Life gets busy, and finding a quick yet delicious meal can sometimes feel like a challenge. Enter Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta—your go-to comfort food that comes together in just about 30 minutes! This dish is perfect for those weeknight dinners when you’re juggling work, kids, and everything else life throws your way. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender rotisserie chicken, and vibrant spinach, it’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine a dish that encapsulates comfort, flavor, and convenience—all in one pot! Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta checks every box on your checklist. It’s budget-friendly, perfect for those leftover rotisserie chickens, and appeals to kids and adults alike. What’s more, this dish can easily transform a mundane weeknight into a delicious family affair or serve as an impressive entree for a casual dinner party.
"This pasta dish was a game-changer! Quick to prepare, and my kids couldn’t get enough of it. Definitely a new staple in our household!" – A satisfied home cook.
How to make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Creating this dish is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll be able to make pasta and a luscious sauce in no time.
Preparing Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Follow these steps for a perfect meal:
- Boil your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing it to simmer for about five minutes to thicken slightly.
- Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
- Finally, combine the cooked pasta with your creamy sauce and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper, then serve warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
What you’ll need
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works beautifully)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Feel free to switch out the spinach for another leafy green, like kale, if you prefer.
Directions to follow
Getting started is a breeze!
- Cook the pasta as directed on the package until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add garlic and sauté for about one minute until it releases its aroma.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to mix well. Let it simmer for around five minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the shredded chicken and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach is tender, which should take about two minutes.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce thoroughly, ensuring every strand is coated.
- Enhance with salt and pepper to your liking, and serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan.
Best ways to enjoy it
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, while garlic bread adds an extra touch of indulgence. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a more colorful plate. For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Helpful cooking tips
- When cooking the pasta, be sure not to overcook it, as it will continue to soften once mixed with the sauce.
- If you want to add a bit of brightness, consider stirring in a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- For a grain-free option, substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Creative twists
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:
- Try adding sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy flavor boost.
- For a bit of crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese instead of Parmesan for a unique twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I use other types of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken or even shredded turkey would work beautifully in this recipe.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, try using coconut cream in place of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring family together, savor rich flavors, and enjoy a dash of culinary creativity. Try it tonight and discover your new favorite go-to dish!
PrintCreamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
A quick and delicious creamy pasta dish made with tender rotisserie chicken and vibrant spinach, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing it to simmer for about five minutes to thicken slightly.
- Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and fresh spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
- Combine the cooked pasta with your creamy sauce and toss until well coated.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve warm, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and frozen for up to three months. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.