If you are craving a hearty yet nutritious dinner that comes together quickly, look no further than this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe. It effortlessly combines tender shredded chicken, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious, cheesy sauce that feels indulgent without the fuss. Whether you’re rolling in from a busy day or simply want a satisfying meal packed with protein and veggies, this dish delivers on all fronts with its rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in harmony. Each one brings a unique element — from the creamy cheese blend adding richness, to the broccoli contributing freshness and color, and the rotisserie chicken supplying a quick protein punch.
- Cooked rotisserie chicken (2 cups): Pre-cooked chicken makes this meal a breeze and adds savory depth.
- Pasta of choice (250 g/9 oz): Penne or fusilli work wonderfully as their shapes hold the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Broccoli florets (300 g/10 oz): Adds vibrant green color and a nutritious crunch.
- Olive oil or butter (1 tbsp): For sautéing garlic and enhancing flavor.
- Garlic cloves, minced (3): Provides aromatic, savory notes that lift the dish.
- Milk (1 cup): Creates a smooth, creamy sauce; opt for light cream to make it extra luscious.
- Shredded cheese (100 g/3.5 oz): Cheddar or mozzarella make the sauce melty and comforting.
- Grated parmesan (30 g/2 tbsp): Adds a nutty, salty kick to enrich the sauce.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the best flavors.
- Optional chili flakes or lemon zest: For a subtle spicy or zesty kick if you want to switch things up.
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions. When only three minutes remain, toss in the broccoli florets so they gently blanch with the pasta. This timing ensures the broccoli stays crisp-tender, retaining its bright color and subtle crunch. Drain together and set aside for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Using the same pot to save on cleanup, warm your olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and golden. This quick step infuses the oil with savory garlic aroma, which becomes the flavorful base for your creamy sauce.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Pour in the milk (or light cream if you’re feeling indulgent) and add both the shredded cheese and grated parmesan right away. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt fully into a smooth, velvety sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste here, balancing the richness while enhancing all the layers of flavor.
Step 4: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Broccoli
Now the magic happens: toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked pasta, and blanched broccoli. Carefully mix everything until every bite is coated in the luscious cheese sauce. The tender chicken adds protein, making this meal not only delicious but wonderfully satisfying.
Step 5: Simmer and Serve
Let the combined ingredients simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dish to warm through evenly. Serve this creamy pasta piping hot, optionally garnished with extra parmesan or a sprinkle of chili flakes or lemon zest for a personalized touch.
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brightens both the flavor and appearance here, but don’t underestimate the magic of adding a final dusting of parmesan cheese. It adds a lovely sharpness that complements the creaminess perfectly. For a little extra zing, a few chili flakes or freshly grated lemon zest awaken the senses and elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe truly shines on its own, but a crisp green salad or a simple garlic bread loaf can round out the meal. The refreshing crunch of a salad or the warm, buttery bread helps balance the creamy richness and adds pleasing textural contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleaser, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls and garnish with colorful herbs or edible flowers. Another fun idea is to plate it layered in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant greens and cheesy sauce. If bringing it to a gathering, bake the mixture with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The broccoli may soften on reheating, but the flavors remain just as delicious, making for perfect next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
For longer storage, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Though the texture of the broccoli might change slightly after freezing, the creamy sauce and chicken retain their taste and protein-packed goodness.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent drying out the pasta and chicken. A gentle reheat keeps everything creamy and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables besides broccoli?
Absolutely! Cauliflower, snap peas, or spinach can be great choices. Just adjust cooking times to keep them tender-crisp and vibrant, so they complement the creamy pasta perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! The Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe is excellent for meal prep since it stores well and reheats easily. It’s ideal for busy weekdays when you want a homemade meal without the fuss.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
For a dairy-free twist, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. The texture and taste will be slightly different but still satisfyingly creamy and flavorful.
What type of pasta works best?
Penne or fusilli are the stars here because their shapes catch the sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, whether it’s spaghetti, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options.
How can I add more protein?
Beyond rotisserie chicken, you can toss in cooked beans or chickpeas for additional plant-based protein. Adding a scoop of ricotta cheese or mixing in some Greek yogurt when creating the sauce also boosts protein content deliciously.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a quick, nourishing meal that feels both cozy and special, this Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe should be on your dinner rotation. With its satisfying blend of creamy sauce, wholesome veggies, and tender chicken, it hits all the marks: easy to make, packed with nutrients, and utterly irresistible. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite weeknight dishes too!
Print
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken & Broccoli Pasta: 35-Minute High Protein Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy rotisserie chicken and broccoli pasta is a quick and high-protein meal ready in just 35 minutes. Tender shredded rotisserie chicken combined with al dente pasta and vibrant broccoli florets are tossed in a luscious garlic cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish balances wholesome ingredients with rich flavors for a satisfying plate everyone will love.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 300 g (10 oz) broccoli florets
Pasta
- 250 g (9 oz) pasta of choice (penne or fusilli work well)
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup milk (or use light cream for extra richness)
- 100 g (3.5 oz) shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 30 g (2 tbsp) grated parmesan
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Optional: chili flakes or lemon zest for a flavor boost
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Once done, drain both pasta and broccoli and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Add the milk and shredded cheeses to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: Toss the shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked pasta, and broccoli into the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure every component is evenly coated.
- Simmer and Serve: Let the combined mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through completely. Serve hot, garnished with extra grated parmesan and optional chili flakes or lemon zest for added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the rotisserie chicken with leftover cooked chicken or turkey.
- Use light cream instead of milk for a richer sauce texture.
- Adding chili flakes or lemon zest can brighten and enhance the flavor profile.
- To keep this dish gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
