This Garlic & Herb Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a fantastic way to transform leftover chicken into a mouthwatering dinner. The combination of olive oil, butter, and garlic forms a savory sauce that coats each piece of pasta and chicken with rich, aromatic flavors. Perfect for a quick and easy meal, this pasta dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. With a sprinkle of fresh parsley and parmesan cheese, it’s a comfort food classic that the whole family will love.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken (about ½ rotisserie)
- ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or ground black pepper)
- ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley (or 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. A couple of minutes before draining, add the chopped chicken to the pasta to heat it through. Drain and return to the pot.
- Make the sauce: In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the olive oil, butter, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is golden and fragrant (but not burned). If using Italian seasoning, add it now to soften the flavors. Turn off the heat.
- Combine and serve: Pour the garlic sauce over the pasta, add the parsley and parmesan cheese, and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 583 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Why Garlic & Herb Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a Hit
1. Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the primary advantages of this recipe is its speed. Ready in just 20 minutes, this pasta is the perfect solution when you’re pressed for time but still want to prepare a home-cooked meal. The secret is using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, which is not only flavorful but also convenient. This allows you to cut down on prep time while still offering a dish that tastes fresh and vibrant.
2. Flavor-Packed and Family-Friendly:
The blend of garlic and herbs with olive oil and butter creates a pasta sauce that is both aromatic and flavorful. The garlic brings a sharp, pungent taste, softened by the richness of butter and the earthiness of olive oil. The herbs—whether you use fresh parsley, thyme, basil, or a mix of Italian seasonings—infuse the pasta with a delightful aroma and taste. The rotisserie chicken, being pre-seasoned and tender, melds perfectly with the sauce, adding protein and heartiness to the dish.
The combination of familiar flavors also makes this pasta very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the mix of tender chicken, garlicky pasta, and the comforting, herbaceous sauce that ties it all together.
3. Perfect Use for Leftover Chicken:
Often, there are times when we have leftover rotisserie chicken in the fridge, not enough to make a full meal on its own but too much to discard. This recipe is the perfect solution for those instances. It stretches a small amount of chicken to feed the whole family while turning leftovers into something entirely new and exciting.
Tips for Making the Best Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
1. Use Quality Ingredients:
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, which means that each ingredient shines through. Opt for a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors of the sauce. Fresh garlic cloves will always offer more flavor than pre-minced or jarred garlic, and fresh herbs add a brightness to the dish that dried versions can’t quite match. However, if you’re in a pinch, dried herbs will still give you the classic flavor.
2. Pasta Cooking Tips:
For a perfect pasta dish, it’s crucial to cook your pasta al dente. This means that the pasta should still have a slight bite to it when you drain it. It’s best to undercook the pasta by a minute or two, as it will continue to cook slightly once tossed with the hot garlic butter sauce.
3. Customize the Heat Level:
The red pepper flakes in the sauce add a touch of heat, which can be adjusted according to your taste. If you prefer a mild flavor, use ground black pepper or reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For those who like a little spice, add extra flakes or even a dash of cayenne for a spicier kick.
4. Boost the Flavor with Extra Add-Ins:
While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, there are endless possibilities for customization. Adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the sauce will add color and nutrients. Sundried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or even mushrooms can bring in more texture and flavor. For a zestier taste, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving adds a bright, tangy note.
5. Choose the Right Cheese:
Parmesan cheese is the go-to option for this recipe as it melts beautifully into the pasta, adding a slightly salty and nutty flavor. However, you can also experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or even a sprinkle of mozzarella if you prefer a creamier finish.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
1. Pairing with Sides:
While Garlic & Herb Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, adding a side dish can elevate your dinner. Fresh salads are a great complement, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. A Bruschetta Salad with tomatoes, basil, and a light balsamic dressing is a classic choice. For a heartier side, try roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers, which will add more flavor and nutrition to your meal.
If you’re looking for something warm and comforting, steamed green beans or sautéed broccoli are excellent choices. For a touch of sophistication, garlic bread or a crusty baguette on the side will complete the meal and allow everyone to enjoy the delicious garlic sauce to the last drop.
2. Making it a Balanced Meal:
This pasta dish is a well-rounded meal with carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. To boost its nutritional content, add in some fresh vegetables or serve with a green side salad. By incorporating veggies, lean protein, and whole grains, you ensure that your family gets a meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Variations and Adaptability
1. Swap the Pasta Shape:
Penne is the recommended pasta shape for this recipe, as its hollow structure holds the sauce and chicken perfectly. However, this dish is highly versatile, and you can swap in your favorite pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle. If you prefer long pasta, fettuccine or spaghetti can be excellent choices too.
2. Gluten-Free and Dietary Variations:
If you or someone in your family is gluten intolerant, this recipe can easily be adapted to be gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free, so the only modification needed is the pasta type. You can also adjust the ingredients to suit other dietary needs, such as using dairy-free butter and cheese substitutes to make the recipe dairy-free.
3. Protein Alternatives:
Although rotisserie chicken is the star protein of this dish, you can easily swap it out for other options. Grilled shrimp, sautéed turkey slices, or leftover steak slices would be delicious substitutes. For a vegetarian version, leave out the chicken and add extra veggies or plant-based protein like chickpeas or white beans to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Conclusion:
Garlic & Herb Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a recipe that every home cook should have in their repertoire. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with fresh flavors, and offers plenty of room for creativity and customization. Whether you’re looking to make the most of leftover rotisserie chicken, need a quick weeknight dinner, or want to impress your family with a flavorful pasta dish, this recipe has you covered.
The combination of olive oil, butter, garlic, and herbs creates a simple yet luxurious sauce that clings to every strand of pasta and every piece of tender chicken. Paired with a side salad or roasted vegetables, this meal is balanced, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you want to make something quick, delicious, and sure to be loved by everyone at the table.
