Can I Use Frozen Broccoli?

Yes! Add it directly to the boiling pasta water no need to thaw first.

Can I Substitute the Cream or Cheeses?

You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even cream cheese. Substitute cheddar or Gruyère for mozzarella if you prefer.

Avoid boiling the sauce once you add dairy. Keep it on low heat and stir often.

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta with a cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and bright broccoli for a comforting, 35-minute one-pot dinner.

Scale

1 lb penne pasta

1 whole rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 4 cups)

4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

2 tbsp olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 tbsp butter

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (whole milk)

Salt and black pepper to taste

¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

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1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta until al dente.

2. Add broccoli during the last 3 minutes of cooking time.

3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-low.

5. Cook onion until soft, then stir in garlic until fragrant.

6. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.

7. Remove from heat and stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.

8. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

9. Add pasta and broccoli to the skillet; toss to coat.

10. Fold in shredded chicken and add reserved pasta water gradually for desired consistency.

11. Stir in a small piece of cold butter right before serving for a silky finish.

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese to prevent curdling.

Use both white and dark meat for extra flavor.

Gradually add pasta water to adjust creaminess.

Reheat gently on stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.