Cozy Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Delight

Growing up in the vibrant atmosphere of Orlando, my heart swayed to the rhythm of Mexican cooking. Fond memories sprinkle my childhood, from folding tortillas beside my mama to uncovering spice mysteries with my abuela. Each dish was a narrative, a celebration of love, laughter, and connection. While my roots lie deep in Orlando, I find a piece of my soul in the bustling mercados of Oaxaca. With every recipe I share, from hearty tamales to simple yet flavorful dishes, I invite you to experience the warmth of my kitchen, filled with the essence of Mexico and the comfort of home-cooked meals.

Indulge in this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, an effortless yet sumptuous choice for weeknight dinners. This dish merges tender rotisserie chicken with delicate penne and fresh broccoli tossed in a creamy sauce kissed with Italian herbs. It’s everything you crave—comfort, flavor, and a sprinkling of nostalgia, all combined into one delectable pasta dish that your family will be begging for again and again.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-Mexican Fusion
Best Season: Year-round

What Makes This Dish Shine

Heavenly Flavor: Each forkful of creamy pasta bursts with the savory richness of rotisserie chicken and the brightness of broccoli, creating a delightful explosion of flavors.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is simple enough for beginner cooks and can be ready in just 30 minutes!
Comforting Dining: The creamy sauce enveloping the pasta is warm and satisfying, making this dish an instant favorite for family dinners or gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Using rotisserie chicken means you’re saving time without sacrificing flavor. Plus, you can easily modify the recipe to suit dietary preferences or available ingredients.

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)

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta 4

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Ingredient Insights

Penne Pasta: Great at holding sauces, making it ideal for creamy dishes.
Rotisserie Chicken: A time saver that offers a depth of flavor; feel free to use leftover roast chicken.
Broccoli Florets: Adds a nutritious crunch. If using frozen, no need to thaw—just cook them with the pasta.
Cheese Choices: Substitute mozzarella with Cheddar for a sharp twist, or try goat cheese for tangy delight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to blanch them perfectly.
Drain and Reserve: Before you drain the pasta and broccoli, take a moment to reserve 1 cup of that starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. This little gem will help smooth your sauce later on!
Sauté in Skillet: In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Sauté the diced onion for about 4-5 minutes until softened, followed by adding the minced garlic for the last 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth, bringing this mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes, watching for small bubbles on the surface—not a full boil.
Add the Cheeses: Remove your skillet from heat before adding the cheese to ensure a smooth consistency. Whisk in both the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely melted, creating a luscious sauce.
Season It Up: Add in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and, if you like a kick, red pepper flakes.
Combine the Goodness: Carefully fold in your drained pasta and broccoli into the creamy sauce, using tongs to mix everything gently. Add the shredded rotisserie chicken last for an even blend.
Finish with Pasta Water: Gradually mix in reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency. Just before serving, stir in a cold knob of butter for a glossy, restaurant-worthy finish.

Pro Pointers for Best Results

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your pasta and broccoli to maintain their texture. You want everything al dente to ensure a delightful bite.
Cream Consistency: If your sauce gets too thick, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water until you achieve the creaminess you desire.
Fresh Cheese: Always opt for freshly grated cheese over pre-packaged for better melting and flavor.
Spice It Up: Adjust red pepper flakes to your taste if you enjoy a hint of heat in your creamy sauce.

Recipe Modifications for Varieties

Vegan Swap: Use plant-based rotisserie chicken or chickpeas, almond milk, and vegan cheese to create a dairy-free version.
Mild Variation: Omit spices like red pepper flakes and garlic powder for a family-friendly version suitable for kids.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy base for an extra burst of flavor.
Regional Twist: Incorporate chipotle cream sauce or top with crumbled queso fresco for a Mexican-inspired twist.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this creamy pasta with a chilled glass of your favorite sparkling water or citrus-infused lemonade. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or garlic bread on the side complements the hearty main dish beautifully.

Preparing Ahead & Freezing Tips

Make Ahead: Cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine right before serving. It’s an easy way to pre-prepare without losing flavor.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: For prolonged freshness, freeze components separately. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess.

Serving Ideas

Plate your creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta in a large serving bowl, garnished with fresh parsley for color and crunch. Create an inviting atmosphere by serving it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top—it adds a touch of elegance to the cozy vibes.

Kitchen Secrets to Make It Shine

One-Pot Wonder: For fewer dishes, consider cooking pasta directly in the creamy sauce. Add enough broth or water to cook pasta through and absorb the saucy goodness.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme provide aromatic lift—feel free to toss in at the end for a burst of freshness.
Flavor Acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can brighten flavors and elevate the dish to new heights.
Custom Salads: Easily switch up side salads with seasonal veggies or a zesty slaw to keep things fresh and exciting.

Reheating Your Leftovers

Microwave: Heat individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water. Cover to retain moisture and heat in 30-second increments until warmed through.
Stovetop Trick: Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to maintain that luscious creamy texture.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I use different pasta shapes? Absolutely! Feel free to swap penne for fusilli, rigatoni, or any favorite pasta shape you have on hand.
What if I don’t have rotisserie chicken? Using cooked chicken, turkey, or even canned chicken works perfectly to keep this recipe easy and delicious.
Is it okay to make this vegetarian? Yes, simply replace the chicken with an additional vegetable, like peas or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth for the sauce.
Can I add more veggies? Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or asparagus can easily be added for extra nutrition and color.
How can I make it richer? Substitute part of the heavy cream with mascarpone cheese or cream cheese for an even creamier sauce.
Can this be made gluten-free? Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and verify your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 generous cup
Calories: 600
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 65g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

A Note from the Heart

Cooking isn’t just about ingredients; it’s about connection, family, and a sense of belonging to one another through food. Every recipe we whip up together whispers tales of tradition, eager laughter, and the comforts of a shared meal around the table. This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta recipe embodies that warmth, promising each spoonful reflects the love poured into every moment spent cooking together.

Wrapping Up on a Delicious Note

Gather your loved ones and make this creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta tonight. This dish resonates with the homey warmth of shared meals and stories, inviting you to savor every bite. Don’t forget to share your culinary adventure with friends on Pinterest, inspiring them to join in the fun of creating something truly unforgettable. Happy cooking!