Introduction
Welcome to a delightful dish that brings comfort and convenience to your dinner table. This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a vibrant medley of flavors and textures, perfectly balanced with tender pasta, fresh broccoli, and juicy pieces of rotisserie chicken. With its creamy sauce and a hint of garlic, it’s a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Grab your fork and let’s dig into this easy, nourishing meal!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of choice (penne or fusilli recommended)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. To make it even easier, in the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the vibrant broccoli florets to the boiling water. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing those flavors to deepen.
- Stir in the heavy cream, and allow it to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to create a luscious sauce.
- Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet, mixing until everything is heated through and comforting.
- Carefully fold in the cooked pasta and broccoli, letting the sauce envelop every piece with its creamy goodness.
- Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, adding a pop of color!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or varying the cheese. If you love a bit of heat, you can increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This dish can also be made ahead of time; simply reheat on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to bring back the creaminess.
Cooking Techniques
The secret to a perfectly creamy sauce lies in the balance of heavy cream and chicken broth. Low and slow heating helps meld the flavors, while adding the cheese at the end creates a velvety texture. Cooking the pasta and broccoli together not only saves time but also enhances the dish with fresh nutrients and vibrant color.
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! Simply cook and shred your chicken beforehand for a fresher option.
What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can leftovers be reheated?
Yes! Just warm them gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to retain creaminess.
Conclusion
This Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. With its creamy texture, wholesome ingredients, and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for both busy families and those cozy evenings at home. So gather your loved ones, serve up a generous portion, and relish the delightful flavors that this dish brings to your table!