ROTISSERIE CHICKEN BROCCOLI PASTA EASY

Imagine twirling your fork around tender pasta strands, coated in a creamy sauce with savory bites of rotisserie chicken and perfectly cooked broccoli florets – all ready in under 30 minutes! This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate comfort food shortcut, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how easy (and delicious!) it is to make.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work great)

For the Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
• 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Started with 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, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics and Broccoli:

1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the broccoli florets and cook until bright green and slightly tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. You can add a splash of water to the pan and cover it to steam the broccoli if needed.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine Everything Together:

1. Add the cooked pasta and rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the broccoli.
2. Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
3. Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
4. Heat through for a minute or two, then remove from heat.

Serve and Enjoy:

1. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious and easy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta!

Why Rotisserie Chicken is Your New Best Friend

Let’s be honest, we all have those days where cooking from scratch feels like climbing a mountain. That’s where the humble rotisserie chicken swoops in to save the day! It’s pre-cooked, packed with flavor, and incredibly versatile. For this Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, it’s the perfect protein shortcut, cutting down on prep time without sacrificing taste.

Beyond pasta dishes, think salads, soups, sandwiches… the possibilities are endless! Plus, using a rotisserie chicken means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book.

Tips and Tricks for the BEST Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente. It will continue to cook a bit in the sauce.
• Broccoli Tip: Roasting the broccoli instead of sauteing it adds a lovely caramelized flavor. Toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Cheese, Please!: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the sauce. Gruyere, mozzarella, or even a bit of cream cheese can add a unique twist.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately and combine when ready to serve. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.

Variations to Make it Your Own

This recipe is a fantastic base for customization! Here are a few ideas to spark your creativity:

• Add Veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Swap the Protein: If you’re not feeling chicken, try using cooked sausage, shrimp, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce: Replace half of the chicken broth with tomato sauce for a richer, slightly tangy flavor.
• Lemon Herb Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some fresh herbs like basil or oregano to brighten up the dish.

Pairing Suggestions

This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your dinner, here are a few pairing suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Because who can resist garlic bread with pasta?
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts for extra veggies.

Storing and Reheating

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store the Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Other Delicious Pasta Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a pasta lover like me, you’re always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes. Be sure to check out these other favorites:

• Try this Buffalo Wild Wings Chicken Pasta for a kick of flavor.
• For a southern twist, give Cajun Chicken Spaghetti a try.
• Enjoy the fresh taste of Romano Chicken With Lemon Garlic Pasta.
• A simple and satisfying Broccoli Chicken Penne is always a good idea.
• Perfect for gatherings, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser.
• And for a comforting classic, there’s nothing like Chicken Garlic Parmesan Pasta.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – a foolproof recipe for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta that’s both easy and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or any time you’re craving a comforting and delicious meal. Don’t be afraid to get creative with the variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!