Description
How to make high protein rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta with tender chicken and fresh broccoli that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- Main Components:
- 1 pound (450g) short-cut pasta, such as penne or rotini
- 1 whole cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 1 large head)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Aromatics & Liquid Base:
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- Flavor & Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Finishing Touch:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
Don’t burn the garlic; cook it for only 60 seconds to prevent a bitter sauce.
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Substitute gluten-free pasta and broth for a compliant meal, or vary cheese and milk.
Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and Parmesan, perhaps with a side salad or crusty bread.
Shred chicken and chop broccoli up to two days ahead for quicker assembly on busy nights.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten