When dinner needs to happen fast but still taste like something you spent hours on, this rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is what I turn to. It all started one busy Thursday evening. My fridge held half a rotisserie chicken from last night and a head of broccoli that desperately needed using. I tossed them into a pot with pasta, cream, and garlic, and what came out was unexpectedly comforting. My husband cleaned his plate before I could say, “You like it?” That’s when I knew this one deserved a permanent spot in our dinner rotation.
This dish has become my go-to when life’s chaotic, and I still want something that feels warm, homemade, and just a little indulgent. If you love fast meals that taste slow-cooked, this chicken and broccoli pasta won’t disappoint.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Broccoli Pasta
What makes this dish so special? First of all, rotisserie chicken adds major flavor with zero prep. You get tender, seasoned meat that blends beautifully with creamy pasta and broccoli florets. That combo gives you protein, veggies, and carbs all in one pot.
It’s ready in 25 minutes, uses basic pantry ingredients, and tastes like something you’d get at a cozy Italian bistro. Plus, it reheats like a dream; great for meal prep or next-day lunches.
This creamy rotisserie chicken pasta also adapts to your preferences. Want more garlic? Add it. Craving spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes transforms the sauce into something crave-worthy. It’s a blank canvas that works hard and tastes even better.
For another quick one-pot dinner idea, this low-carb chicken casserole is a great complement to your meal planning lineup.
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Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a creamy one-pot dinner made with shredded rotisserie chicken, broccoli, and parmesan in under 30 minutes.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Add broccoli during last 2 minutes of boiling.
2. Drain pasta and broccoli, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
3. In the same pot, sauté garlic in olive oil for 1 minute.
4. Add shredded chicken, pasta, broccoli, and cream to the pot.
5. Stir in parmesan and add pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer until everything is heated through and creamy.
Notes
Use any short pasta shape you like such as rotini or bowtie.
Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Pecorino or cream cheese can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Ingredients You’ll Need
This rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta recipe calls for simple, fresh ingredients you may already have:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rotisserie chicken (shredded) | 2 cups |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups (fresh or frozen) |
| Pasta (penne or fusilli) | 12 oz |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | ¾ cup |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
Need another comforting dish with a creamy base? Don’t miss this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. About 2 minutes before the pasta is done, add broccoli florets directly into the pot.
- Drain everything, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- In the same pot, sauté garlic in a little olive oil until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add in shredded rotisserie chicken, pasta, broccoli, and cream. Stir everything together.
- Add Parmesan cheese and splash in reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer just enough for everything to marry.
Looking for more cozy dinners like this? This chicken and sweet potato rice bowl is another winner.
Tips and Variations
- Use different pasta shapes: Fusilli or shells work great for holding the creamy sauce.
- Add spice: Red pepper flakes give this dish a surprising kick.
- Swap the cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or even cream cheese for a tangy twist.
- Make it low-carb: Serve the creamy chicken and broccoli sauce over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Want a similar low-effort meal with a spicy flair? Check out these cheesy garlic chicken wraps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta?
Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly when reheated. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk.
What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Short-cut pastas like penne, rotini, or bowtie are perfect. They hold the creamy sauce well and make every bite satisfying.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Toss it in during the last 2 minutes of pasta boiling. No need to thaw first.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream.
If you love creative one-pot pasta dishes, try this creamy gnocchi with spinach and feta.
Final Thoughts
This rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is the kind of meal that brings relief to your weeknight dinner scramble. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with protein and greens. Even better, it’s made in one pot and takes under 30 minutes from start to finish. With store-bought rotisserie chicken and a few pantry staples, you can have a wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug.
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