Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors that will have your taste buds singing! With tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish also boasts vibrant green broccoli and juicy rotisserie chicken. It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal that feels like a treat. The visual appeal is undeniable, as the creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta and the colors pop on your plate.

The sensory experience is one you won’t forget—the aroma of garlic and onion fills your kitchen, while the creamy cheese sauce offers a luxurious mouthfeel. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare this fantastic dish, why it’s a must-try, and the many ways you can serve it. Let’s dive into the delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome chicken, broccoli, and herbs.
Ease of Preparation: Simple steps that even novice cooks can follow.
Nutrition: Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
Versatility: Great for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks.
Presentation: Visually appealing with vibrant colors and creamy textures.

You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

(Note that times may vary.)

Ingredients You’ll Need

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)

How To Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and 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. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in 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.
Remove skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Add 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.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve in large, shallow bowls for an inviting look.
Accompaniments: Pair with warm garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
Portions: Perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it great for family meals.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of white wine or refreshing lemonade.

This dish is sure to impress everyone at your table!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
Customization: Feel free to swap out the broccoli for spinach, peas, or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with extra cheese on top or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.

Recipe Variations

Cheesy Spinach Chicken Pasta: Replace broccoli with fresh spinach and add extra cheese.
Pesto Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: Incorporate a few tablespoons of pesto for an herbal kick.
Mushroom Alfredo: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For best quality, freeze in portioned containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Tongs

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great and will save you some prep time! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time.

2. Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
It’s relatively balanced but can be adjusted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets with appropriate substitutions.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

4. How can I customize this dish?
You can add different veggies, switch up the cheese or even use different types of pasta based on what you have.

5. What alternative cooking methods can I use?
You can make this dish in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for added convenience.

Conclusion

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for any occasion. With its comforting flavors and vibrant ingredients, it’s sure to please both family and friends. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’re just a few steps away from a delightful meal!