Save Bright broccoli florets and juicy rotisserie chicken swim in a silky Greek yogurt sauce, accented by garlic, lemon zest, and Parmesan. Whole-wheat penne turns this simple skillet dish into a satisfying, protein-rich meal that comes together in just over 20 minutes.
Save This recipe is designed for those busy evenings when you want a home-cooked meal that is both healthy and filling. By leveraging pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and cooking the broccoli right in the pasta water, you save precious minutes and reduce the number of pots to scrub.
Ingredients
- Pasta & Vegetables: 12 ounces whole-wheat penne or fusilli pasta, 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- Protein: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (white and dark meat mixed)
- Sauce: 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)
- Garnish: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, Extra grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- Stir in grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 6
- Divide pasta among bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the sauce remains smooth, keep the heat on medium-low when adding the dairy. If the heat is too high, the Greek yogurt may separate. Always reserve more pasta water than you think you need; it is the secret to emulsifying the cottage cheese and yogurt into a restaurant-quality glaze.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily substitute cauliflower florets or green peas for the broccoli. For those looking to maximize their protein intake, consider stirring in a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides or topping the finished dish with a tablespoon of toasted hemp seeds.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this steaming skillet pasta with a wedge of lemon on the side to brighten the flavors just before eating. A light arugula salad with a balsamic vinaigrette complements the creamy texture of the pasta perfectly.
Save With 561 calories and 42 grams of protein per serving, this High Protein Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta is a balanced powerhouse. It proves that quick, easy dinners can be both nutritious and incredibly satisfying for the whole family.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different vegetables in this dish?
Yes, cauliflower florets or green peas make excellent substitutes for broccoli in this preparation, or you can mix and match your favorites.
- → How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be kept refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help revive the sauce's creamy texture, gently warming it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- → What if I don't have rotisserie chicken available?
You can use any pre-cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh. Simply poach or bake chicken until cooked through, then shred it for this meal.
- → How can I adjust the sauce consistency?
To thicken the sauce, use less reserved pasta water. To thin it, gradually add an extra splash of pasta water, milk, or chicken broth until your desired creamy consistency is achieved.
- → Are there ways to boost the protein content even further?
For an additional protein boost, you can stir in a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides with the sauce, or top your individual serving with toasted hemp seeds.
- → Is this a good meal for meal prepping?
Absolutely. This dish holds well for a few days in the refrigerator, making it a convenient and nutritious option for meal prepping healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.