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Creamy High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta Recipe Easy and Healthy

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A quick, creamy, and high-protein pasta dish featuring rotisserie chicken and broccoli, perfect for a healthy and satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed for less fat, optional to keep skin for extra flavor)
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 8 ounces (225g) penne or rotini pasta (gluten-free pasta can be used)
  • 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk, whole or 2% (can substitute unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225g) of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup (120ml) of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, chop 2 cups of broccoli into bite-sized pieces. If using fresh, steam or blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Thaw and drain frozen broccoli.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
  4. Add prepared broccoli to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add 4 ounces softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it starts to melt.
  6. Gradually pour in 1 cup milk, whisking to combine and create a smooth sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
  7. Stir in 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Fold in 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken and the drained pasta. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the creamy sauce. Warm through for 1-2 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Optionally, sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs like parsley on top.

Notes

Soften cream cheese before adding to skillet for smooth sauce. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Avoid overcooking broccoli to keep a nice bite. Reheat leftovers gently with a splash of milk or water to loosen sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: rotisserie chicken pasta, creamy chicken pasta, high protein pasta, broccoli pasta, easy dinner, healthy pasta recipe, quick pasta dinner

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/creamy-high-protein-rotisserie-chicken-broccoli-pasta-recipe-easy-and-healthy/