turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta typically takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick dinner option.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even whole grain variations.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just ensure it cools before packing into airtight containers, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is sure to impress! It’s delicious, easy to make, and brings comfort to the dinner table, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A quick and delicious one-pot pasta dish featuring creamy cheese sauce, rotisserie chicken, and vibrant broccoli, perfect for busy families.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
During the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss the broccoli florets into the boiling pasta water.
Before draining, carefully save 1 cup of starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, and then add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until it gently simmers, about 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles at the edges, but do not let it boil.
Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely melted and smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss gently with tongs. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Slowly add the reserved pasta water, a couple of tablespoons at a time, until you achieve a creamy, glossy finish.
For a restaurant-quality touch, stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.

Notes

Monitor the pasta closely to avoid overcooking. Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier texture. Adjust sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water as needed.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 500
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: pasta, creamy chicken, broccoli, quick dinner, one-pot meal