Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together tender penne pasta, juicy shredded chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a luscious sauce. Whether you’re in search of a weeknight dinner solution or a satisfying meal for a gathering, this recipe not only delivers on flavor but also on convenience. Using a rotisserie chicken means less prep time, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal that feels homemade without the hassle. What’s more, the combination of creamy sauce and fresh veggies makes it a wholesome option that everyone at the table will love.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to try this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta that make it a regular in your weekly meal rotation. It’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. You get the benefit of protein from the shredded chicken, healthy veggies, and satisfying carbs, all wrapped up in a creamy, cheesy sauce that is sure to please picky eaters and gourmet palates alike.
"This dish has become our family favorite! It’s creamy and satisfying, plus I love that it uses rotisserie chicken. It saves me so much time!" – A Happy Home Cook
How this recipe comes together
The cooking process for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is straightforward and easy to follow. You’ll start by cooking the pasta and broccoli together to save time on dishes. Simultaneously, you’ll be creating a rich sauce with onions, garlic, cream, and cheese that melds beautifully with the pasta. Finally, folding in the rotisserie chicken at the end ensures every bite is flavorful. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a cohesive and comforting meal that everyone will rave about.
What you’ll need
Gather these items
To make this creamy delight, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, approximately 4 cups)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Feel free to substitute frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available, or switch up the cheeses for your favorites!
Directions to follow
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, gently tossing to coat. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water if needed, and stir in a cold knob of butter before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving suggestions
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a meal on its own, but you can elevate the dining experience with a few simple additions. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad topped with a light vinaigrette. For a beautiful presentation, serve your pasta in bowls garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s also wonderful topped with a few crushed red pepper flakes to add a hint of heat.
Storage and reheating tips
How to store
To keep your Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3-4 days for the best taste and safety. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When reheating, be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it up gently on the stove, adding a splash of additional cream or broth to restore its creamy texture.
Helpful cooking tips
Pro chef tips
To make this recipe even more enjoyable, consider these handy tips:
- If you like a little crunch, roast your broccoli instead of boiling it. This will add a delicious toasted flavor.
- For a deeper flavor, sauté the garlic in the olive oil before adding the onions.
- If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can substitute lighter versions of cream and cheese without sacrificing too much flavor.
Creative twists
Recipe variations
Get creative with your Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta by trying different ingredients or flavor profiles. You could add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tanginess, or toss in some cooked spinach or kale for an extra health kick. Swap out the penne pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options, or even experiment with a different cheese blend like goat cheese or feta for a Mediterranean twist!
Common questions
Your questions answered
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This creamy pasta can be on your table in about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Any cooked chicken will work, but rotisserie chicken adds great flavor with minimal effort.
Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
Certainly! Opt for low-fat cream and reduced-fat cheese, and add more vegetables for a nutritious boost.
Feel free to adapt and improvise with this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe, making it your own while enjoying the comforting flavors it offers! Happy cooking!
PrintCreamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
A comforting dish with tender penne pasta, juicy shredded chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a luscious cream sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, approximately 4 cups)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup whole milk mozzarella cheese (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. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce, gently tossing to coat. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water if needed, and stir in a cold knob of butter before serving.
Notes
Feel free to substitute frozen broccoli if fresh isn’t available, or switch up the cheeses for your favorites.