This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a warm, comforting dish that’s super easy to make! With tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, it’s like a hug in a bowl.
You can have dinner on the table in no time, which is perfect for busy nights. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the dish! It adds flavor and saves time. If you don’t have one, you can use leftover cooked chicken or even grilled chicken breast. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy mixing.
Pasta: I love using rotini because its twists hold onto the creamy sauce. However, any pasta works! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will do. If you’re gluten-free, you can find great gluten-free pasta options.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They give a wonderful burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, try using fresh tomatoes or cherry tomatoes sautéed until tender. You might miss some tartness, but they’ll still work well!
Heavy Cream: It makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter option, or even use coconut cream for a dairy-free version—it will add a unique flavor!
How Do I Bring Out the Best Flavor in My Pasta Dish?
Cooking good pasta can make a huge difference in your dish! First, always salt your boiling water—it should be as salty as the sea for the best flavor. Then, cook until al dente for the right bite in your mouth.
- Once drained, toss the pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- When sautéing garlic, take care not to burn it. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute) for the best taste.
- Mix well – when combining the pasta with the sauce and chicken, make sure every piece is coated for even flavors in each bite!
Enjoy your cooking, and remember that a little practice goes a long way!
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any pasta of choice)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Rotisserie Chicken Pasta takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, meaning it’s still firm when bitten but cooked through. Drain the pasta and set it aside for now.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook gently for about 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it has a creamy texture.
5. Mix in Cheese:
Now, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the sauce continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Chicken:
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet, tossing it well to coat in the creamy sauce and letting it warm up for a couple of minutes.
7. Finish with Pasta and Parsley:
Finally, add the cooked pasta and chopped parsley to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce and heated through.
8. Season & Serve:
Season your lovely dish with salt, pepper, and if you’d like a little kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese if you desire. Enjoy!
This rich and flavorful Rotisserie Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken with creamy, herby goodness and a hint of sun-dried tomatoes, making it a comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pasta Sauce Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can replace the homemade creamy sauce with your favorite store-bought pasta sauce. Just heat it in the pan before adding the chicken and pasta for a quick meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. Sauté them with the garlic before adding the sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor.
What Other Proteins Can I Use Instead of Chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded turkey or even diced sausage can work well! You can also try a vegetarian version by using chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.