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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

This creamy pasta dish combines tender penne pasta, rotisserie chicken, and vibrant broccoli, enveloped in a rich and flavorful sauce. It's a comforting meal perfect for any weeknight.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Chicken and Sauce
  • 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat)
  • 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)
Flavoring
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced fine)
  • 1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. 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.
  2. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Cooking
  1. 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.
  2. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth.
  4. Add drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken last.
  5. 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.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore creaminess. Can also be frozen for up to 2 months.