Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Easy Dinner Idea

Looking for a quick dinner idea that pleases everyone? Try my Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta! It's easy, tasty, and full of nutrients. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a meal in no time. Plus, you'll learn handy tips for perfecting that creamy sauce. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients

Pasta Selection

For this dish, I like to use either penne or rotini pasta. Both types hold sauce well. Penne has a smooth surface, while rotini has twists that trap the sauce. This helps each bite burst with flavor. You can choose based on your mood or what you have at home.

Broccoli and Chicken Components

Next, we need 2 cups of broccoli florets. Fresh broccoli adds crunch and color. It also brings nutrients to the meal. For the chicken, we use 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. This saves time and adds great flavor. You can use store-bought or leftover chicken from a previous meal.

Sauce Ingredients

The sauce is creamy and rich. Here’s what you need:

- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

The garlic gives the sauce a nice aroma. Red pepper flakes add a hint of spice. Heavy cream makes it smooth, while Parmesan brings a salty bite. Finally, always season your sauce with salt and pepper. These ingredients come together to create a delicious, creamy coating over the pasta and broccoli.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Use a medium-high heat to get it bubbling. Add 8 ounces of penne or rotini pasta. Cook it according to the package directions until it's al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. In the last 3 minutes, add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the pot. This way, both the pasta and broccoli cook together. Drain the pasta and broccoli carefully in a colander. Set them aside for later.

Preparing the Garlic and Red Pepper Sauce

While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 3 finely minced garlic cloves and 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like it spicy. Sauté them for about 1 minute. Stir constantly until the garlic smells good and is lightly golden. Be careful not to let it brown, or it will taste bitter.

Combining the Main Ingredients

Now, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet. Stir it well to mix everything. Let it simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. Next, add 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Make sure to mix it well so the chicken is covered in the creamy sauce and warmed through. Then, add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together. Ensure all the pasta and veggies are well coated in the creamy sauce. Finally, taste your dish and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Creamy Sauce

To make a creamy sauce, you need to heat the oil first. Adding garlic to hot oil brings out its flavor. Stir it for just a minute. If you let it cook too long, it can burn. Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes. This helps the sauce thicken nicely. Add the shredded chicken next. Stir it well so every piece is coated with sauce. This step makes sure the chicken is warm and flavorful.

Cooking Times for Al Dente Pasta

Cooking pasta correctly is key to a great dish. I suggest using penne or rotini for this recipe. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package. For al dente, check it a minute before the time is up. In the last three minutes, add the broccoli. This helps it cook without becoming mushy. Drain both together and set them aside.

Garnishing and Presentation Ideas

How you present your dish matters! After serving the pasta, sprinkle fresh basil on top. This adds color and a fresh taste. You can also add more Parmesan cheese for a cheesy look. If you want a little heat, place some red pepper flakes on top. This not only looks nice but also adds flavor. Serve it in bowls for a cozy feel. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the vibrant colors!

Variations

Dietary Alternatives (e.g., Gluten-free, Vegan)

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Look for brands that offer options like rice or corn pasta. If you want a vegan version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Nutritional yeast can give you a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Different Pasta Types to Use

Penne and rotini are great choices, but you can mix it up. Fusilli or farfalle also work well. Even spaghetti can be fun if you prefer long noodles. Pick the shape you like best. Each type will hold the sauce differently, making your meal unique.

Flavor Boosts (e.g., herbs and spices)

To elevate the taste, add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. You can also use Italian seasoning for a fragrant touch. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish. If you like heat, toss in more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These small changes can make a big difference!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

You can store your leftover rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta in an airtight container. Let it cool first. Then, place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you keep track of freshness.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the microwave or the stove. For the microwave, place the pasta in a bowl. Add a splash of water or cream to keep it moist. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If using the stove, warm it over low heat in a skillet. Stir often to prevent sticking. Heat until hot throughout.

Best Practices for Freezing

You can freeze this dish if you want to save it for later. Use a freezer-safe container and leave some space at the top. The pasta will expand when frozen. It’s best to consume it within two months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. This helps keep the texture nice.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken leftovers?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken leftovers. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix it into the sauce for a hearty meal. This recipe shines with the rich taste of seasoned chicken. Don’t let leftovers go to waste; they make this dish quick and easy.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you need a substitute for heavy cream, try using half-and-half. It’s lighter but still creamy. You can also use Greek yogurt mixed with milk. This adds tanginess and thickness. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream. It gives a nice flavor and keeps the dish creamy.

How to make this recipe spicier?

To add spice to this recipe, use more red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste as you go. You can also add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper. If you like hot sauce, drizzle some in during cooking. Adjust the spice level to your taste for a kick!

This blog post covered how to make a delicious chicken and broccoli pasta dish. I explained ingredient choices, like pasta, chicken, and sauce. You learned step-by-step instructions for cooking and combining everything. Tips on making a creamy sauce and cooking pasta perfectly were shared. I also discussed variations for different diets and how to store leftovers properly.

In the end, this dish is flexible and tasty. You can make it your own with different ingredients. Enjoy trying out these ideas in your kitchen.