Rotisserie Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe makes dinner feel homemade while saving me so much time. Using rotisserie chicken means I skip cooking the protein from scratch, and the pasta absorbs all the flavors from the sauce beautifully. It’s perfect for weeknights when I want something cozy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz pasta of choice (penne, rotini, or spaghetti)

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)

• 1 cup baby spinach (optional)

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. I cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. I reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, I warm the olive oil or butter, then sauté the onion for about 3 minutes until softened.

3. I add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. I stir in the cherry tomatoes (if using) and cook until they begin to soften.

5. I add the shredded chicken to the skillet and toss to combine.

6. I pour in the cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

7. I add the cooked pasta and spinach (if using), tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, I use some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

8. I season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 20–25 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

I sometimes swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt to make it lighter. For extra flavor, I add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or a splash of white wine to the sauce. If I want more protein, I stir in cooked bacon or chickpeas.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the pasta gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce smooth. The microwave works too but can slightly dry out the pasta.

FAQs

Can I Use Whole Wheat Or Gluten-Free Pasta?

Yes, I often use whole wheat for extra fiber or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

Can I Make This Without Cream?

Yes, I use chicken broth with a bit of cornstarch to thicken, or I substitute milk for a lighter version.

How Do I Make It Spicier?

I add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce for extra heat.

Can I Add More Vegetables?

Definitely—zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers work beautifully in this pasta.

Is This Good For Meal Prep?

Yes, it reheats well for up to 3 days and makes a great lunch option.

Conclusion

I find this rotisserie chicken pasta to be the perfect balance of convenience and comfort. It’s creamy, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable, making it a staple in my weeknight dinner rotation. Every bite feels like it took hours to prepare, even though it comes together in just minutes.