Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, a dish that marries convenience with sophistication. Featuring tender pieces of rotisserie chicken enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce, this recipe elevates everyday ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. The vibrant green of fresh broccoli punctuates the dish, not only enhancing its visual appeal but also adding a nutritious element that balances richness and freshness.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: Perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing sophistication.
- Minimal Ingredients: Simple components like pre-cooked chicken and fresh vegetables streamline the cooking process while ensuring maximum flavor.
- Impressive Flavor: The harmony of creamy sauce and tender pasta, complemented by aromatic herbs, creates a dish that delights the palate without overwhelming it.
Ingredients
Base
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded (warm or room temperature)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed for tenderness)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a bit of pasta water for later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, avoiding browning.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Incorporate Cheese: Reduce heat to low, stirring in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add Chicken and Broccoli: Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and broccoli florets, combining well until heated through and evenly coated in sauce.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, using tongs to redistribute the sauce evenly. If the mixture appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
- Plate the Dish: Serve immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan. The vibrant colors and rich aromas should entice every diner.
How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Present this dish in elegantly shaped bowls, allowing the creamy pasta to spill over in an inviting manner. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a touch of color but also offers a hint of herbal freshness. Serve with warm, artisanal bread for an added touch of refinement.
How to Store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
To maintain the delicate texture and flavor, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Allow the pasta to cool before sealing to prevent condensation. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating when possible, as it may alter the sauce’s consistency.
Tips to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese to enhance the flavor profile.
- Balance the Creaminess: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish, providing a pleasant contrast to the cream.
- Add Depth: Consider sautéing shallots alongside the garlic for additional layers of flavor.
- Explore Textures: Top with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of olive oil for added crunch.
- Season Mindfully: Taste as you season; the Parmesan can contribute significant saltiness.
Variation
For an elevated twist, consider substituting the rotisserie chicken with sautéed shrimp or crab meat. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor. Presenting the dish in individual ramekins adds a charming touch to any table setting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli is a convenient alternative. Just ensure it’s slightly thawed and avoid overcooking it to maintain texture.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
While fettuccine and penne are excellent choices, feel free to use your favorite pasta type, as long as it holds the sauce well.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese options for a delicious, dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta embodies a harmonious blend of elegance and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Its effortless preparation, rich flavors, and appealing presentation will surely impress. Reflect on how this dish could shine in your culinary repertoire. How would you make this dish your own? Consider sharing your thoughts or variations in the comments below and inspire others to elevate their dining experience.
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Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pulsed Protein
Description
A luxurious dish featuring rotisserie chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or lightly steamed)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot, adding a generous pinch of salt. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a bit of pasta water for later.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and gently sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, avoiding browning.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low, stirring in the grated Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Gently fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and broccoli florets, combining well until heated through and evenly coated in sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, using tongs to redistribute the sauce evenly. If the mixture appears too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan.
Notes
For added flavor, consider incorporating a squeeze of lemon juice and adding toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg