Creamy Chicken and Rosemary Pasta
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- 8 oz pasta (missing, but easily acquirable)≈ $3.95missing
- 1 tbsp olive oil≈ $0.15
- 1 cup cooked Rotisserie Chicken, shredded≈ $3.50
- 1 clove garlic, minced≈ $0.10
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh)≈ $0.10
- 1/2 cup milk≈ $0.65
- 1 tbsp flour≈ $0.25
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (missing, or use water + bouillon)≈ $0.90
- Salt to taste≈ $0.25
- Pepper to taste≈ $1.10
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)≈ $0.15
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- 2
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- 3
Add shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly browned.
- 4
Add minced garlic and rosemary, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 5
Sprinkle flour over the chicken mixture and stir well. Cook for 1 minute.
- 6
Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth (or water). Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens.
- 7
Season with salt and pepper.
- 8
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
- 9
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
About this recipe
Craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal that comes together in a flash? This creamy chicken and rosemary pasta is your answer. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this Italian-American inspired dish uses readily available ingredients and transforms them into something truly special. Enjoy a rich, herbaceous sauce coating tender pasta and succulent chicken in just about 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
Elevate your dinner routine with this simple yet sophisticated dish. The fragrant rosemary and savory chicken broth create a wonderfully aromatic base, while the touch of creaminess brings it all together. It's a go-to for cozy nights when you want homemade goodness without the fuss, offering a satisfying and delicious experience every time.
The story behind it
The beauty of this type of pasta dish lies in its resourcefulness, a hallmark of Italian-American cooking. Often born from a need to create satisfying family meals with pantry staples and leftover proteins, these recipes evolved to be both economical and deeply flavorful. This particular rendition draws on the classic combination of chicken and herbs, elevated by a simple creamy sauce that feels both indulgent and homey, a true testament to its comforting heritage.
Chef's tips
- 1Toasting the dried rosemary lightly in the olive oil before adding garlic will amplify its aromatic qualities.
- 2For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the milk and broth.
- 3Always reserve a quarter cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- 4Shred the rotisserie chicken while it's still slightly warm for easier handling and a better texture.
- 5If using fresh rosemary, chop it finely to ensure the flavor is well distributed throughout the sauce.
Ways to make it your own
Swap chicken for white beans or pan-seared mushrooms for a hearty meat-free alternative.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle heat that complements the rosemary.
Use a plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to maintain the sauce's creaminess.
Incorporate spinach or cherry tomatoes in the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
Frequently asked
How can I make the sauce thicker?+
You can add a bit more flour to the fat before incorporating liquids, or simmer the sauce a few extra minutes to reduce it.
Can I use raw chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?+
Yes, just dice and cook raw chicken breast or thighs in the pan before adding garlic and other ingredients; this will add about 10-15 minutes to the total cooking time.
What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?+
Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent as they hold the creamy sauce well, but spaghetti or fettuccine can also be used.
Why is my sauce clumpy?+
Clumpy sauce often results from not fully incorporating the flour into the fat before adding liquid, or from adding cold liquid too quickly; whisk vigorously as you add the milk and broth.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?+
You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead and store them separately; combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving to maintain the best texture.