As I stirred the pot, the aroma of garlic and buttery goodness wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian bistro. This Creamy One-Pot Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is my go-to weeknight meal, and it’s ready in just 35 minutes! Packed with 28 grams of protein per serving, this delightful dish transforms leftover rotisserie chicken into a wholesome feast that will have your family asking for seconds. The combination of tender penne pasta enveloped in a silky, creamy sauce, paired with crisp broccoli, creates a comforting dinner perfect for busy nights. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but the one-pot preparation makes cleanup a breeze! So, ready to add a hearty twist to your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why is One-Pot Cooking So Amazing?
Simplicity: This Creamy One-Pot Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta brings effortless cooking to your kitchen—minimal prep and cleanup mean more time enjoying your meal.
High Protein: With 28 grams of protein per serving, this dish is filling and nutritious, perfect for families or anyone looking to stay healthy while enjoying comfort food.
Rich Flavor: The vibrant mix of garlic, buttery cream, and melted cheese creates a delectable sauce that elevates each bite, leaving everyone craving more.
Versatility: Want to switch things up? You can easily substitute ingredients, like using spinach instead of broccoli or swapping in your favorite pasta shape; the possibilities are endless!
Quick Meal Idea: Ready in just 35 minutes, this meal saves time on busy nights while delivering all the comfort and satisfaction you crave. Pair it with a refreshing salad or some garlic bread for a complete dinner!
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta – This hearty base provides structure, making every bite satisfying.
- Broccoli Florets (4 cups) – Adds a fresh crunch and a splash of color; both fresh and frozen work well.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Essential for sautéing, it enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Aromatic and flavorful, it forms the heart of the sauce.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced small) – Adds a natural sweetness after sautéing until translucent.
- Butter (2 tbsp) – Contributes richness and a glossy finish to the sauce.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Forms the creamy base, ensuring a luscious texture in each mouthful.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Keeps it moist and flavorful; low-sodium allows for better control of salt.
For the Cheesy Goodness
- Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, freshly grated) – Provides umami and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded) – Adds creaminess and that delightful stretchiness to the sauce.
For Seasoning
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Enhances the flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) – A little sprinkle boosts that garlic goodness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/4 tsp, optional) – A touch of heat to awaken the flavors; adjust based on preference.
With all these ingredients, your Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is just moments away from becoming a comforting family favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli in a colander, letting the steam escape.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, add the diced yellow onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Stir gently to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to let it boil; you want a gentle simmer to create a harmonious base for your rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses and Season
Remove the skillet from heat and gradually whisk in 1 cup of grated Parmesan and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if desired. The sauce should be creamy and velvety, perfect for coating your pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken
Return the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the creamy sauce. Then, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, combining everything thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess for the rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta.
Step 6: Finish with Butter
Just before serving, stir in a knob of cold butter into the hot pasta mixture to add a rich finish and glossy sheen. This step elevates the dish, ensuring every bite of your rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is deliciously creamy and satisfying. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making the dish even more delicious!
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space for expansion.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it appears thick, add a little reserved pasta water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
What to Serve with Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
The enticing aroma of creamy pasta fills the air, inviting you to create a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and crunchy croutons tossed in a tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
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Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery, and infused with garlic, this classic side enhances the meal, letting you enjoy every last bit of sauce.
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Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed beans add a fresh crunch and vibrant color to the plate, balancing the creamy pasta perfectly.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted to caramelized perfection adds Earthy flavors that beautifully complement the dish’s richness.
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Italian Tomato Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil offer a bright, tangy counterpart that brightens every bite.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, citrusy drink refreshes the palate, making every forkful of pasta even more delightful.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this creamy and indulgent treat rounds out the meal, ensuring a sweet ending to a savory feast.
