Description
This High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is the ultimate quick dinner idea that’s creamy, comforting, and satisfying. Loaded with tender pasta, juicy rotisserie chicken, and fresh broccoli all tossed in a rich garlic cream sauce, it’s the perfect combination of ease and nourishment. Ideal for anyone seeking healthy food ideas or high-protein meal prep, this dish fits seamlessly into busy weeknights, post-workout meals, or cozy family dinners. From breakfast ideas turned dinner favorites to easy recipes that don’t skimp on flavor, this one is a must-try.
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
2 1/2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream or half and half
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup part-skim mozzarella or shredded cheddar (optional)
Zest of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente. In the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets. Drain together and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer. Lower the heat, then stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan and mozzarella (if using) until smooth. Fold in the shredded chicken.
5. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Reheat over low heat if needed.
6. Finish with lemon zest and garnish with fresh herbs and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
Freshly grated cheese melts better and avoids grainy sauce.
Don’t skip the lemon zest — it brightens the entire dish.
Use reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: high protein pasta, rotisserie chicken recipe, quick dinner, easy recipe, healthy dinner, broccoli pasta, creamy pasta