There’s something magical about walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the comforting aroma of melted cheese and pasta bubbling away. This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a cozy dish that hits all the right notescreamy, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s no wonder this recipe is trending; it’s a quick way to get everyone around the table with smiles on their faces.
This dish brings together tender rotisserie chicken, broccoli, and al dente pasta, all bound in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s like your favorite comforting casserole, but ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, it cleverly uses leftover rotisserie chicken, so no need for extra fuss. You’ll find yourself reaching for pantry staples to whip this up any night of the week.
I started making this recipe during those hectic weeknights back in 2015 when my kids had activities every day. The first time I served it, my daughter exclaimed, “This is the best chicken and pasta ever!” The secret? A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up and balances the creaminess. After years of sharing family favorites, trust meit’s a winner for busy nights and family gatherings alike.
Yesica Andrews
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta: Easy and Delicious Recipe
Enjoy a creamy chicken broccoli pasta bake that’s both easy and satisfying with this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta. This cheesy broccoli chicken pasta combines tender rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and a luscious sauce for a one pot chicken broccoli pasta meal perfect for busy weeknights or leftovers. Whether you’re craving a comforting creamy chicken broccoli pasta bake or a quick cheesy broccoli chicken pasta dish, this recipe delivers delicious flavor in just 35 minutes.
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package until nearly tender, adding the broccoli florets in the final 3 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta and broccoli together, then set aside.
Warm the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and gently simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, just until small bubbles appear around the edges.
Take the skillet off the heat before whisking in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce is smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optionally red pepper flakes.
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli into the creamy sauce, tossing carefully with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the sauce achieves a creamy, glossy finish. Just before serving, stir in a cold knob of butter to add richness and shine.
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated cheeses and adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level. Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of cream or broth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta takes just 35 minutes to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting Flavor: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the tender rotisserie chicken and fresh broccoli, creating a nostalgic dish that feels like a warm hug.
Flexible Ingredients: Utilize leftovers or pantry staples; you can easily adjust the recipe to fit what you have on hand, ensuring it’s delicious every time.
Family-Approved: This dish is a hit at family gatherings and weeknight dinners, making it a great choice for bringing everyone together.
Key Ingredients and Tools
Here’s what you’ll need to get started on this heartwarming meal:
Pasta: 1 lb penne pasta (or any pasta shape you love)
Rotisserie Chicken: About 4 cups shredded from a 3-4 lb whole rotisserie chicken
Broccoli: Either fresh or frozen, 4 cups of lovely florets
Cheeses: Freshly grated Parmesan and whole milk mozzarella for that melty goodness
Pantry Staples: Olive oil, butter, garlic, onion, heavy cream, low-sodium chicken broth, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes for an extra kick
How It Works: Step-by-Step Guide
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions.
During the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets directly into the pasta water.
Before draining, reserve 1 cup of that delightful pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat, sautéing the diced onion until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
Add minced garlic and cook for just 30 secondsstop when fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, allowing it to gently simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the cheeses until smooth, followed by the seasonings.
Add the drained pasta and broccoli, gently tossing with tongs to coat them in the creamy sauce.
Lastly, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, adding reserved pasta water until you achieve a creamy, glossy texture.
Tweaks and Customization
Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own! Here are some tasty tweaks you can consider:
Add Veggies: Toss in some fresh spinach or cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and nutrition.
Make It Spicy: A dash of hot sauce or an extra pinch of red pepper flakes can add some heat.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap Parmesan for a different cheese like gouda or even vegan cheese for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Storage Tips
Your comforting rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta can be served as a main course with a salad or garlic bread on the side. Here are some useful storage tips:
Storage Method
Duration
Reheating Tips
Refrigerator (in airtight container)
3-4 days
Microwave or heat in a skillet; add a splash of milk or broth to revive creaminess.
Freezer (in airtight container)
2-3 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above.
Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Dish
Cheese Tip: Always remove the skillet from heat before adding cheese for a smooth, creamy sauce without graininess.
Pasta Water: Remember, the starchy pasta water is key to achieving that luscious sauce!
Rotisserie Chicken Ready: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option that adds protein.
Expert Says
Rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is not only convenient but also offers a great balance of protein and fiber. The chicken provides essential amino acids, while broccoli adds valuable vitamins and minerals. Using whole grain pasta can further enhance dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you satisfied longer.
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The Journey to My Perfect Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
This rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta recipe took a few attempts to get just right. I remember nearly drowning it in too much sauce on my first try, but those missteps led me to a balanced dish bursting with flavor and nutrition. Now, it’s a family favorite that never disappoints.
FAQs ( Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta )
What is the best way to store leftover rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the rotisserie chicken and using vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers as a protein substitute. Also, consider using vegetable broth and adding more cheese for flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also finish it with a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce to taste before serving. Adjust the heat according to your preference!
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple garden salad or garlic bread for a more satisfying dinner. You might also serve steamed peas or roasted vegetables for a nutritious complement. Choose sides that won’t overshadow the flavors of the meal!
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in how quickly it cooks. You’ll still enjoy a delicious meal!
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta brings warmth to your kitchen in just 30 minutes! The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and bright broccoli create a cozy dish that’s simply irresistible.
Feel free to play around: toss in extra garlic for a kick or use whatever veggies you have on hand! A trick I learned from my aunt? Save some pasta water to keep it creamy when reheating.
I’d love to see your creations! Did you grow up with something like this? Share your photos or stories, and don’t forget to save this recipe for those busy weeknights when you need a hug in a bowl.
