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Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: The recipe suggests rotini, penne, or farfalle, but you can use any pasta you have on hand. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta is a great alternative for those seeking healthier options or those with dietary restrictions.

Rotisserie Chicken: This is a time-saver and great for meal prep! If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, any cooked chicken works. Grilled or baked chicken is also tasty – just shred it to match the texture.

Bacon: I love the crispy touch bacon adds, but feel free to substitute turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter dish. For a vegetarian option, try sautéed mushrooms for that savory flavor.

Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative. Be cautious as this might change the taste, but the dish will still be creamy!

Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme. It’s a very flexible recipe, so adjust according to your taste.

How Do I Get the Sauce to Thicken Perfectly?

Thickening your sauce ensures a creamy texture that coats the pasta well. The key is simmering. After adding the broth and cream, let it gently bubble for about 3-4 minutes.

• Keep the heat medium to prevent burning.
• Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
• If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer or add more cheese to help thicken.

Remember, the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, so don’t be afraid to adjust as needed!

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Pasta Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (e.g., rotini, penne, or farfalle)
• 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Cooking Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish takes about 20 minutes total, including prep and cooking time. It’s a quick meal perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your pasta of choice and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Garlic:

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute, until it becomes fragrant. Just be careful not to burn it!

3. Make the Creamy Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

4. Season the Sauce:

Add the Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer the sauce for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. This step helps create that rich creamy consistency.

5. Add Chicken and Cheese:

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken to the skillet, along with half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together so the chicken gets heated through and coated in the sauce.

6. Combine with Pasta:

Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, you can add a splash more of chicken broth or cream.

7. Add Bacon:

Carefully mix in the crumbled bacon to add that delicious crunch and flavor to your pasta.

8. Serve and Garnish:

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your rich, creamy, and herb-infused rotisserie chicken pasta!

Dig in and savor every bite! 😊

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you have on hand, such as spaghetti, fusilli, or bow tie. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

What If I Don’t Have Rotisserie Chicken?

If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, feel free to use any cooked chicken you have, such as grilled or baked chicken. Just ensure it’s shredded or diced to mix well with the pasta.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave. You might add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the chicken and bacon, and consider adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.