High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta folds tender penne with shredded rotisserie chicken, broccoli, garlic, Parmesan, mozzarella, and a creamy skillet sauce. It is a practical high protein dinner for busy nights because the cooked chicken saves time while the pasta and broccoli make it feel complete.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken 3 to 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
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until nearly al dente.
- Add the broccoli during the final 3 minutes of pasta cooking, then reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
- Warm olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then cook the diced onion until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes for about 30 seconds.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream, then simmer gently until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Reduce the heat and stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the drained pasta, broccoli, and shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet and toss to coat.
- Loosen with reserved pasta water as needed, then serve warm once the chicken is heated through.
Notes
Storage: Store cooled pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating: Reheat gently with a splash of broth, milk, or water to bring the sauce back together.
Expert Tips: Keep the heat low after adding cheese so the cream sauce stays smooth and does not separate.
Variations: Use whole wheat pasta, protein pasta, spinach, peas, or a lighter cream option depending on what you have.
Meal Prep: Portion the pasta into shallow containers and let it cool before sealing so lunches reheat evenly.