Hearty High Protein Creamy Chicken Broccoli Pasta (Print Version)

Whip up this high protein creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta for a comforting, quick weeknight dinner. Loaded with flavor and easy to make!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American Comfort
Dietary: High Protein

# Ingredients:

→ Pasta & Protein Base

01 - 12 oz short-cut pasta (like rotini or penne)
02 - 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
03 - 2 cups broccoli florets

→ Creamy Sauce Essentials

04 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
05 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
06 - 2 cups whole milk
07 - 1 cup chicken broth
08 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
09 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Seasoning Staples

10 - 1 tsp garlic powder
11 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
12 - Salt to taste
13 - Black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get a big pot of water boiling for your pasta. Don't forget to salt it generously – this is where I always forget, and my pasta ends up a bit sad! While that's heating up, chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets. Once the water is at a rolling boil, add your pasta and cook according to package directions, but aim for al dente. About 3-4 minutes before the pasta is done, toss in the broccoli florets. This way, they'll be perfectly tender-crisp, not mushy. Drain well, reserving about a cup of pasta water, and set aside.
02 - While the pasta is cooking, go ahead and shred that beautiful rotisserie chicken. I usually just use my hands, it’s quicker and honestly, a little therapeutic. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will mix well into the pasta. You want enough chicken so that every forkful of this high protein creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta gets a good chunk. Sometimes I end up with a bit more than I planned, but hey, extra protein, right?
03 - In a large skillet or Dutch oven (the same one you’ll mix everything in, because fewer dishes!), melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about a minute. You’re making a roux here, and it should smell a little nutty. This is where the magic begins for our high protein creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. Don't let it brown too much, just a light golden color.
04 - Slowly, gradually, whisk in the milk, then the chicken broth. Keep whisking to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it thicken slightly. Then, add the cream cheese. Stir constantly until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and luscious. This step is key for that signature creaminess! It should feel silky and luxurious, making you want to just dip a spoon in.
05 - Now for the flavor! Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, a good pinch of salt, and a generous crack of black pepper. Taste it! Does it need more salt? A little more pepper? Adjust to your liking. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted and incorporated. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, smelling absolutely divine with that cheesy, savory aroma.
06 - Finally, add the drained pasta, broccoli, and shredded chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until every strand of pasta, every floret of broccoli, and every piece of chicken is coated in that glorious high protein creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta sauce. If the sauce seems a little too thick, add a splash or two of that reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve immediately and enjoy the pure comfort!

# Notes:

01 - Always salt your pasta water generously; it's the only chance to season the pasta itself.
02 - Reheat leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess; microwaving can make the sauce separate.
03 - Any short-cut pasta works, but rotini or penne are fantastic for catching all the sauce.
04 - Serve with a simple side salad and crusty garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - large skillet or Dutch oven
03 - whisk

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 650
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 55g
Protein: 45g

Back