Each pairing enhances the comforting experience of your rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta, making dinner a memorable occasion for everyone at the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the pasta and broccoli up to 24 hours in advance by cooking them as instructed and then storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the creamy sauce and refrigerate it in a separate container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, make sure everything is cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the reheated sauce, add in the shredded chicken, and if needed, use a splash of reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect creamy consistency, ensuring a delightful meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
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Cheese Care: Always remove the sauce from heat before incorporating cheese; this prevents graininess and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
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Meat Mix: Use a combination of white and dark meat from the rotisserie chicken. This adds depth of flavor and keeps the dish juicy and satisfying.
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Pasta Water Magic: Gradually add the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect sauce consistency. It’s your secret weapon for a creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta!
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Flavor Boost: Don’t be shy with seasoning; adjust the garlic powder and red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. Make it your own!
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Broccoli Prep: If using frozen broccoli, thaw it beforehand and pat dry to avoid excess water that can dilute your sauce.
Variations for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Feel free to explore and customize this comforting dish with these delightful tweaks!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute penne with gluten-free pasta for a friendly alternative that maintains the same satisfying taste.
Enjoy each luxurious bite without compromising your dietary needs; perfect for everyone at the table! -
Lightened Up: Replace heavy cream with a mix of Greek yogurt and low-fat milk for a lighter, yet creamy experience.
You won’t miss the calories, but you’ll still savor that rich flavor and texture—comfort food just became guilt-free! -
Veggie Boost: Add colorful veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for an extra nutrient punch and vibrant dish.
Brightening your plate not only adds flavor but also enhances presentation, making it even more appealing for your family. -
Add Some Kick: Boost the heat by including chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor profile.
Spice it up to suit your family’s taste; every bite will have a delightful kick that keeps them coming back for more! -
Seafood Option: Substitute rotisserie chicken with shrimp or crab meat for a unique seafood twist.
Combining the creamy sauce with tender seafood creates a luxurious dining experience, perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight treat! -
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley impart aromatic freshness; toss them in just before serving.
This aromatic touch elevates your dish and adds a burst of flavor that sings with every forkful! -
Cheesy Delight: Experiment by adding cream cheese or ricotta for an even richer, creamier sauce that melts in your mouth.
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any creamier; this secret ingredient will have everyone raving about your culinary skills! -
Savor the Italian: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an Italian medley of flavors that will transport you to Tuscany.
Each bite will be bursting with Mediterranean vibes, making your meal feel even more gourmet at home!
By trying these variations, you’ll discover new flavors and textures that keep your Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta exciting and fresh. If you love creamy dishes, you might also enjoy our Cajun Chicken Pasta or add some zing with our Sriracha Ground Chicken! Happy cooking!
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right broccoli for this pasta dish?
When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets that are firm to the touch, without any dark spots or wilting. Fresh broccoli will provide a satisfying crunch. If you’re short on time, frozen broccoli florets work just as well—just ensure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture in your dish.
How should I store leftovers of Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?
Store your delicious leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish tends to taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together beautifully! Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
Can I freeze Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze leftovers, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container as the pasta will expand when it freezes. For best results, reheat after thawing overnight in the fridge, and stir in a bit of cream when warming it up to restore its creamy texture.
What if my sauce is too thick when I combine everything?
If you find that your creamy sauce turns out to be too thick, don’t fret! Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, until you achieve your desired creaminess. This will help bring back that luscious and silky texture that makes this dish such a comforting delight.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
For those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance, you can substitute the heavy cream with a combination of unsweetened almond milk and a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Additionally, use dairy-free cheese options to maintain that delicious cheesy flavor without sacrificing your dietary needs.
Can I use different pasta shapes in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Feel free to replace the penne pasta with other shapes like fusilli or farfalle to mix things up. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your pasta reaches that perfect al dente texture. The more the merrier when it comes to experimenting with your favorite pasta shapes!
Comforting Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta in One Pot
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. In the last 3 minutes, add the broccoli florets. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, drain and let steam escape.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir gently and let simmer for 2-3 minutes without boiling.
- Remove from heat and whisk in parmesan and mozzarella until melted. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Return pasta and broccoli to skillet, toss gently to coat with sauce. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess.
- Stir in a knob of cold butter before serving for richness. Serve warm and enjoy!
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