Ingredients for High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

• High Protein Pasta (12 ounces penne or rotini): The base for this satisfying meal, providing essential complex carbohydrates. High protein pasta boosts the overall protein content significantly.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (3 cups): The star protein, making this a truly high protein dish. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves precious time.
• Broccoli Florets (4 cups fresh or frozen): Adds vibrant color, essential nutrients, and a delightful crunch. A classic pairing with chicken and pasta for a balanced meal.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Essential for sautéing aromatics and building the flavor foundation. Choose a good quality oil for the best taste.
• Yellow Onion (1 small, diced): Provides a sweet aromatic base, crucial for depth of flavor. Sauté until translucent for optimal taste in this comforting pasta.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Delivers pungent, savory depth that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic is always superior to jarred for flavor.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth (1 cup): Forms the liquid base for our creamy sauce, adding savory chicken flavor. Low sodium allows you to control the saltiness.
• Half-and-Half (1/2 cup): Creates a luscious, creamy texture without being too heavy. It’s key for that comforting, rich sauce consistency.
• Cream Cheese (4 ounces, softened, cubed): Melts into the sauce, adding incredible creaminess and a subtle tang. Crucial for a rich, high protein sauce.
• Plain Full-Fat Greek Yogurt (1/2 cup): Boosts protein content significantly while adding a delightful tanginess. It’s the secret ingredient for a healthier, creamy sauce.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, plus more for serving): Infuses the sauce with salty, umami richness. Essential for that classic, comforting pasta flavor profile.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste): Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the sauce. Season gradually and taste as you go.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): Adds a subtle warmth and peppery bite. Freshly ground pepper offers the best aroma and flavor.
• Dried Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that provides classic, comforting Italian-American flavors. It ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
• Fresh Parsley (1/4 cup chopped, for garnish): Provides a pop of fresh color and herbaceous brightness. A perfect finishing touch for this delicious pasta.
• Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Offers a gentle warmth and subtle kick for those who enjoy a little spice. Adjust to your preference.

How to Make High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

Prep Ingredients:

Start by cooking your high protein pasta according to package directions, al dente. While it cooks, dice the onion, mince garlic, and cut broccoli florets. Shred your rotisserie chicken for efficient cooking.

Sauté Aromatics:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic for another minute until fragrant. Add broccoli florets next.

Build Sauce:

Pour in chicken broth and half-and-half, bringing to a gentle simmer. Whisk in softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth. Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to build the creamy foundation for this High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.

Simmer Chicken:

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and half a cup of Parmesan cheese to the simmering sauce. Stir well to combine and let it gently warm through for 2-3 minutes. This brings all the flavors together beautifully for your High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.

Combine Pasta:

Drain the cooked high protein pasta and add it directly to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything gently until the pasta is fully coated and the broccoli is tender-crisp. Ensure even distribution for every delicious bite.

Garnish & Serve:

Remove from heat. Stir in fresh parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve your comforting High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this quick, satisfying meal!

How to Store High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

To store your High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly for 3-4 days to keep it fresh. Don’t leave it out long; a mistake I’ve made! Discard if off smells or mold appear.

For make-ahead, cook pasta, shred chicken, and chop broccoli up to two days in advance. Store components separately and refrigerate. Assemble the dish just before serving for best fresh texture.

Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop. Add a splash of broth to prevent drying.

What to Serve with High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (35-Minute Recipe)

Serve this comforting High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta immediately and hot for the best experience. For a special touch, garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple crisp green salad and a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc to truly enjoy a complete meal.

I personally love to serve this pasta with red pepper flakes for a kick. I always pair it with warm, crusty garlic bread; it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious, creamy sauce. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different vegetables or chicken alternatives in this High Protein Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

Yes! I often swap broccoli for asparagus or peas seasonally to keep it fresh. For chicken, shredded turkey or even chickpeas can work, though the flavor profile will change. Enjoy experimenting!

→ How do I prevent a lumpy sauce when making High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta?

The key is softened, cubed cream cheese and tempering. Whisking cream cheese and Greek yogurt with a splash of warm broth before adding helps create a flawlessly smooth sauce, trust me.

→ Can I make this High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, you can prep components like cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and chopped broccoli up to two days ahead. Store them separately and refrigerate, then assemble just before serving for the best texture.

→ How long does High Protein Chicken Broccoli Pasta last in the refrigerator?

Cooled leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I’ve made the mistake of leaving it out too long, so refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness!

→ Can I easily double or halve this High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales well. Just remember to adjust your pan size accordingly for doubling, and ensure the sauce ingredients are proportionally balanced for the best flavor and consistency.