Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Update : February 1, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a comforting dish that brings together tender pasta, flavorful chicken, and vibrant broccoli in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s easy to make, especially with the convenience of rotisserie chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, providing a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients:

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)

Directions:

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets directly to the pasta water.
Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes. Look for small bubbles around the edges, not a rolling boil.
Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese to prevent graininess. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Fold in shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Add reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time until you reach a creamy, glossy consistency. Stir in a cold knob of butter just before serving for a restaurant-quality finish.

How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Serve this creamy pasta dish hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. It pairs nicely with a side salad or some garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or on the stove. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

If you prefer a lighter dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
For a bit of zest, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Make sure to not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

Variation

You can easily customize this dish by adding different vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or shells, depending on your preference.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken instead of a rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use any leftover cooked chicken. Just shred or chop it before adding it to the pasta.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the creamy sauce and cook the pasta and broccoli ahead of time. Assemble just before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use milk and cornstarch as a substitute, or opt for a combination of sour cream and milk for a creamy texture.