Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
A comforting and creamy pasta dish featuring rotisserie chicken and broccoli, perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz penne pasta You could use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded This saves time and adds incredible flavor—feel free to substitute with grilled chicken.
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets Fresh or frozen works; the latter will save on prep time.
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter Unsalted is best to control the seasoning; olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds depth—though jarred minced garlic is convenient if you’re short on time.
- 1 cup heavy cream For creaminess; swap half with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier twist.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese This gives our sauce richness; nutritional yeast can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
Sautéing the Broccoli
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes until they’re vibrant green and tender.
Adding Garlic
- Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Preparing the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the broccoli and garlic.
Incorporating Chicken and Cheese
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
Combining Pasta
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water to achieve your desired creaminess.
Seasoning
- Taste your pasta and add salt and pepper as needed, then remove it from the heat.
Notes
If using leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water over low heat to bring back the creamy texture. Consider using fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for an added burst of freshness.