If you have ever found yourself craving a meal that combines ease, flavor, and pure comfort all in one bowl, this Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, marrying tender shredded rotisserie chicken with a luscious, creamy sauce, vibrant spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is not just about convenience; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly unforgettable, making it your new go-to for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a joy because the ingredients are straightforward yet essential for crafting those layers of flavor and texture that make the dish so delightful. Each ingredient plays its own role—whether bringing richness, freshness, or a burst of color to your plate.
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli): Choose your favorite shape to capture every bit of sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a silky base and richness to the sautéed aromatics.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped): Builds a sweet and savory foundation.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Brings that essential warm and aromatic punch.
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded): The star protein that’s juicy and ready to shine.
- 2 cups baby spinach: For freshness and a lovely pop of green that wilts perfectly.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Sweet and vibrant, they provide bursts of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs to boost the dish’s warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water): Enhances all the flavors, perfectly balanced.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little kick.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Richens the sauce with concentrated tomato flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps the sauce savory and lightens the creaminess just right.
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Creates a luxuriously creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Adds umami and a salty tang.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness): A splash of citrus to lift the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish): Finishing touch with a fresh herbal pop.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water to elevate the pasta’s flavor right from the start. Cook your chosen pasta—penne, rotini, or fusilli—until it’s al dente, giving it that perfect firm bite. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as it’s pure magic for adjusting sauce consistency later on.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics for a Flavorful Base
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion. Let it soften for about 3 to 4 minutes until it turns translucent and sweet. Toss in the minced garlic, cooking just 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring that inviting aroma starts filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Deepen the Sauce with Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for about a minute to develop its rich flavor fully. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. These layers of seasoning create the backbone of the sauce’s irresistible taste.
Step 4: Add the Chicken Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth and gently scrape the bottom of the pan to lift those flavorful browned bits. Let everything simmer for 2 minutes before stirring in the heavy cream or half-and-half to achieve that silky, creamy texture this recipe is famous for.
Step 5: Incorporate Shredded Chicken and Fresh Veggies
Now it’s time for the star ingredient: the shredded rotisserie chicken. Mix in the tender chicken along with the juicy halved cherry tomatoes and vibrant baby spinach. Cook everything on medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes start to soften just right.
Step 6: Bring Cheesy Goodness Into the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and fold in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Stir gently as they melt, transforming the sauce into a rich, cheesy dream that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Finish With A Touch of Brightness
Add your cooked pasta back into the skillet and toss everything together, making sure each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to get the perfect creamy consistency. Finally, turn off the heat, stir in a little lemon juice if you like, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a refreshing finish.
How to Serve Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes when serving this dish. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds brightness, color, and an enticing aroma that makes your Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe glow on the plate.
Side Dishes
This pasta shines beautifully alongside crisp green salads dressed with tangy vinaigrettes or crunchy garlic bread that soaks up every bit of that amazing sauce. Roasted vegetables also make excellent companions, adding extra texture and nutrition for a complete and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in individual mini cocottes or casseroles for a cozy, restaurant-style vibe at home. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or drizzle a bit of chili oil for an unexpected dimension that will impress everyone at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to keep the sauce luscious and avoid any dryness.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, freezing is possible but do note that cream-based sauces may separate slightly. Freeze in a sealed container for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or milk as needed to restore the creamy sauce’s perfect texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating without losing that fresh-from-the-pan taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap mozzarella with fontina, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly depending on the melting properties of the cheese you choose.
Is it okay to use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully here. The rotisserie chicken is convenient because it’s juicy and seasoned, but any shredded cooked chicken you have on hand will make this dish just as tasty.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the veggies. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for extra protein and texture in place of the chicken.
What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Penne, rotini, or fusilli are all excellent choices because their shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful and creamy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time for a meal prep?
You can! Cook and combine everything, then cool and refrigerate. Reheat with some extra broth or milk, and it will taste just as comforting on day two or three—perfect for busy weeks.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried making the Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. It’s a wonderful blend of simplicity, hearty flavors, and comforting textures that you and your loved ones will return to again and again. Trust me, once this creamy, cheesy, and colorful pasta graces your table, it will quickly become one of your favorites too.
Print
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try This Comforting Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a comforting and easy meal that combines tender shredded rotisserie chicken with a creamy tomato-based sauce, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures, enhanced by Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. The recipe is flexible, allowing for ingredient swaps to suit your preferences, making it an irresistible choice for a hearty yet simple pasta meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
Cheeses and Garnishes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside to use later.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet or deep sauté pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and cook constantly for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Then add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using, mixing well.
- Add Chicken Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes. Then stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) to create a creamy sauce base.
- Incorporate Chicken and Vegetables: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
- Melt the Cheeses: Reduce heat to low and add grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until cheeses melt into a creamy sauce.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss well to coat evenly with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Finish and Garnish: Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice for brightness if desired. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- This recipe is highly adaptable; swap baby spinach for kale, add sautéed mushrooms, or mix in peas for added vegetables.
- For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half in place of heavy cream and reduce the amount of mozzarella.
- Increase crushed red pepper flakes for extra spiciness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
