Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines convenience and comfort. It uses a rotisserie chicken, so you save time on cooking the protein. The creamy sauce hugs the pasta and broccoli, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is quick to prepare, filling, and utterly delicious. You can enjoy it as a family dinner or impress friends at your next gathering.

How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 whole rotisserie chicken (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 (shredded)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. 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 in the broccoli florets. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
2. In your largest skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes, watching for small bubbles, but don’t let it reach a rolling boil.
4. Remove the skillet from heat before adding the cheeses. This step is key to avoiding graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy!
5. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Use tongs to gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Finally, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
6. Gradually mix in the reserved pasta water, two tablespoons at a time, until the sauce becomes creamy and glossy. For an extra touch of luxury, stir in a small knob of cold butter just before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To serve this dish, spoon generous portions onto plates or bowls. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to create a complete meal. This dish is delicious hot, but you can also savor it the next day!

How to Store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat the pasta on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Make sure to reserve the pasta water before draining; it’s essential for adjusting the sauce later.
• For added flavor, you can sauté other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms alongside the onion.
• If you prefer a healthier version, use whole grain pasta and low-fat dairy options.

Variations

You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking. Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist or swap in your favorite cheese. If you enjoy spicy dishes, consider adding more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
A: Yes, fresh broccoli works well! Just make sure to cut it into small florets for even cooking.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Simply omit the rotisserie chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more veggies to enhance the flavor.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze the pasta. However, the texture of the pasta may change after thawing and reheating.