Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Looking for a comforting and satisfying dish? Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is an excellent choice, bringing together tender pasta, succulent chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxing family dinner, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why Make This Recipe

There are numerous reasons to whip up a batch of Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. First and foremost, it’s a time-saver. Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken cuts down on preparation time significantly, making this dish not only delicious but also convenient. Additionally, the creamy sauce made from heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of seasonings gives this pasta a rich flavor profile that’s comforting and indulgent.

Moreover, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily modify it to incorporate your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes, allowing you to cater the dish to your family’s preferences. It’s a great way to sneak in some greens—like broccoli—while still satisfying those cravings for a hearty pasta meal.

How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Making Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is easy and straightforward. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dish that looks like it took ages to prepare. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

• 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)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets directly to the pasta water.
2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
3. In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges, not a rolling boil.
5. Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding the cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
7. Add the reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until you reach a creamy, glossy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.

Pro Tips for Success with Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion can elevate the flavor, but if you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic and onion powders can work too.
• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps to achieve a creamy consistency, so make sure to reserve some before draining.
• Customize Your Cheese: While Parmesan and mozzarella are great together, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Gouda for a twist in flavor.
• Cook Taste Test: Always taste the creamy sauce before adding in the pasta. Adjust the seasoning according to your preferences.
• Cook on Low Heat After Adding Cheese: High heat can cause the cheese to clump rather than melt smoothly into the sauce.

Flavor Variations for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Cheesy Spinach Addition: Add a couple of cups of fresh spinach along with the cooked pasta for an extra dose of nutrients and color.
• Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet along with the onions and garlic for an earthy flavor to complement the creaminess.
• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest added just before serving can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing lift to the dish.
• Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh jalapeños to the mix.
• Herb Infusion: Swap out Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil or parsley to give it a unique aroma and freshness.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to make a complete meal:

• Garlic Bread: Slice up some crispy garlic bread to serve alongside for the perfect textural contrast.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted veggies like carrots or bell peppers, which complements the flavors beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with creamy pastas.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to retain its freshness. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to bring back its creamy consistency.

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion out your pasta into freezer-safe containers. It can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop, adding a little liquid if needed to smooth out the sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|———-|——–|
| Calories | 620 |
| Protein | 34g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |

FAQ About Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! If you have leftover baked or grilled chicken, feel free to shred it and use it in place of the rotisserie chicken. This can be a great way to use up leftovers while still creating a delicious meal.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is an excellent option for meal prep. You can divide it into individual servings and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just remember that the creaminess may reduce upon reheating, so add a little splash of liquid to revive the sauce.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

If you’re looking for a lighter version, try using whole wheat pasta to increase fiber and nutrients. Additionally, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk and use a reduced-fat cheese. This will lower the calorie count while still retaining some creaminess.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily modify this recipe to be vegetarian by omitting the rotisserie chicken and replacing it with extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You could also include cooked chickpeas for added protein.

What can I serve this pasta with to make it a complete meal?

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta can stand alone as a filling meal, but it pairs nicely with a light side salad or a bowl of steamed vegetables. Adding some garlic bread is also a classic choice that complements the creaminess of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful, hearty meal that ticks all the boxes for taste, nutrition, and convenience. This comforting recipe not only makes use of a rotisserie chicken to save time in the kitchen but also offers flexibility with ingredient choices to suit your family’s palate. Try making this dish today, and enjoy the creamy goodness that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

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