Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of shredded chicken, fresh broccoli, and creamy pasta. This meal is not only quick to make but also full of flavor. It is perfect for busy weeknights, after-school meals, or any time you need a satisfying dinner. The blend of cheeses and seasonings makes it rich and comforting. The best part is that you can use a store-bought rotisserie chicken, cutting down on prep time significantly. This recipe truly shines as a great way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe for Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is one that many will enjoy. First, it is simple to prepare, making it ideal even for novice cooks. The use of a rotisserie chicken saves time, allowing you to whip up a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Second, the combination of penne pasta, broccoli, and creamy sauce delivers a wonderful texture and taste. Each bite offers a mix of creaminess, richness, and a bit of greenery with the broccoli.

Additionally, this dish is easily customizable. You can add other vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or use different cheeses to suit your taste.

Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta will be a hit. This meal is not only delicious but also filling, leaving everyone satisfied after dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables for those who may not enjoy them as much.

HOW TO MAKE Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Making Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is straightforward. With just a few steps, you will have a creamy pasta dish that everyone will love. Below is a detailed breakdown of the process.

 

 

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cup
• Colander for draining
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or tongs for mixing
• Whisk

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat)
• 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)

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it is al dente.
2. Add Broccoli: During the last 3 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets directly to the pot of pasta water. This method cooks the broccoli quickly and helps it soak up some of the pasta flavor.
3. Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta and broccoli, be sure to reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. This water will help create the creamy sauce later.
4. Drain Pasta and Broccoli: Drain the pasta and broccoli together in a colander. Set them aside for later use.
5. Cook the Onion and Garlic: In your largest skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook it for 4-5 minutes until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges, but avoid a rolling boil.
7. Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat completely before adding the cheese. This step prevents the cheese from becoming grainy. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth.
8. Season the Sauce: Next, season the sauce with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you wish. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
9. Combine Sauce, Pasta, and Broccoli: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Use tongs to toss everything gently, ensuring that the pasta and broccoli are coated evenly.
10. Add Chicken: Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last. This will help keep the chicken tender as you mix.
11. Adjust the Consistency: To achieve a creamy and glossy consistency, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time, about 2 tablespoons each, until you reach your desired texture.
12. Finishing Touch: Just before serving, stir in a cold knob of butter. This step makes the dish feel luxurious and gives it a restaurant-quality finish.

HOW TO SERVE Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is best served hot. You can dish it out in generous portions on plates or in bowls. For added flavor and presentation, consider garnishing with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. A side salad or garlic bread would pair nicely with this dish, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-5 days.

To freeze, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the pasta may expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

For a complete meal, consider serving Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta with:

• A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Roasted vegetables for an additional healthy side.
• A glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink to complete your meal.

VARIATIONS

This recipe is versatile, and you can make many variations to suit your preferences:

• Vegetable Swap: You can use other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers instead of broccoli.
• Different Proteins: If you prefer, substitute rotisserie chicken with cooked shrimp, sausage, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Cheese Variations: Try different kinds of cheese, such as cheddar or Gouda, for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of penne?
   Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta. It will have a different texture, but it is a healthier option.
2. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
   Yes, this dish freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
3. Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?
   Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese for a healthier option, but the sauce may differ in creaminess.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
   You can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce to increase the heat.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta even easier, you can prepare some components ahead of time:

• Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: You can cook the penne pasta and broccoli in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, and combine them with the sauce and chicken when you are ready to serve.
• Shred the Chicken: Shred the rotisserie chicken beforehand, and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Prep the Sauce Ingredients: Chop the onion and mince the garlic beforehand to save time when you are ready to cook.

Following these tips allows you to create this delicious dish with even less effort on the day you plan to serve it. Enjoy making this comforting and creamy pasta dish!

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