Craving something creamy, comforting, and irresistibly easy? This rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta blends tender chicken, vibrant greens, and velvety sauce in one dreamy dish. It’s the kind of recipe you make once and crave forever.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights using pre-cooked chicken.
- Flavorful and Creamy: The sauce is rich but not overpowering.
- Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and customizable.
- Budget-Smart: Uses pantry staples and leftovers.
- Great for Meal Prep: Reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.
Detailed Ingredients and Instructions
Let’s break down what you’ll need and exactly how to bring this rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta to life.
Ingredients Overview
This pasta is built on simple, comforting ingredients that melt together into one creamy, satisfying bowl of flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken: Shredded and ready to go, this shortcut delivers juicy flavor while saving time.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds color, texture, and a wholesome bite that balances the richness.
- Pasta: Short shapes like penne or rotini work best for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- Butter: Forms the base of the sauce and adds richness.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic creates a warm, savory aroma that carries through the dish.
- Heavy cream: The key to a silky, luxurious sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for smooth melting and deep cheesy flavor.Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Optional add-ins: Red pepper flakes for heat, lemon zest for brightness, spinach for extra greens, or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just tender. A few minutes before it finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets. This allows everything to cook together while keeping the broccoli vibrant and tender. Drain and reserve a small amount of pasta water.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant and lightly golden. This step creates the savory backbone of the sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently warm. Stir continuously to prevent scorching. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce becomes smooth, thick, and glossy.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Fold the shredded rotisserie chicken into the sauce. Allow it to warm through so it absorbs the creamy flavors.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently until every piece is coated in the sauce. If needed, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the texture.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add optional red pepper flakes or lemon zest for extra flavor. Serve warm with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and enjoy the creamy comfort.
Tips, Variations, and Storage Options:
Helpful Cooking Tips:
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save about a cup of the pasta cooking water. The starchy water is perfect for thinning out your sauce without losing flavor.
- Shred Chicken Ahead of Time: You can shred the rotisserie chicken as soon as you bring it home. Store it in an airtight container for a quick start later in the week.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Avoid pre-minced garlic in jars. Fresh garlic gives your sauce a richer, more authentic base.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon-Garlic Twist: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice and extra lemon zest to create a lighter, brighter version of this dish.
- Cheesy Bake: After tossing everything together, place it in a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar, and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Spicy Upgrade: Stir in chopped jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce to give the dish a satisfying kick.
- Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or baby spinach for added nutrition and variety.
Make It Healthier:
- Swap out the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter sauce.
- Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta to add fiber and protein.
- Skip the butter and sauté garlic in olive oil instead.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of milk or water before reheating.
- Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to one month. Use freezer-safe containers and let it cool completely before sealing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
- Reheat Gently: Avoid high heat when reheating to keep the sauce from breaking. Stir frequently and add a little liquid to bring the creaminess back.
Equipment Needed:
You don’t need a lot of fancy gadgets to make rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. Here are the basics:
- Large Pot: For boiling pasta and blanching broccoli. A wide, heavy pot works best.
- Colander: Essential for draining pasta and broccoli quickly.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: For making the sauce and combining all ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle on non-stick cookware and ideal for mixing the creamy sauce.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements and consistent flavor every time.
Optional but helpful:
- Grater: For freshly shredding Parmesan or lemon zest.
- Tongs: Great for tossing the pasta and broccoli gently into the sauce.
Related Recipes:
If you love the comforting blend of chicken, vegetables, and pasta, here are a few recipes to explore next:
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake: A baked version featuring a white sauce, tender chicken, and bubbly cheese over fettuccine.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: Loaded with garlic, shredded rotisserie chicken, and a creamy parmesan base.
- Chicken and Broccoli Casserole: A baked favorite that uses rice instead of pasta for a heartier feel.
- One-Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta: Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and chicken simmered in a creamy herb sauce easy and flavorful.
- Pesto Chicken Penne: Fresh basil pesto meets shredded chicken and penne for a quick Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
These options are perfect for meal prep or switching up your weekly dinner routine.
Pairing/Serving Suggestions:
Simple Sides:
- Garlic Bread or Breadsticks: Something to soak up every drop of the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, Parmesan, and tangy dressing contrast beautifully with the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make a colorful, healthy side.
Drink Pairings:
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cuts through the richness.
Serving Ideas:
- Family-Style Dinner: Serve everything in a big pasta bowl with tongs in the center of the table for a cozy meal.
- Meal Prep Lunches: Divide into meal prep containers with extra steamed veggies for a week of satisfying lunches.
- Fancy Dinner Night: Plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a twist of lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-style touch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to add them to the boiling pasta water a little later than you would with fresh broccoli—about 2 to 3 minutes before the pasta is done. This prevents them from overcooking and becoming mushy.
