“Did you hear that comforting blend of flavors and textures about to take center stage?” This Creamy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is not just a meal; it’s your ticket to achieving that blissful balance between health and satisfaction. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a family-friendly dinner that features juicy rotisserie chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a silky cottage cheese sauce—perfect for those days when fast food feels too tempting. With the added nutritional boost of blended cauliflower, even the pickiest eaters won’t mind. This dish stands out both for its quick prep time and its ability to please everyone at the table. Are you ready to dive into this wholesome comfort food? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this recipe a family favorite?
Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting meal on the table without the stress. Perfect for busy weeknights!
High Protein Boost: Packed with nutritious ingredients like rotisserie chicken and cottage cheese, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that keeps everyone satisfied.
Kid-Approved: This pasta dish cleverly incorporates hidden veggies like cauliflower, ensuring even the pickiest little eaters enjoy every bite.
Versatile Options: Whether you’re using leftover chicken or trying out different veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, this recipe easily adapts to your preferences.
Creamy & Delicious: The silky cottage cheese sauce adds a rich creaminess that comforts your soul, making this dish a go-to favorite.
For more delightful twists on chicken, check out my recipes for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and Chopped Chicken Caesar.
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Ingredients
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For the Pasta
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Cavatelli – Provides a chewy, al dente base for the dish. De Cecco is recommended for optimal texture.
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For the Protein
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Rotisserie Chicken – Offers convenience and flavor; fully cooked, shredded chicken makes prep easy. Substitutes include leftover cooked chicken or poached shredded chicken.
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For the Sauce
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Bouillon Cube – Adds depth of flavor to the dish. Use low-sodium options if preferred.
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Cottage Cheese – Acts as the creamy base for the sauce, enhancing the protein content. Good Culture is recommended for a thicker sauce; Greek yogurt is a potential alternative.
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Cauliflower – Adds creaminess and nutrition when blended into the sauce. Ensure well-drained before blending; frozen cauliflower can be used.
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For the Veggies
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Broccoli – Provides crunch and nutrition, adding vibrant color. Blanch for more tenderness if desired.
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Spinach – Increases nutritional value and volume. Fresh or frozen spinach both work; if using frozen, thaw and drain beforehand.
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Garlic (minced) – Imparts a savory aroma and depth. Freshly minced garlic is preferred for optimal flavor.
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For the Seasoning
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Olive Oil – Used for sautéing aromatics and vegetables; adds richness to the dish. You can substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor.
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Parmesan Cheese – Adds a sharp, salty flavor to the dish. Grated or shredded is preferable, with additional for serving.
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Lemon Zest – Brightens the flavors and balances the richness. Can be adjusted based on preference.
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Black Pepper – Enhances flavor complexity. Freshly ground pepper is preferred for best results.
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Red Pepper Flakes – Introduces a touch of heat. Adjust amount based on heat preference.
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For Garnish
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Parsley (for garnish) – Adds freshness and color. Other herbs like basil or chives could be substituted.
This delightful Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a cherished recipe the whole family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a food processor, combine 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 cup of steamed cauliflower (well-drained), and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This luxurious sauce will be the delicious foundation for your creamy high protein rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. Set aside the sauce while you tackle the pasta and veggies.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the cavatelli and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining the pasta through a colander—this will help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant and lightly golden. Toss in 2 cups of chopped broccoli and 2 cups of fresh spinach, cooking for 4-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender-crisp and the spinach is wilted, radiating a vibrant green color.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Once the vegetables are ready, add the drained pasta along with 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken into the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce and ½ cup of the reserved pasta water over the mixture, gently stirring to combine. Heat everything together for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the pasta and veggies beautifully.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the remaining ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning generously with freshly ground black pepper, red pepper flakes, and the zest of 1 lemon. Mix well to enhance the flavors, and if the sauce seems too thick, add more reserved pasta water to reach your desired creaminess. Divide the creamy high protein rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm for a delightful family meal.
Expert Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
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Pasta Water Magic: Save at least 1 cup of reserved pasta water to ensure the sauce clings perfectly to the rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta without becoming too dry.
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Blend Smoothly: Make sure cauliflower is well-drained before blending to create a creamy sauce without lumps. A smooth blend enhances the dish’s texture.
