If you’ve ever longed for a comforting bowl of pasta that feels like a warm hug, then you are going to adore this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and perfectly cooked penne in a luxuriously creamy sauce made rich with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This recipe is a total game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something effortless yet utterly satisfying. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s hearty, wholesome, and so incredibly delicious you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but play a crucial role in building the textures and flavors that make this dish special. Each component from the creamy cheeses to the vibrant broccoli brings its own magic to the table.
- 1 lb penne pasta: A sturdy pasta that holds the creamy sauce perfectly without getting mushy.
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded): Adds juicy, flavorful protein without any fuss.
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Brings a fresh, slightly crisp texture and lovely green color.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For a subtle fruity base and sautéing the aromatics.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced fine): Adds warm, fragrant notes that elevate the dish.
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced small): Sweetens the sauce when gently sautéed.
- 2 tbsp butter: Enriches the sauce and adds a silky finish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heart of the luscious, creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium): Lightens the richness while keeping deep savory flavors.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Gives a sharp, nutty kick.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded): Melts beautifully, lending ooey-gooey goodness.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings warmth and balance.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor in a subtle, layered way.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring everything together.
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli Together
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. When there are about 3 minutes left on the pasta, add the broccoli florets directly to the pot. This technique ensures both are cooked just right without overdoing the broccoli’s bright crunch.
Step 2: Drain and Reserve Pasta Water
Before draining the pasta and broccoli, scoop out a cup of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. This water will be a secret weapon for adjusting the sauce’s consistency later. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds more—this way the garlic stays fragrant and never burns, ensuring the sauce develops a rich, delicate aroma.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
Pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet, stirring gently as you bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to start blending and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce is smooth and velvety. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. This step transforms the sauce into a perfectly balanced, creamy dream.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Chicken
Add the drained pasta and broccoli back into the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure they’re evenly coated in that divine cheese sauce. Then gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, letting the warm pieces soak up the luscious flavors.
Step 7: Adjust with Reserved Pasta Water
If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you get your desired creamy consistency. Finish off with a small knob of butter stirred in just before serving—it adds an extra glossy shine and melts into pure comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
For a fresh burst of flavor and texture, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the top right before serving. A little extra grated Parmesan adds an irresistible salty punch, and a pinch of red pepper flakes can perk up each bite if you love a touch of spice.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but pairing it with a crisp mixed green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread makes the meal feel even more special. The light salad balances the richness of the creamy pasta, while the bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and top each with a twist of freshly ground black pepper and a sprig of herb. For a family-style feast, present the skillet right at the table so everyone can help themselves to the comforting goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken upon chilling, so a gentle reheat will bring it back to creamy perfection.
Freezing
This pasta can be frozen, but cheese-based creamy sauces sometimes separate a little after thawing. If you want to freeze it, place leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to revive that beautiful creamy texture without drying out or burning.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended for its perfect bite and sauce-holding shape, rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle would also work nicely for this creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta recipe.
Is it okay to substitute frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine and is a great time-saver. Just make sure to add it to the pasta water during cooking as the recipe suggests so it cooks evenly and retains some texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the rotisserie chicken and perhaps add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to create a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is it with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle background warmth rather than strong heat, but you can always leave them out if you prefer no spice at all or increase for more kick!
What kind of rotisserie chicken is best to use?
Choose a plain or lightly seasoned rotisserie chicken for the best flavor balance. Too much seasoning on the chicken might overpower the delicate cream sauce in this creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe truly feels like a hug in a bowl—effortless to make yet bursting with comforting, layered flavors. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to some cozy indulgence, this dish is bound to become a go-to favorite. So grab that rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta, and dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness—you won’t regret it!
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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender shredded rotisserie chicken, vibrant broccoli florets, and al dente penne pasta tossed in a rich, creamy Parmesan and mozzarella cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines seamless stovetop cooking with pantry staples to deliver a hearty, cheesy meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta & Vegetables
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
Protein
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3–4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat)
Sauce & Seasonings
- 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)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 3 minutes of cooking time to steam them alongside the pasta.
- Reserve pasta water and drain: Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Then drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to combine and slightly thicken the sauce.
- Add cheeses and seasonings: Remove the skillet from heat. Whisk in grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Combine pasta, broccoli, and chicken: Add the drained pasta and broccoli into the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken to incorporate.
- Adjust sauce consistency and finish: Stir in reserved pasta water gradually until the desired creamy consistency is reached. Add a knob of butter just before serving to add extra richness and shine to the dish.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen broccoli florets based on availability and preference.
- Reserving pasta water is key to adjusting sauce thickness and helping the sauce adhere to the pasta.
- Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut that adds great flavor and saves cooking time.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or omit for no heat.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control salt levels in the dish.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and gives a superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
