Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Update : January 3, 2026

Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta made with rotisserie chicken and vegetables.

why make this recipe

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Second, using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to the dish. Plus, the combination of pasta, broccoli, and creamy sauce makes it comforting and satisfying for the whole family. Lastly, it’s a great way to get some veggies into your meal without sacrificing taste!

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 and cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, 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, then 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 Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta warm. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

To store leftover pasta, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to maintain its creaminess.

tips to make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Be careful not to overcook the broccoli. Adding it in the last few minutes of pasta cooking time will keep it vibrant and crunchy.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, don’t hesitate to add more cheese or reduce the amount of chicken broth.
Feel free to customize the dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for additional nutrition.

variation

For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta or swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative. You can also switch up the cheeses, using gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Bowties, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work well.

2. What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken?
You can use any cooked shredded chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider adding chickpeas or tofu.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and combine everything before serving. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid separating the sauce.