Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta: 7 Comforting Recipes

Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, hearty dinner that uses ready-made rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy sauce. This dish is not just easy to prepare but also delivers a delightful blend of flavors that everyone in the family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines the convenience of rotisserie chicken with the nutritional benefits of broccoli and pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

This dish is a favorite for several reasons. First, it’s a quick chicken broccoli pasta meal that can be prepared in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, it’s a creamy chicken broccoli pasta dish that satisfies your cravings for comfort food. Third, using rotisserie chicken means less prep time, allowing you to enjoy more family time. Additionally, it’s a healthy option packed with protein and vegetables, making it a great choice for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Finally, this recipe can easily be adapted; try adding different vegetables or using a different type of pasta for variety!

Ingredients for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Gather these items:

  • 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs), shredded (about 4 cups)
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)

How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Shred rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces; discard skin/bones. Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets (1-1.5 inches). Dice onion finely and mince garlic. Grate Parmesan, chop parsley, and zest lemon (if using).
  2. Step 2: Cook pasta al dente in a large pot of heavily salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup starchy pasta water, then drain.
  3. Step 3: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes; cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and steam for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp and vibrant green.
  5. Step 5: Remove lid and reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and warm gently for 2-3 minutes. Gradually add grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella (if using), stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Step 6: Add the cooked pasta and shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Stir in half of the chopped parsley and lemon zest (if using). Give a final taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Step 7: Serve immediately. Garnish each portion with the remaining fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips for the Best Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Keep these in mind:

  • This dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • You can use leftover chicken or other pasta shapes if desired.
  • For a healthier twist, consider using whole grain pasta or adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
  • Adjust the creaminess by varying the amount of heavy cream; you can use half and half for a lighter version.

Best Ways to Serve Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Here are some serving ideas:

  • Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
  • Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • For a twist, top with toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch.

How to Store and Reheat Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. This is a great meal prep option that can save you time during the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

Achieving the perfect broccoli and chicken pasta dish requires cooking the pasta al dente and not overcooking the broccoli, which should remain vibrant and tender-crisp. This ensures that all ingredients retain their flavors and textures.

Can I make Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve. This makes for a quick chicken broccoli pasta meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you don’t overcook the pasta or the broccoli. Also, be mindful of the seasoning; taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance in the creamy chicken broccoli pasta.

Variations of Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta You Can Try

Here are a few creative variations:

  • Try a rotisserie chicken fettuccine with broccoli for a different pasta shape.
  • Make a rotisserie chicken and broccoli casserole by baking the dish with a breadcrumb topping.
  • Add different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta: 7 Comforting Recipes - Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category for inspiration!

Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta: 7 Comforting Recipes - Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta - additional detail

For tips on cooking pasta perfectly, visit Serious Eats.

For more information on the health benefits of broccoli, check out Healthline.

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Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta: 7 Comforting Recipes


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  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Comfort food

Description

Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting, hearty dinner that uses ready-made rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta in a creamy sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole rotisserie chicken (34 lbs), shredded (about 4 cups)
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Shred rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces; discard skin/bones. Cut broccoli into small, uniform florets (1-1.5 inches). Dice onion finely and mince garlic. Grate Parmesan, chop parsley, and zest lemon (if using).
  2. Cook pasta al dente in a large pot of heavily salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup starchy pasta water, then drain.
  3. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 5-7 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes; cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add broccoli florets, cover the skillet, and steam for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp and vibrant green.
  5. Remove lid and reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and warm gently for 2-3 minutes. Gradually add grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella (if using), stirring continuously until melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Add the cooked pasta and shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Stir in half of the chopped parsley and lemon zest (if using). Give a final taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Serve immediately. Garnish each portion with the remaining fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • This dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
  • You can use leftover chicken or other pasta shapes if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

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Hi! I’m Margaret!

A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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