This rotisserie chicken pasta is a quick and tasty meal for busy days! It features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and your favorite pasta, all mixed together for a cozy dinner.
One of my favorite parts? It saves cooking time since I use store-bought rotisserie chicken! Perfect for when you want something hearty and don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I use penne or cavatappi for this dish. Both have great textures that hold onto the sauce. If you’re gluten-free, consider using gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a time-saver! You can use leftover roasted chicken or shredded turkey if rotisserie isn’t available. It’s all about ease and enjoying the meal!
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh or slightly roasted tomatoes add a burst of flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can be a good alternative.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. You can substitute with half-and-half or even a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegan option.
Pesto: Basil pesto is great, but you can switch it up with sun-dried tomato pesto or a homemade version if you want to customize it. This is a versatile ingredient!
How Do I Perfectly Combine the Creamy Sauce with the Pasta?
Getting the sauce just right is key to a delicious rotisserie chicken pasta. After you make the sauce, it’s essential to mix it with the pasta properly.
- Make sure the pasta is hot when adding to the sauce. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Use tongs to gently toss the pasta with the creamy sauce. This method ensures each piece is well coated.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out—a little goes a long way!
- Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper before serving to make sure every bite is flavorful.
With these tips, you’ll ensure your pasta and sauce have great flavor and texture, making for a delightful meal every time!
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or cavatappi pasta
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce (basil pesto)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the other ingredients, and then another 15-20 minutes combining everything in the skillet. It’s a quick meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes. You want them to soften a bit but still keep their shape.
4. Warm the Chicken:
Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and let it warm through for another 2 minutes, mixing it well with the tomatoes and garlic.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, which will make a rich sauce.
6. Combine with Cheese and Pesto:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and pesto sauce into the skillet. Stir until everything is completely and deliciously combined. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Toss with Pasta:
Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Using tongs, gently toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and chicken mixture.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for that perfect finishing touch. Serve your delicious rotisserie chicken pasta immediately!
With the creamy pesto sauce clinging to the tender pasta and juicy chicken, this dish makes for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken Instead of Rotisserie?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken or even turkey can be used in this recipe. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the skillet.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that the texture and richness will differ slightly.
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 stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the pasta seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Tofu would also be a great protein alternative!
