This savory Giada fusilli with chicken and broccoli rabe is such a comforting treat. I make it with ingredients like broccoli rabe, fusilli, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, and the flavors come together so perfectly. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is actually super simple to prepare.

It takes about 25 minutes to make, and it’s perfect for when I want to serve something that’s both delicious and satisfying. Plus, it makes enough for 4 servings, so there’s plenty to share!

Recipe Ingredients

• 1 bunch of broccoli rabe, cut into 1-inch pieces
• ½ pound regular or gluten-free fusilli
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, sliced
• 1 shallot, sliced
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or about half a rotisserie chicken, shredded)
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, plus more for serving

How To Make Giada fusilli with chicken and broccoli rabe

Cook Your Pasta

1. Boil and Blanch: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch broccoli rabe for 1 minute, then remove with a skimmer. Add pasta, cook 2 minutes less than package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Make the Flavor Base

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add garlic, shallot, ¼ teaspoon salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook 2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant.
2. Add Chicken: Stir in shredded chicken, coating it with the flavorful oil and spices.

Combine Everything

1. Wilting Greens: Add broccoli rabe and remaining ¼ teaspoon salt to skillet. Cook 2 minutes, stirring, until greens start to wilt. Continue cooking 2 more minutes until tender.
2. Toss Together: Add cooked pasta and Parmigiano to skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a light sauce. Season to taste.

Recipe Tips

• Vegetarian Delight: Turn this dish into a hearty vegetarian meal by swapping the chicken with roasted eggplant or zucchini. Simply dice the vegetables, toss with olive oil, and roast until tender before adding to the pasta.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic and onion mixture for a subtle kick of heat. This small addition enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the components separately up to a day in advance. Cook the pasta, roast the chicken, and blanch the broccoli rabe, then combine just before serving for a fresh, vibrant meal.
• Pasta Perfection: Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne or farfalle for a fun twist. The sauce coats tubular or shaped pasta beautifully, adding texture to each bite.
• Brighten It Up: Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of lemon zest. This adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Check out More Giada Recipes:

• Giada Detox Soup
• Giada De Laurentiis Classic Basil Pesto
• Giada De Laurentiis Apricot Oat Bars