Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta | Creamy One-Pot Dinner

It’s one of those nights when you want something cozy, creamy, and fast the kind of dinner that feels like comfort in a bowl. That’s where Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta comes in. With tender chicken, bright green broccoli, and a velvety cheese sauce, this dish turns simple store-bought ingredients into a homemade win.

Why You’ll Love This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Flavor, Texture, and What Makes This Recipe Special

This pasta delivers everything you crave in one bite creamy, cheesy, and perfectly savory. The shredded rotisserie chicken adds richness without extra effort, while the broccoli brings color and freshness. Together, they create a silky sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Who This Recipe Is Perfect For

You’ll need just 35 minutes total, which makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. It’s also ideal for anyone who wants a filling, one-pan meal that feels like it took hours to make but didn’t.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pantry Ingredients and Seasonings

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Fresh Ingredients for Best Flavor and Texture

• 1 whole rotisserie chicken (about 4 cups shredded meat)
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded whole milk mozzarella

Notes on Choosing the Best Rotisserie Chicken

A good rotisserie chicken makes a huge difference. Choose a flavorful one, like Costco’s herb-seasoned version. Use both white and dark meat for the richest taste.

How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli Together for Efficiency

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until almost tender, then add broccoli in the last three minutes. Save one cup of pasta water before draining both together.

Step 2: Build the Creamy Garlic-Onion Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low. Cook the onion until it’s soft, then stir in the garlic just until fragrant. The kitchen will smell amazing right about now.

Step 3: Melt in the Cheeses Without Breaking the Sauce

Pour in the cream and chicken broth, then let it gently simmer. Remove from heat before adding Parmesan and mozzarella so the sauce stays smooth.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together and Adjust the Consistency

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Fold in the shredded chicken, then slowly stir in the reserved pasta water until it’s silky and coats the noodles perfectly.

Step 5: Final Touches for a Silky, Restaurant-Style Finish

Right before serving, stir in a small piece of cold butter. It gives the sauce a glossy finish and restaurant-level texture.

Tips for Success Every Time

How to Keep the Sauce Creamy

Always remove the skillet from the heat before adding cheese. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

How to Balance Flavor and Seasoning

Taste as you go. Add more salt or pepper only after the cheese melts, since Parmesan adds saltiness too.

Texture Tips: Pasta Doneness, Broccoli Tenderness, and Chicken Choices

Cook pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy later. Broccoli should be bright and tender, not overcooked. Use both white and dark chicken meat for balance.

Variations and Easy Add-Ons

Turning It Into a Baked Casserole

Transfer everything to a baking dish, sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

High-Protein or Lighter Modifications

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or add a scoop of Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. You can also use chickpea or lentil pasta for extra protein.

Flavor Boosters: Herbs, Spices, and Extra Veggies

Try a pinch of crushed red pepper for gentle heat. Add mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for more depth and color.

What to Serve With Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Light Sides to Balance the Creaminess

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables.

Protein-Packed Pairings for Bigger Appetites

Pair it with baked chicken wings or garlic shrimp if you’re feeding a crowd.

Bread and Vegetable Options for Complete Meals

Warm garlic bread or a loaf of crusty Italian bread makes every bite better. Steamed asparagus or sautéed zucchini works beautifully too.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

How to Store Properly for Up to Four Days

Keep leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days.

The Best Way to Reheat Without a Grainy Sauce

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sauce separate.

How to Refresh Leftovers Into a New Meal

Turn leftovers into a pasta bake just add a bit of milk, sprinkle mozzarella on top, and bake until bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Such Recipes

• slow cooker chicken burrito bowl
• creamy chicken pesto pasta
• crockpot garlic parmesan chicken and potatoes
• cheesy chicken garlic wraps
• chicken and zucchini recipe
• crockpot cheesy chicken spaghetti
• creamy ranch chicken

Conclusion

This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta brings comfort and ease together in one pot. Each forkful is creamy, cheesy, and perfectly balanced with fresh broccoli and tender chicken. Share it with your family, or make it ahead for quick weekday meals. For more recipes and kitchen ideas, follow along on Pinterest or Facebook.

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