Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

There’s something so heartwarming about a creamy, comforting pasta dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Enter this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta—a dish that's perfect for weeknight dinners or when you've got a little more time to savor the process. Picture this: you're coming home after a long day, and the aroma of garlic and simmering sauce begins to envelop your kitchen. You can practically feel the love and warmth in every bite. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your go-to meals!

Why you’ll love this recipe

What makes this dish special? Well, first, it's all about that creamy, dreamy sauce clinging to perfectly cooked pasta—what’s not to love? The combination of flavors here is fantastic. You've got the savory goodness of rotisserie chicken, the bright crunch of broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce that brings everything together like a big family reunion at your dinner table.

And let’s talk about convenience. Using a rotisserie chicken cuts down on your prep time significantly. You can whip this dish up in about 30 minutes! It’s not just quick; it’s also versatile. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or your foodie friends, it’s sure to please. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze—always a win in my book!

Key ingredients overview

To create this magic, you’ll need these simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta: A classic choice that holds sauce beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you could swap this with fusilli or rigatoni for a fun twist.

• 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded): The star of the show! It’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. You can easily roast your own if you prefer, but store-bought makes life so much easier.

• 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh adds a nice crunch, but frozen works just as well—no need to overthink it!

• 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing those aromatics to perfection.

• 3 cloves garlic (minced fine): Because seriously, what’s cooking without garlic?

• 1 medium yellow onion (diced small): Adds sweetness and depth to our creamy sauce.

• 2 tbsp butter: Just enough to bring that rich, velvety texture.

• 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that luscious creaminess that elevates this dish.

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium): A splash of broth to build flavor.

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Always go fresh here; it makes such a difference in flavor.

• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded): For that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth finish.

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A little mix of herbs brings everything together beautifully.

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Double the garlic for double the flavor!

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a hint of heat if you're feeling adventurous.

The cooking process explained

Alright, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful cooking adventure!

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in your penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Right before draining, toss in the broccoli florets for the last 3 minutes. This two-in-one step keeps your broccoli vibrant and perfectly tender!

2. Save some pasta water: Reserve about a cup of that starchy water in a measuring cup—this is liquid gold that will help thicken your sauce later.

3. Sauté the aromatics: In your largest skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low. Add the diced onion and let it soften for about 4-5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will start smelling divine!

4. Create the creamy base: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. You should see tiny bubbles along the edges—no need for a rolling boil here; we’re not making pasta soup!

5. Cheesy goodness: Remove your skillet from the heat entirely before incorporating the cheeses—this one’s a game-changer! Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until they melt into a silky-smooth sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Don’t forget the optional red pepper flakes if you like a little kick!

6. Combine everything: Toss in your drained pasta and broccoli, using tongs to gently coat everything in that creamy sauce. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last, letting it warm through.

7. Adjust the sauce: Add your reserved pasta water, two tablespoons at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency. A little tip: stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for that luxurious finish!

Best way to enjoy it

Now that everything is beautifully combined, here’s how to serve it up: Plate generously and sprinkle with some extra Parmesan on top. You might want to drizzle a little olive oil or even fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Pair this dish with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread—because, why not? It makes for a hearty meal that's perfect for any day of the week!

Storage and reheating tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This creamy pasta keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or more chicken broth to loosen up that sauce. If you want to freeze it, it’s best to omit the cheese until you reheat, as it can become grainy when frozen and thawed.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are some extra nuggets of wisdom for making this dish sing:

• Use fresh herbs sparingly for a more vibrant flavor—basil, parsley, or even thyme can elevate it.
• If you're not a fan of broccoli, any green veggie will work; think peas or spinach for a different twist.
• Don’t skip on that reserved pasta water—it’s key to getting the sauce just right!
• For a bit of crunch, consider toasting some breadcrumbs and sprinkling them on top.

Creative Twists

Feeling a little adventurous? Here are some variations to switch things up:

• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
• Cheese swap: Try using gouda or fontina for a smokier other flavor profile.
• Veggie lovers: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and texture!

Ingredients list

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded)
• 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 to follow

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
2. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente; add broccoli for the last 3 minutes.
3. Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water. Drain pasta and broccoli together; set aside.
4. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
5. Sauté diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened; add minced garlic for 30 seconds.
6. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth.
8. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
9. Toss pasta and broccoli into the sauce; fold in shredded chicken last.
10. Add reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until creamy.
11. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving.

Common questions

• Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite kind.
• What if I don't have rotisserie chicken? You can roast your own chicken or use leftover chicken for a homemade option.
• How can I make this dish vegetarian? Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.
• Can I add other veggies? Yes! Bell peppers, peas, or even zucchini would be delicious.
• Is it okay to make ahead? Yes, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days!

This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is so much more than a meal; it’s a moment to share around the table, full of laughter and love. Not only are you treating your taste buds, but you’re also diving into all those comforting feelings that only home-cooked meals can bring. So, roll up your sleeves, get cooking, and don’t forget to make it your own—add those secret touches that make it uniquely you! You’ve got this!