High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta – Easy 35-Minute Dinner

introduction

This high protein rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta is a fast, filling weeknight meal that is ready in about 35 minutes. It uses cooked rotisserie chicken, whole wheat pasta, and broccoli for a balanced dinner with plenty of protein and fiber.​

why make this recipe

• It is a full meal in one pan with lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables.​
• Using rotisserie chicken saves time, so dinner comes together in well under an hour.​
• Simple pantry ingredients make it easy to add to your regular meal rotation.​

how to make High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

You cook the pasta, quickly sauté garlic and broccoli in olive oil, then toss everything with shredded rotisserie chicken and Parmesan cheese. The result is a light, flavorful pasta that feels cozy but still fits a high protein way of eating.​

Ingredients :

• 8 ounces whole wheat short pasta such as penne or rotini.​
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, without skin.​
• 2 cups small broccoli florets, fresh or thawed from frozen.​
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.​
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced.​
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.​
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste.​
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper.​
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional for a bit of heat.​
• Splash of pasta cooking water, as needed to loosen the sauce.​

Directions :

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until just tender, following the package time; scoop out about a cup of the starchy cooking water before draining.​
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat, then add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.​
3. Add the broccoli florets to the pan, season lightly with salt, and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until bright green and just tender.​
4. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and warm it through for 1 to 2 minutes.​
5. Add the drained pasta to the pan, sprinkle over the Parmesan, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, and toss everything together, adding small splashes of pasta water until the sauce lightly coats the pasta.​
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or cheese, then serve hot.​

how to serve High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Serve the pasta straight from the pan while it is hot and the cheese is still melty. A simple side salad or a slice of crusty whole grain bread makes the meal feel complete.

how to store High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Let leftovers cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth, or warm in the microwave, stirring halfway.

tips to make High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

• Cut the broccoli into small, even pieces so it cooks quickly and stays tender-crisp.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
• If the pasta seems dry when reheating, always add a spoon or two of water or broth to bring the sauce back.

variation (if any)

• Swap whole wheat pasta for a high protein lentil or chickpea pasta to increase the protein even more.
• Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or baby spinach at the end for extra color and veggies.
• Stir in a spoon of light cream cheese or plain Greek yogurt for a creamier, richer sauce.

FAQs

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, regular pasta works fine; whole wheat just adds more fiber and a bit more protein.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Any cooked, shredded chicken will work, so use whatever you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?
You can leave out the Parmesan and add a drizzle of olive oil plus nutritional yeast or your favorite dairy free cheese.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, add it straight to the pan from frozen and cook a minute or two longer until heated through and tender

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