Description
Creamy and comforting pasta featuring rotisserie chicken and tender broccoli in a rich Parmesan-mozzarella sauce, ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) penne pasta
- 1 whole rotisserie chicken, shredded (about 4 cups cooked meat)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 tbsp butter (plus an extra pat to finish, optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions for al dente. With about 3 minutes left on the timer, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water before draining.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, about 5–6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1/2 cup chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Off the heat, whisk in 1 cup grated Parmesan and 1/2 cup mozzarella until the sauce is smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss to coat. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water until you reach a glossy consistency.
- Stir in an extra pat of cold butter just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning. Plate and serve immediately.
Notes
Best enjoyed with a green salad or garlic bread. Can be customized with additional ingredients like lemon zest, bacon, or mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian