This Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines tender pieces of chicken with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy sauce. Super comforting and easy to make!
You can whip this up with leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a perfect solution for busy weeknights. I love adding some fresh veggies for a burst of color! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its spirals hold onto the sauce beautifully. However, you can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer!
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use grilled chicken breast or even a can of chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought pesto is super convenient, but if you want to make it fresh, blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil. You can also use a sun-dried tomato pesto for a deeper flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: A must for a creamy texture! If you want a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Grana Padano is a good substitute as well.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but it’s all about timing! Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. Here are some tips:
- Check the package for cooking times and set a timer a minute or two early. Taste a piece to see if it’s al dente (cooked but firm).
- Avoid rinsing the pasta after draining. This keeps the starch that helps the sauce stick!
- If you’re worried about overcooking, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. You can use it to help loosen your sauce later.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
For the Dish:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking the pasta and another 10 minutes putting everything together, making it a quick and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. You want it firm but tender!
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 you can smell that delicious aroma. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Chicken:
Now, toss in the shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir it around for about 2-3 minutes until it’s warmed through. This step is all about making sure your chicken is nice and hot!
4. Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to low, then carefully add the pesto sauce and the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the pesto. It’ll look vibrant and yummy!
5. Finish with Cheese & Parsley:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the chopped parsley. If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes, now is the time to fold them in. These will add a lovely sweetness!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your pasta and season it with salt and black pepper to your liking. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy every warm, flavorful bite!
This dish is quick, flavorful, and a great way to use up rotisserie chicken, combined with bright pesto, making it a satisfying pasta meal. Enjoy! 🍝
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto the sauce, feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto on hand, consider using a homemade version with basil, olive oil, nuts, and cheese, or try sun-dried tomato pesto for a different flavor. Alternatively, a simple olive oil and garlic combination works too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to bring it back to life.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers can enhance flavor and nutrition. You can sauté them along with the garlic or toss them in with the chicken for a delicious twist!
