If you are craving a meal that perfectly balances comfort, speed, and flavor, this Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, shredded rotisserie chicken mingling with baby spinach and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed with penne pasta in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a wholesome, satisfying dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an unbeatable option for busy weeknights or whenever you want something special with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating this delightful Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, whether it adds creaminess, freshness, or a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:
- 8 ounces penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto that creamy sauce and bits of chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Brings a subtle fruity richness and is the base for sautéing.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds fragrant depth that awakens the whole dish.
- 1 small onion (diced): Builds a mild sweetness and texture contrast.
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken (shredded): The star protein, tender and flavorful without any extra cooking hassle.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Bursts of juicy sweetness and bright color.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, indulgent sauce that coats everything beautifully.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, savory depth and thickens the sauce naturally.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick that wakes up the palate.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh herbal finish and inviting aroma.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, so it has a slight bite to hold up in the creamy sauce. Drain it well and set it aside; this patience here will pay off with the perfect pasta texture.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, letting them soften and release their wonderful flavors until translucent and fragrant — about 3 to 4 minutes. This builds a flavorful foundation that makes this Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe extra delicious.
Step 3: Add and Heat Chicken
Toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken, stirring it into the softened onions and garlic. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, just enough to heat through and marry the flavors without drying the chicken out.
Step 4: Cook Tomatoes and Spinach
Add in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften and release their sweetness, approximately 3 minutes. Then stir in the baby spinach and cook until it wilts down, folding vibrant color and fresh green notes into the dish.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, letting it melt to thicken the sauce naturally. Don’t forget to add red pepper flakes if you want a hint of heat, and season it all with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to perfectly balance the flavors.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss thoroughly, ensuring every piece is luxuriously coated in the creamy sauce loaded with chicken, veggies, and savory goodness. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm everything together for a comforting finish.
How to Serve Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped basil or parsley on top brings brightness and a touch of herbal freshness that brightens the creamy richness. It’s a simple step that transforms this dish from tasty to restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or some crunchy garlic bread that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Neither will overpower your Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe but will complement its creamy textures perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this pasta in individual shallow bowls that show off the vibrant colors and textures. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top or drizzle a bit of good-quality olive oil for added shine and flavor. For a fun twist, add toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of chili flakes at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners without losing that creamy comfort.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but because of the cream sauce and spinach, the texture might slightly change upon thawing. Use a freezer-safe container, and try to consume it within one month for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of milk or cream to refresh the sauce and keep it silky smooth. Avoid microwaving at high heat for best results.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully because it holds sauce well, other short pastas like rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli will also be delicious in this Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter dish; however, the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit more Parmesan can help thicken the sauce.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers can add extra flavor and texture. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic in step 2 for best integration.
How spicy is this pasta?
The red pepper flakes are optional and add just a subtle hint of heat. You can omit them completely if you prefer a mild dish or add more for a spicier kick.
Is this recipe suitable for leftover rotisserie chicken?
This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe is actually perfect for using up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a convenient and delicious way to transform leftovers into a brand new meal.
Final Thoughts
This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe is a beautiful balance of comforting, creamy textures with vibrant, fresh flavors that truly make it a weeknight superstar. It’s quick, easy, and satisfies just about any craving with minimal prep and maximum love. I can’t wait for you to try it and keep it in your regular rotation for those busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without any fuss.
Print
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that combines tender penne pasta with savory shredded rotisserie chicken, fresh spinach, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. Enhanced with garlic, onions, cherry tomatoes, and a touch of red pepper flakes, this easy stovetop recipe is perfect for using leftover chicken and comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, approximately 3 minutes.
- Wilt Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and cook until wilted.
- Make Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Final Warm-Up: Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.
- Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor variation.
- This recipe is excellent for using up leftover rotisserie chicken.
