Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

 

 

This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is the kind of weeknight dish that feels special without the fuss. Tender penne and bright broccoli meet pulled rotisserie chicken in a silky Parmesan cream sauce that comes together in minutes. If you love easy family dinners, you might also enjoy our Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta for another comforting twist. Quick to prep and even quicker to vanish from the plate, this recipe is ideal when you want something comforting and colorful.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This pasta balances speed with comfort, using rotisserie chicken so you skip long cooking times while keeping rich flavor. The broccoli adds pops of green and a fresh snap that brightens the creamy sauce, making the dish feel lighter and more satisfying at the same time. It is flexible for busy nights, easy to scale up for guests, and invites simple swaps for whatever you have on hand. The ingredients list is short and pantry friendly, meaning most cooks can start without a special shopping trip. Visually, the contrast of green florets against the ivory cream and golden chicken looks beautiful on the plate, perfect for sharing on social feeds. Pair with a crisp salad and you have a weeknight meal that feels like a treat.

Flavor and Texture

Imagine a velvety sauce clinging to each penne, with the salty tang of Parmesan cutting through the richness of the cream. The shredded chicken soaks up flavor and offers tender bites throughout, while the broccoli keeps each forkful lively with texture. A gentle garlic aroma wakes the senses without overpowering the dish, and a final grind of pepper adds warmth and depth. The interplay of creamy, salty, and bright elements makes this pasta repeat worthy. It is a comforting mouthfeel that still manages to feel balanced and fresh.

Ingredients

• 3 cups penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step by Step Instructions

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cook until warmed through.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve warm.

Tips for Best Results

Use a pasta water splash if the sauce seems too thick; the starchy water helps loosen the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta. Cut broccoli into evenly sized florets so they cook at the same rate; if you prefer softer vegetables, steam briefly before sautéing. Choose a good quality grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor, or grate from a wedge if you have one on hand. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end since the cheese will add saltiness. For a brighter finish, a small squeeze of lemon over the top before serving lifts the cream without changing the character of the dish, and if you want a complementary grain bowl version try our grilled chicken broccoli bowls for inspiration.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce, or microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally. If freezing, leave out the cream and add it fresh when reheating for best texture; the pasta can become slightly softer after freezing. To make ahead for a crowd, cook the components separately and combine them in the skillet just before serving to keep broccoli vibrant.

Final Thought

This creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a dependable, family friendly meal that looks and tastes like care was taken, even when time is short. It showcases how a few good ingredients can transform leftovers into something special. Keep the pantry basics stocked and this recipe becomes a go to for busy evenings.

Conclusion

For another take on using leftover chicken with broccoli and cream, see this helpful recipe for Creamy leftover rotisserie chicken pasta which offers useful variations and serving ideas.

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