This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender chicken, pasta, and a flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
If you’re like me, you might love using leftover rotisserie chicken. It makes dinner super fast, and who doesn’t enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss? Plus, it’s so good! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the dish! It’s cooked and flavored perfectly, making your job much easier. If you’re in a pinch, you can use any cooked chicken, or even store-bought shredded chicken.
Rotini Pasta: I love rotini for its shape which holds sauce well. But don’t hesitate to swap it for penne, fusilli, or any other favorite short pasta you have at home!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a lovely tang! If you don’t have them, diced fresh tomatoes or even roasted red peppers could work as good substitutes.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or a plant-based cream (like coconut cream) can be used instead.
Parmesan Cheese: It gives a nice salty flavor. In case of an absence, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option will also be great.
How Do I Cook the Pasta Perfectly?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but getting it just right makes a big difference! Here are some tips:
- Always use a large pot with plenty of water; it helps prevent sticking.
- Salt the water generously; it should taste like the sea! This adds flavor right to the pasta.
- Follow package instructions carefully for cooking time. Set a timer to prevent overcooking.
- Once the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite), drain it immediately but don’t rinse; you want the starch for the sauce!
By following these steps, you’ll have perfect pasta that pairs wonderfully with your delicious sauce! Enjoy your cooking adventure! 🌟
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 10 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Rotisserie Chicken Pasta takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook! It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving something hearty and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. When it’s ready, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the skillet. Let them cook for around 2 minutes to blend their flavor with the garlic.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to create the creamy sauce! Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and basil pesto. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 2-3 minutes. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully!
5. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and drained pasta right into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
6. Add Cheese and Parsley:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Give it a taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Yum!
7. Heat Through:
Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes on low heat until everything is heated through—this step makes sure it’s nice and warm for serving!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Rotisserie Chicken Pasta right away! You can garnish each plate with extra parsley and Parmesan cheese for a lovely finishing touch. Enjoy your delicious, creamy meal!
This pasta dish blends the tasty convenience of rotisserie chicken with rich pesto and creamy Parmesan, making it a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding the sauce, feel free to substitute it with any other short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions!
Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
Yes! You can lighten it up by using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cream, and reducing the amount of cheese. Additionally, you could add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Use Homemade Pesto Instead of Store-Bought?
Definitely! Homemade pesto can add a fresher taste to the dish. If you have a favorite recipe, go ahead and use it! Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.