Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- 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, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water. Set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- 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.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and rotisserie chicken to the skillet with the broccoli.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta, chicken, and broccoli.
- Toss everything together until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Heat through for a minute or two, then remove from heat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Notes
Don't overcook the pasta; aim for al dente. Roast the broccoli for a caramelized flavor. Add red pepper flakes for spice. Experiment with different cheeses in the sauce. You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of milk or chicken broth.
