Got leftover rotisserie chicken? Turn it into this easy, creamy, and ridiculously satisfying pasta in just 20 minutes! Think tender shredded chicken, a garlicky parmesan cream sauce, and fresh spinach, all tossed with your favorite pasta. Comfort food made easy!
Bonus: This dish is great for meal prep and can be lightened up with a few simple swaps.
Ingredients
✔ 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
✔ 8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or any favorite)
✔ 1 tablespoon butter
✔ 2 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
✔ ½ cup chicken broth
✔ ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
✔ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
✔ ¼ teaspoon black pepper
✔ 2 cups fresh spinach (optional but adds great color & nutrients)
✔ Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 minute.
Step 3: Stir in the Cream & Cheese
Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add the Chicken & Spinach
Toss in shredded rotisserie chicken and let it heat through. Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1 minute until wilted.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Sprinkle with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes, then serve!
Other Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Ideas
✔ Chicken Tacos – Toss shredded chicken with taco seasoning, load into tortillas, and top with avocado and salsa.
✔ Chicken & Rice Soup – Simmer rotisserie chicken with broth, rice, carrots, and celery for a comforting soup.
✔ Buffalo Chicken Wraps – Mix chicken with buffalo sauce, wrap it in a tortilla with ranch, lettuce, and cheese.
✔ Chicken & Veggie Stir-Fry – Sauté chicken with mixed veggies and soy sauce for a quick, healthy meal.
✔ BBQ Chicken Pizza – Spread BBQ sauce on pizza dough, top with chicken, cheese, and red onion, then bake!