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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

A comforting and delicious pasta dish featuring rotisserie chicken, fresh broccoli, and a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  2. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water.
  3. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water in a measuring cup. Then, drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
  4. In your largest skillet, heat olive oil and butter 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.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat before adding the cheese to avoid graininess. Whisk in the Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce is completely smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  7. Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything evenly. Finally, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken.
  8. 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

Ensure not to overcook the pasta. Adjust seasonings to taste and consider adding cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor.

  • Author: jessica-baker
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Meat

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 500
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 51g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pasta, chicken, broccoli, creamy, weeknight dinner