This Quick Rotisserie Chicken Pasta is a lifesaver for busy nights! It combines tender rotisserie chicken, pasta, and your favorite veggies in a creamy sauce that’s super comforting.
Don’t you just love a meal that can be made in a flash? I usually toss in whatever veggies I have on hand, and it always turns out yummy. Plus, who doesn’t love less cooking time? 🙌
For an easy dinner, this dish is unbeatable. Just mix everything together in one pot and let it bubble away. Dinner is served in no time, and you get all the smiles at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti or Preferred Pasta: Spaghetti is great, but any pasta you have on hand works! Try penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just remember to cook it until al dente; this gives the best texture.
Rotisserie Chicken: This is a time-saver! You can also use leftover chicken or turkey if you have some. For a vegetarian twist, try chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor. If you can’t find them, substitute with diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.Â
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor. If you’re low on it, feel free to use vegetable or canola oil, though the flavor might be less robust.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil provides a lovely aroma. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil works in a pinch; just reduce the amount since it’s stronger. Some people like to use spinach or arugula for a different green touch!
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic is key for flavor, but it can burn quickly. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep the heat on medium; too high can scorch the garlic.
- Use a good quality olive oil for better flavor.
- Add the garlic once the oil is warmed but not smoking.
- Watch it closely, stirring often, for about 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. If it starts to turn brown, lower the heat!
Burnt garlic can ruin the dish, so patience is key!
How to Make Quick Rotisserie Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or your preferred pasta
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10-12 minutes cooking the pasta and another 8-10 minutes preparing the sauce. Easy to whip up for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the spaghetti or your chosen pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Don’t forget to reserve a little bit of that pasta water for later!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is warm, add the minced garlic. SautĂ© it for about 1-2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant—be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their juices. This will add a lovely flavor to the dish!
4. Incorporate the Chicken:
Now, add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet. Stir it in and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is heated through. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken!
5. Combine Pasta with Chicken and Tomatoes:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss everything together so the pasta is well coated with the chicken and tomato mixture. If it seems a bit dry, splash in a little of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
6. Finish with Basil and Cheese:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the pasta with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Mix everything together until well combined and heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the pasta immediately on plates or in bowls. If you want to make it extra special, garnish with more fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Dig in and enjoy your quick and tasty meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Replace the Rotisserie Chicken With?
If you don’t have rotisserie chicken on hand, you can use any cooked chicken you have, such as grilled or baked chicken. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, you could substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for added flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of olive oil or a little water in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the garlic and cherry tomatoes to ensure they cook down nicely and blend well with the pasta.
