Why Make This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a weeknight superhero in the kitchen. Not only does it come together in under 30 minutes, but it’s also a fantastic way to use leftover rotisserie chicken. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rich, creamy sauce will make every bite feel indulgent and satisfying. This dish strikes a perfect balance between convenience and comfort, making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Making this creamy pasta dish is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll cook the pasta and broccoli together for easy prep, and while they’re cooking, you’ll whip up a luscious cream sauce that ties everything together. The secret to its creaminess comes from a mix of heavy cream and freshly grated cheeses, and adding a splash of reserved pasta water gives it the perfect consistency. This is a dish that looks elegant enough for guests, yet feels cozy enough for a family dinner.
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:
- 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 the 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.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 620
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 55g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 33g
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This delightful pasta dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. You can garnish it with extra Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat, or even fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a hearty meal.
How to Store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Expert Tips for Perfect Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Use Fresh Broccoli: If using frozen broccoli, be sure it is fully thawed to prevent excess water from diluting your sauce.
- Fresh Cheese: Always opt for freshly grated cheese over pre-shredded; it melts better and enhances the creamy texture.
- Pasta Water Magic: The starchy pasta water not only helps with the sauce’s consistency but also adheres the sauce to the pasta, ensuring every bite is covered in flavor.
Delicious Variations
Feel free to customize this dish to suit your taste! Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy flavor, use spinach instead of broccoli for a different green, or substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or plant-based cream. You can also swap out the rotisserie chicken for cooked shrimp or grilled sausage for a delightful twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can use any pasta shape you enjoy, like fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti.
2. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes! You can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter dish. Just keep in mind that the texture will be less creamy.
3. How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added substance.
Conclusion
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful and satisfying meal that brings the whole family together. It’s quick, versatile, and oh-so-delicious, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Give it a try and enjoy a creamy, comforting dish that everyone will love! Don’t forget to share your culinary creation and any personal twists you add to this recipe; I’d love to hear what makes it special for you!