High Protein Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta (Print Version)

High protein creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. Quick and easy weeknight meal packed with flavor and nutrients. Uses pre-cooked chicken for convenience.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American

# Ingredients:

→ The Hearty Foundation

01 - 12 oz high-protein pasta (e.g., chickpea, lentil, or whole wheat penne)
02 - 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed)

→ Velvety Dream Sauce

03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 4 oz light cream cheese, softened
07 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 1/2 cup 2% milk
09 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Garden Freshness & Flavor Boosters

10 - 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 lb)
11 - 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
12 - 1/2 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
13 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
14 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz high-protein pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, add 4 cups broccoli florets to the pot. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water.
02 - While pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Add 4 oz light cream cheese, softened, 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, and 1/2 cup 2% milk to the skillet. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
04 - Add 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (skin removed), the drained pasta, and broccoli to the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly. If the sauce is too thick for your High Protein Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
05 - Season the High Protein Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, allowing flavors to meld.
06 - Remove the High Protein Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta from heat. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Serve immediately and enjoy this satisfying, protein-packed High Protein Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta.

# Notes:

01 - For extra creaminess, use full-fat cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream instead of light cream cheese and 2% milk.
02 - Store any leftover High Protein Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
03 - Feel free to substitute the broccoli with other quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, peas, or asparagus during the last few minutes of pasta cooking.
04 - A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can brighten the flavors just before serving.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 - Cutting board
04 - Chef's knife
05 - Measuring cups and spoons
06 - Grater
07 - Spatula

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 690 kcal
Total Fat: 18 g
Total Carbohydrate: 72 g
Protein: 59 g