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
Scale
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.
