This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta dish is a quick treat! With tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something yummy and satisfying.
The best part? It’s super easy to make, thanks to the store-bought rotisserie chicken. I love tossing in some veggies for extra crunch—it makes me feel fancy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using rotini for its fun shape, but any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle will work. If you prefer whole grain or gluten-free options, those are great substitutes too!
Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and brings great flavor. If you want a healthier option, you can grill or bake your own chicken breasts. Leftover cooked chicken is perfect here as well.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and moisture. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: I love fresh grated Parmesan for the best flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Get the Garlic Just Right?
Cooking garlic can be tricky! You want it aromatic, not burnt. Here’s how to nail it:
- Use medium heat and keep an eye on it; garlic cooks fast!
- Add it to the oil first and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells good, stirring often.
- If it starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat or remove it from the skillet temporarily.
Getting your garlic right enhances the whole dish and really brings out the flavor of the pasta.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 12 oz (340g) rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
Vegetables:
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup marinara or tomato pasta sauce
Cheese and Herbs:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Rotisserie Chicken Pasta can be made in about 30 minutes! You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and cooking the pasta, plus about 15-20 minutes for mixing and heating everything together. So it’s a quick and easy meal for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and burst. This will add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
4. Combine with Sauce:
Stir in your marinara or tomato pasta sauce along with the Italian seasoning if you’re using it. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes to warm through nicely.
5. Mix in Chicken and Pasta:
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken and the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the chicken and pasta are well-coated in the sauce and heated through.
6. Finish with Cheese:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Taste your pasta and season with salt and black pepper to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Dish out the pasta while it’s hot, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Enjoy your warm, comforting meal!
Happy cooking! This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is sure to become a favorite.
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use grilled or baked chicken breasts if you prefer to prepare your own. Leftover roasted chicken works perfectly too. Just shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the pasta.
What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?
If you’re not a fan of marinara, you can use Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a simple olive oil and garlic mixture for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly based on what sauce you choose!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals or warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté them along with the garlic and tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed so they stay crisp-tender!