Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente.
- During the last 3 minutes of cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from the heat completely before adding cheese. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until completely smooth. Then, season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
- Add the 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.
Notes
For extra creaminess, use more heavy cream. Feel free to add more vegetables or use different types of pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Paleo
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: pasta, chicken, broccoli, creamy, quick meal, weeknight dinner
