Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Update : January 15, 2026

why make this recipe

This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a fantastic meal that combines comfort food with healthy ingredients. It’s quick and easy to make, especially since it uses rotisserie chicken, saving you time in the kitchen. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner, and the creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with the fresh broccoli and tender pasta. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, making it both delicious and resourceful!

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 this dish warm. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal.

how to store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, if needed.

tips to make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Make sure to not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
If you want more flavor, try adding some cooked mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother and creamier sauce.

variation

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Alternatively, try using different types of pasta or dairy-free cheeses to adjust it to your dietary preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works great in this recipe. Just add it directly to the pasta water towards the end of cooking.

2. How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, you can use low-fat cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving. However, it’s best to add the broccoli right before serving to keep its color and texture intact.