Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Update : February 26, 2026

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a wonderful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your mealtime. With tender pasta, tasty rotisserie chicken, and vibrant broccoli all coated in a rich creamy sauce, this recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients, making it a great choice for busy weekdays or cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover rotisserie chicken!

How to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
1 whole rotisserie chicken (3-4 lbs, shredded, about 4 cups meat)
4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic (minced fine)
1 medium yellow onion (diced small)
2 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (whole milk, shredded)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add broccoli florets to the pasta water.
Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta and broccoli together. Set aside.
Heat olive oil and butter in your largest skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the diced onion for 4-5 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat completely before adding cheese. Whisk in Parmesan and mozzarella until smooth, then season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the creamy sauce, tossing gently with tongs to coat everything. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken last.
Stir in reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until you achieve a creamy, glossy consistency.
Just before serving, incorporate a small knob of cold butter for a restaurant-quality finish. Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

This dish is best served warm right after you make it. You can place it in a large serving bowl or serve individual portions. For extra flavor, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top. A slice of garlic bread or a side salad pairs nicely too!

How to Store Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of milk or water to help bring back the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Customize it by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
If you like spices, add more red pepper flakes for a kick.
Ensure the cheese is finely grated for a smooth melting experience.

Variation

You can easily switch up this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle. You can also substitute the rotisserie chicken with cooked shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just fine! Just add it to the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking.

2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can replace the heavy cream and cheeses with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk and vegan cheese.

3. Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta instead of regular penne.

4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare everything in advance, store it, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be mindful that the pasta may absorb some sauce as it sits.