Quick & Easy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients for High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

• 1 pound (450g) short-cut pasta, such as penne or rotini: The essential base for this comforting pasta dish. Choose your favorite shape to perfectly hold the delicious sauce.
• 1 whole cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 4 cups): The star high protein component, making this dish incredibly quick. Look for a plain or herb-roasted rotisserie chicken.
• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head): Adds vibrant color, essential nutrients, well-balanced texture. Ensure florets are uniform for even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing aromatics and vegetables. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for best taste.
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped: Forms an aromatic foundation, adding sweetness and depth to the sauce. Sauté until translucent for optimal flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a warm, comforting aroma and robust flavor. Don’t let it brown; cook until fragrant.
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base for the sauce, ensuring moisture and taste. Essential for a creamy, rich sauce.
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%): Contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce without being overly heavy. You can also use half-and-half for richness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving: Adds a salty, umami depth and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated is always superior for best flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that provides classic Italian flavors. Rub between your palms to release more aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Offers a gentle warmth and subtle kick to balance the rich flavors. Adjust to your preferred level of spice.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish, cutting through richness and adding a lovely tang. Always use freshly squeezed for optimal flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: The fundamental seasonings that enhance all other flavors. Taste and adjust throughout the cooking process.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a burst of fresh color and herbaceous finish. Stir in just before serving for maximum impact.

How to Make High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

Cook Pasta & Veg:

Start by cooking your short-cut pasta according to package directions until al dente. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This preps for your High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.

Sauté Garlic:

Add minced garlic to the softened onions and cook for just 1 minute until fragrant. Don’t let it brown! This aromatic base is crucial for the delicious sauce in your High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe).

Simmer Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth and milk, then stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld for 2-3 minutes. This creates the creamy base for the High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.

Cook Broccoli:

Add the fresh broccoli florets to the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. You want it vibrant green, not mushy, for perfect texture in this dish.

Mix Components:

Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce and broccoli. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated in the flavorful sauce.

Finish Pasta:

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh lemon juice until well combined and the cheese melts into the sauce. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Garnish & Serve:

Divide the High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe) among serving plates. Garnish each portion with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Store High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

To store leftover High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Don’t leave it at room temperature too long; otherwise, it can spoil quickly – a mistake I’ve made! Discard if you notice off smells or unusual textures.

For quicker assembly, shred your rotisserie chicken and chop the broccoli up to two days in advance, storing them separately. When reheating, a splash of broth or milk helps maintain a fresh, creamy texture.

What to Serve with High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

Serve this Quick & Easy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta immediately, warm from the skillet. For a lovely presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley and Parmesan. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or warm, crusty bread. Enjoy every comforting bite!

My favorite way to serve this is with extra Parmesan and a crisp green salad. The fresh greens perfectly cut through the pasta’s richness, making each bite even more satisfying. It’s a simple pairing that truly works.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long can I store leftover High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta in the fridge?

You can safely store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I’ve learned from experience that leaving it out too long can spoil it quickly. Reheat gently with a splash of broth.

→ Can I freeze this High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta for future quick meals?

Freezing this pasta dish isn’t ideal, as the pasta and broccoli can become mushy upon thawing. However, you can shred the chicken and chop broccoli up to two days ahead to save time.

→ Can I use a different type of milk or cheese in this chicken broccoli pasta recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Feel free to use skim milk for a lighter sauce, or even cream for extra richness. For cheese, Pecorino Romano or even a sharp white cheddar can offer a delicious twist.

→ How do I prevent my broccoli from becoming mushy in this High Protein Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

The key is to cook the broccoli until it’s just tender-crisp, usually 5-7 minutes. Overcooking turns it mushy and loses its vibrant color, which isn’t fun. Keep a close eye on it!

→ Can I easily make this Quick & Easy High Protein Chicken Broccoli Pasta gluten-free?

Yes, it’s very simple! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free short-cut pasta for regular pasta. Ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious, compliant meal.