Easy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe
Easy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe
When you need a comforting, family-friendly dinner that comes together in minutes, this creamy rotisserie chicken pasta is your perfect solution. Using store-bought rotisserie chicken makes this dish incredibly quick while delivering that slow-roasted flavor everyone loves. This one-pot creamy pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2 minutes to warm through.
Step 4: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Add frozen peas and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Expert Tips
- Pasta Water Secret: The starchy pasta water helps create a silky, restaurant-quality sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta
- Chicken Texture: Shred the chicken while still warm for the most tender results
- Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream
- Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition
- Freezer Friendly: This pasta freezes beautifully for quick meals later
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! This recipe works perfectly with any cooked chicken – roasted, grilled, or boiled.
How long does this pasta keep in the refrigerator?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to refresh the creamy sauce.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
What other cheeses work well?
Fontina, Asiago, or Gruyère make excellent alternatives to Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Easy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2 minutes to warm through.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add frozen peas and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