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Heat Control: Avoid adding sauce to the skillet if it’s too hot; this can cause curdling of the cottage cheese, ruining the silky texture of your sauce.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, especially with black pepper and red pepper flakes, to cater to your family’s heat preferences.
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Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. This flexibility keeps meals exciting!
Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Whole Wheat: Swap the cavatelli for whole wheat pasta to add more fiber and nutrients. It’s just as comforting—with a bit of a wholesome twist!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish accommodating for those with dietary restrictions. You won’t sacrifice any flavor with this swap!
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Shrimp Delight: Replace the rotisserie chicken with sautéed shrimp for a seafood-inspired take. This variation brings a fresh twist that’s equally delightful!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with sautéed tofu or chickpeas for a satisfying vegetarian version. It guarantees the dish remains hearty and fulfilling!
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Loaded Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for an extra veggie boost. Each bite will be bursting with color and nutrition!
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Creamy Variations: If you desire a thicker sauce, mix in some cream cheese or ricotta. This will add a different level of creaminess and richness!
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Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you love heat. Adjust to your desired spice level, fueling those taste buds!
For more delightful chicken dishes, don’t miss out on my comforting Greek Chicken Meatballs with Lemon Orzo and indulge in the crispy goodness of Fried Chicken Street Tacos with Jalapeno Lime Ranch.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the sauce and sauté the vegetables up to 3 days in advance, keeping them refrigerated in airtight containers. To maintain quality, store the cooked pasta separately and toss everything together on the day of serving. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the sauce and veggies in a skillet, stir in the cooked pasta and shredded rotisserie chicken, and heat for a few minutes until warmed through. This method ensures your meal is just as delicious while saving you precious time on hectic weeknights!
What to Serve with Creamy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
Imagine a table filled with vibrant colors and heartwarming scents that elevate your family dinner experience.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it makes the perfect partner to scoop up every delicious bite of your pasta.
- Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine tossed in zesty dressing complements the creamy pasta beautifully while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies offers a lovely char and nutrients that balance the dish’s richness.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned, this elegant side enhances the meal while providing a splash of bright color and flavor.
- White Wine: Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc for a crisp contrast that accentuates the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a rich and fluffy dessert, providing a delightful finish to your comforting dinner.
Storage Tips for Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let the pasta cool completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens during storage.
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Flavor Improvement: The flavors of this dish tend to deepen and develop over time, making it even more delicious when enjoyed as a leftover!
Creamy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe broccoli for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for firm, vibrant green florets without dark spots or yellowing. The stalks should be crisp, not limp, and the overall appearance should be fresh. If you find any dark spots all over, it’s best to skip it.
How should I store leftover creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to maintain its freshness. For best flavor, enjoy it within the first couple of days!
Can I freeze the creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta? What’s the process?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool and then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Make sure to seal them tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of pasta water if the sauce thickens.
What are some common issues people face when making this recipe?
One common challenge is ensuring the sauce is not too thick. If this happens, after combining everything, if the sauce seems too thick, simply add a little more reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess. Additionally, preventing the cottage cheese from curdling is crucial—avoid pouring it into the hot pan directly.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! For those with dairy allergies, you may substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free yogurt alternative to keep the creaminess while accommodating specific dietary restrictions. Always double-check your chicken and bouillon cube labels for gluten content if you’re preparing this dish for someone with a gluten sensitivity.
Can this recipe be adapted for a vegetarian version?
Very! You can swap the rotisserie chicken for sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas to maintain that protein punch while ensuring it’s deliciously hearty. Incorporating different veggies like zucchini or asparagus can also elevate this dish, keeping it flavorful and satisfying.
Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta for Quick Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a food processor, combine 1 cup of cottage cheese, 1 cup of steamed cauliflower (well-drained), and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatelli and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add 2 cups of chopped broccoli and 2 cups of spinach, cooking for 4-5 minutes.
- Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta and 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken into the skillet along with the prepared sauce and ½ cup of reserved pasta water. Heat together for about 3-4 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Stir in the remaining ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, season with black pepper, red pepper flakes, and lemon zest. Serve warm, garnished with parsley.
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