Save This High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a wholesome and efficient weeknight dinner. Bright broccoli florets and juicy shredded rotisserie chicken swim in a silky Greek yogurt sauce, accented by aromatic garlic, fresh lemon zest, and savory Parmesan. Using whole-wheat penne transforms this simple skillet dish into a satisfying, protein-rich meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Save The secret to this dish's richness without the heavy cream lies in the combination of Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. These ingredients create a velvety texture that perfectly coats the ridges of the penne, while the lemon juice and zest provide a bright finish that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole-wheat penne or fusilli pasta
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (white and dark meat mixed)
- ½ cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnishing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil Pasta and Broccoli
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole-wheat pasta and cook for 7 minutes. At minute 5, add the broccoli florets so both finish cooking together. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using); sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gradually add reserved pasta water, a few tablespoons at a time, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: Combine Components
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken, cooked pasta, and broccoli to the pot. Gently toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add another splash of pasta water.
- Step 5: Final Seasoning
- Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Divide pasta among bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using whole-wheat pasta and Greek yogurt adds extra fiber and protein without extra fat. To ensure the sauce stays silky, keep the heat low when mixing the dairy components to prevent curdling.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute cauliflower florets or green peas for broccoli if desired. For even more protein, stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides or top with toasted hemp seeds for extra crunch.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this dish warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of water to revive the creamy sauce.
Save This High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a testament to how simple ingredients like yogurt, lemon, and garlic can create a gourmet-style meal in under 25 minutes. It is a perfect solution for busy evenings when you need a nutritious, high-protein dinner without the fuss.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use regular pasta instead of whole-wheat?
Yes, regular penne or fusilli works perfectly. The cooking time may vary slightly—check the package directions and add broccoli during the last 2 minutes of boiling.
- → Is the Greek yogurt sauce safe from curdling?
The key is keeping the heat at medium-low when adding yogurt and cottage cheese. Stirring constantly and gradually incorporating pasta water helps maintain a smooth, creamy consistency without separating.
- → What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
Leftover cooked chicken breasts, thighs, or even turkey work well. For a vegetarian version, swap in white beans, chickpeas, or additional vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the sauce, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
- → Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely. Portion into individual containers and refrigerate. The flavors meld beautifully overnight. Add a teaspoon of water when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
- → Is this freezer-friendly?
While possible, freezing may slightly alter the sauce texture. If freezing, undercook the pasta by 1 minute and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.