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Easy One-Pan College Pasta with Rotisserie Chicken

Easy One-Pan College Pasta with Rotisserie Chicken - featured image

A quick and comforting one-pan pasta dish featuring shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (white and dark meat mixed)
  • 8 ounces penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Shred about 2 cups of rotisserie chicken, mince 3 garlic cloves, finely chop 1 small onion, and measure out all liquids and pasta (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat in a large deep skillet. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and soft, stirring occasionally.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in 3 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with juices. Stir to combine.
  5. Add 8 ounces uncooked pasta, distributing evenly in the pan.
  6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover with a lid. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
  7. Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
  8. Remove from heat and let pasta sit covered for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

Stir often to prevent pasta from sticking. Use room temperature chicken for best texture. Adjust seasoning at the end to avoid over-salting. If sauce is too thick, add broth or water; if too thin, cook uncovered briefly to reduce. Non-stick pans ease cleanup; stainless steel pans can add a nice sear if crisping chicken bits.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan pasta, rotisserie chicken, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, creamy pasta, weeknight meal