ROTISSERIE CHICKEN BROCCOLI PASTA ULTIMATE

Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked pasta, coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce, studded with tender rotisserie chicken and vibrant broccoli florets; this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the answer to your dinner dilemmas, promising a satisfying and flavorful meal in under 30 minutes – and I promise, you’ll want to make it again and again!

What Makes This Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe So Special?

Okay, friend, let’s get real. We’re all busy. We all crave delicious food, but sometimes, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen is just… exhausting. That’s where this Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe shines! It’s not just *another* pasta dish; it’s a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights. The secret? A pre-cooked rotisserie chicken! Seriously, it’s a game-changer.

Using rotisserie chicken cuts down on cooking time significantly, turning what could be an hour-long endeavor into a super-fast, super-satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers. But beyond the convenience, this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta boasts incredible flavor. The creamy sauce, the perfectly cooked broccoli, and the tender chicken all come together in perfect harmony. It’s comfort food without the guilt!

And let’s talk about versatility! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Don’t have broccoli? Use asparagus! Prefer a different cheese? Go for it! Want to add a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. The possibilities are endless! This Chicken Broccoli Pasta dish is also perfect if you are looking for some Easy High Protein Meals to add to your weekly menu.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t worry, it’s a pretty straightforward list!

Pasta

• 1 pound pasta: Penne, rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape.

Chicken and Broccoli

• 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken: Shredded or cubed.
• 1 large head of broccoli: Cut into florets.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the broccoli.

Creamy Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted.
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
• 3 cups milk: Whole milk or 2% works well.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Or your favorite cheese blend (Monterey Jack, Colby Jack).
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For extra flavor and richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savory taste.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

Optional Add-Ins

• Red pepper flakes: For a little heat.
• Fresh parsley: For garnish.
• Lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Cooking!

Alright, now for the fun part! Don’t be intimidated; this recipe is seriously easy. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta on the table in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Don’t rinse it! We want that starchy water to help the sauce cling.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. You want them to be slightly softened but still have a bit of bite.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is called a roux). This step is crucial for preventing a lumpy sauce!
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
6. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta, sautéed broccoli, and shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
2. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve the Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta immediately.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a nice touch.
3. Enjoy your delicious and easy meal!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Want to take your Chicken Broccoli Pasta game to the next level? Here are a few extra tips and tricks to ensure success every time:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente pasta, which means “to the tooth” in Italian. It should be slightly firm and hold its shape well. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the sauce.
• Use fresh broccoli: While frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, fresh broccoli florets will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust the sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken up.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with cheese: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, Gruyere, or even a little bit of cream cheese for extra richness.
• Add some heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick to the dish. You can also use a dash of hot sauce.
• Make it ahead of time: This pasta dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you may need to add a little more milk or chicken broth when reheating.

Variations: Make It Your Own!

The beauty of this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe is that it’s so easy to customize. Here are a few variations to inspire you:

• Add different vegetables: Substitute the broccoli with asparagus, peas, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Use different protein: Instead of rotisserie chicken, try using grilled chicken, shrimp, sausage, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces, such as a pesto cream sauce, a tomato cream sauce, or even a simple garlic and olive oil sauce. You could also try making a Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake if you are looking for a different twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
• Add some herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can add a lot of flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.

Why Rotisserie Chicken is a Game Changer for Easy High Protein Meals

Let’s be honest, finding Easy High Protein Meals that are quick, delicious, and satisfying can feel like a constant battle. But incorporating rotisserie chicken into your meal planning can seriously simplify things! It’s already cooked, seasoned, and incredibly versatile. You can shred it, cube it, or slice it – the possibilities are endless.

Besides this fantastic Chicken Broccoli Pasta, you can use rotisserie chicken in salads, sandwiches, soups, tacos, or even on its own with a side of roasted vegetables. And because it’s packed with protein, it’s a great way to stay full and satisfied. Using rotisserie chicken in this Broccoli Pasta recipe will give you the protein you need!

Other Delicious Pasta Recipes to Try

If you love this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, you might also enjoy these other delicious pasta recipes:

• Check out this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.
• Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake: A cheesy and comforting baked pasta dish.
• Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne: A creamy and flavorful pasta dish with chicken and spinach.
• Chicken Broccoli Orzo Bake: A baked pasta dish featuring orzo pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
• For a simpler option, try this Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta.

Final Thoughts on This Chicken Broccoli Pasta

So there you have it – the ultimate Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe! It’s quick, easy, delicious, and customizable. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you’re craving a comforting and satisfying pasta dish. Give it a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! You can also use the same basic ingredients to make a Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake, which is another family favorite. Enjoy!

Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Ultimate

Amelia Chen-Morrison

This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a quick and easy weeknight meal made with tender rotisserie chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and can be easily customized with different vegetables, proteins, and cheeses.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle
• 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk whole milk or 2%
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes optional
• Fresh parsley optional
• Lemon juice optional

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and set aside, do not rinse.
• While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms.
• Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly.
• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Add the cooked pasta, sautéed broccoli, and shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce.
• Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out.
• Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a nice touch.

Notes

Don’t overcook the pasta. Use fresh broccoli for best flavor. Adjust the sauce thickness as needed. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Gruyere. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. This pasta dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, but the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you may need to add a little more milk or chicken broth when reheating. Substitute the broccoli with asparagus, peas, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Try using grilled chicken, shrimp, sausage, or chickpeas instead of rotisserie chicken.