Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tender rotisserie chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce over pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe provides comfort and satisfaction in just 35 minutes. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, you’ll find yourself turning to this dish time and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful & Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a rich sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Versatile Ingredients: Utilizing store-bought rotisserie chicken means less cooking time while still delivering great flavor.
- High Protein Dish: Packed with protein from chicken and cheese, this meal is both filling and nutritious.
- Kid-Friendly Option: The creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
For making this creamy pasta dish, having the right tools will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Measuring cup
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon or tongs
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta and cooking broccoli simultaneously.
- Skillet: A wide surface allows for even cooking of ingredients and mixing the sauce.
- Measuring cup: Helps to accurately reserve pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.
Ingredients
This comforting rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta delivers creamy satisfaction in 35 minutes using store-bought rotisserie chicken and simple pantry staples.
Pasta & Chicken
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded (about 4 cups meat))
Vegetables
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced fine)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
Dairy & Fats
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 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)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add broccoli florets directly to the pasta water.
Step 2: Reserve Pasta Water
Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges; avoid a rolling boil.
Step 5: Add Cheese for Creaminess
Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Toss gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Step 7: Adjust Consistency
Add reserved pasta water two tablespoons at a time until you reach a creamy, glossy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for that restaurant-quality finish.
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Serving Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Chives: Finely chop chives and add them as a garnish to bring a mild onion flavor.
Pairing with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for an irresistible crunch.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top slices with mozzarella cheese and broil until bubbly for a cheesy twist.
Adding a Salad
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the creamy pasta perfectly with its tangy dressing.
- Mixed Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the richness of the pasta.
Serving in Individual Bowls
- Personal Portions: Serve the pasta in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties.
- Garnished Bowls: Add extra cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for customization at each place setting.
Topping with Extra Cheese
- Parmesan Shavings: Grate fresh Parmesan on top just before serving for an added depth of flavor.
- Feta Crumbles: For a different taste, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the dish.
How to Perfect Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
To achieve the best results with your Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure you get that creamy texture and delightful flavor every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh broccoli instead of frozen when possible to enhance texture and taste.
- Monitor Cheese Temperature: Allow your skillet to cool slightly before adding cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more seasoning based on your preference for spice or saltiness.
- Finish with Butter: Stir in cold butter right before serving for an extra touch of creaminess and shine.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish right away while it’s hot and creamy for the best experience.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Enhancing your meal with side dishes can create a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some excellent options that pair beautifully with your Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic complement the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Caprese Salad: Classic Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds freshness and acidity.
- Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed or roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that pairs well with creamy dishes.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots provide a delightful contrast to the savory pasta flavors, enhancing overall taste.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs offer an appetizing bite-sized option.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Light and healthy, zoodles serve as a low-carb alternative while adding freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be a joy, but mistakes can happen! Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of when making creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta.
- Not reserving pasta water – Failing to save some of the starchy pasta water can result in a sauce that lacks creaminess. Always set aside a cup before draining.
- Ignoring the heat – Cooking the cheese over high heat can lead to grainy sauce. Remove the skillet from heat before adding cheese for a smooth texture.
- Overcooking broccoli – Adding broccoli too early can make it mushy. Add it to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking for perfect tenderness.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments – Tasting your sauce is crucial. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor; don’t skip this step!
- Using pre-shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent melting smoothly. Opt for freshly grated cheese for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals (about 1 minute), stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop – Warm on low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water as needed to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
You can use cooked chicken breast or thighs instead. Just ensure it’s shredded for even distribution throughout the dish.
How do I make creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta gluten-free?
Substitute penne pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure they cook adequately!
Can I prepare creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything except for adding cheese and heating it up. Store it in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
Creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it with different vegetables or cheeses based on what you have at home. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and will surely become a family favorite. Try it out today!
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. This delightful dish combines tender rotisserie chicken and fresh broccoli in a luscious, velvety sauce that envelops perfectly cooked penne pasta. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe brings satisfaction to your dinner table in just 35 minutes. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, you’ll find yourself making this family favorite time and again.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (shredded)
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions in salted water. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking.
- Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli. Set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté onions until softened; add garlic for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmer for a few minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in cheeses until smooth. Season with spices.
- Combine drained pasta and broccoli with the sauce, adding shredded chicken last.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