What type of pasta works best with this recipe?
Short-cut pasta like penne, rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni works best for holding onto the sauce and combining evenly with the broccoli and chicken. However, long pastas like fettuccine or linguine can also be used for a different texture experience.
Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened dairy-free alternative such as oat or almond cream. Use a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan. Also, sauté the garlic in olive oil instead of butter.
How can I thicken the sauce if it feels too thin?
Let the sauce simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce naturally, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of cold water. Let it cook for another minute or two until thickened.
What protein can I use if I don’t have rotisserie chicken?
You can use grilled chicken breast, leftover turkey, roasted tofu for a vegetarian version, or even cooked Italian sausage for added depth of flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning if using something that’s already heavily spiced.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can make the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It actually reheats beautifully. Add a splash of milk or broth while warming to revive the creamy texture.
Nutrition Information:
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving of rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. Please note that exact values may vary based on the brands and quantities used:
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fats: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 2.1mg
This dish is balanced in protein and fats and provides fiber and calcium thanks to the broccoli and cheese. To make it lighter, consider using whole grain pasta and reduced-fat dairy.
Seasonal and Occasion Variations:
- Spring Freshness: Brighten up your rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta with asparagus tips, peas, and lemon zest. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or tarragon will enhance the seasonal flavors.
- Summer Twist: Add cherry tomatoes, grilled zucchini, or corn kernels for a more vibrant, sunshine-ready dish. Swap the heavy cream for a lighter olive oil and lemon vinaigrette to make it feel more like a warm pasta salad.
- Fall Comfort: Include roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes and a pinch of nutmeg for a cozy twist. A handful of crispy sage leaves on top makes it extra special for cool nights.
- Winter Indulgence: Make it extra creamy by adding a blend of cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Toss in sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for richness, and top with breadcrumbs for a casserole-style bake.
- Holiday Dinner Hack: Need something quick but festive? Dress up your rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta with dried cranberries and toasted pine nuts. Serve it with sparkling cider or wine for an elegant but effortless holiday meal.
- Special Occasions: If you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating an anniversary at home, plate the pasta individually with a swirl of cream sauce and a sprig of parsley. Pair with garlic knots and a dressed arugula salad for a complete, restaurant-worthy meal.
My Recipe Tips:
- Let the Chicken Warm Before Adding: Cold rotisserie chicken can cool down your sauce too quickly. If you’re pulling it straight from the fridge, warm it in the microwave for a minute or let it sit at room temperature while you prep the sauce. This helps the final dish stay piping hot and creamy.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: The biggest mistake people make is letting the broccoli go too long. You want it bright green and tender with a little bite. It should only take about 2 to 3 minutes in boiling water. Overcooked broccoli loses both color and flavor.
- Season in Layers: Every component pasta water, sauce, and final mix—should be seasoned appropriately. Salt the pasta water well (like the sea), taste the sauce before combining, and always do a final seasoning check. This creates depth and avoids a bland result.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. For the best creamy consistency, grate your own cheese just before using it.
- Customize It to Your Palate: This recipe is super flexible. Want it extra cheesy? Double the Parmesan. Need it spicier? Add a dash of cayenne. Craving more vegetables? Toss in baby spinach, sautéed bell peppers, or mushrooms. The base is strong enough to support almost any variation.
- Try a Crunchy Topping: To turn this into a baked casserole, transfer everything to a dish, top with breadcrumbs mixed with butter and herbs, and broil until golden. The contrast between the crunchy topping and creamy pasta is irresistible.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Just like lasagna, letting the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving helps the sauce set slightly, making it easier to plate and even tastier.
Conclusion:
Rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta isn’t just a dinner—it’s a comforting, craveable dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent needing a fast meal, a college student craving something homemade, or a seasoned cook looking for something cozy and easy, this dish has a place at your table.
It captures everything we love about good food: flavor, flexibility, and that nostalgic feeling of something warm, creamy, and homemade. With just one pot and a few fresh ingredients, you’ve got a dinner that’s wholesome, hearty, and deeply delicious.
And the best part? There’s no right or wrong way to make it your own. Add what you love, skip what you don’t, and let this become one of those go-to recipes you return to over and over again.
Hungry for more cozy meals? Dive into our collection of pasta favorites, chicken dinners, and easy comfort food recipes designed to make your weeknights a little more delicious.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine) Salt, for boiling water 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded 2 cups broccoli florets 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup chicken broth ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Optional garnish Fresh parsley, chopped Extra parmesan cheese
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. During the last 2 minutes, add broccoli to the pot. Drain together and set aside. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix until smooth. Add shredded rotisserie chicken to the sauce and warm through. Toss in the cooked pasta and broccoli until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
