Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in this comforting and creamy chicken pot pie pasta that brings the classic flavors of pot pie into a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for family dinners!
This creamy chicken pot pie pasta combines the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with pasta, making it a quick and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich flavor that comforts the soul
- Easy to make and ready in under an hour
- Great for using up leftover chicken or turkey
- Perfect for cozy family dinners
The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals
There's something truly special about home-cooked meals that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a wonderful way to bring the flavors of a classic pot pie into a pasta dish, making it a comforting option for any family dinner. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It's the perfect way to reconnect with loved ones over a delicious meal.
Moreover, this recipe allows you to enjoy the essence of chicken pot pie without the fuss of making a traditional crust. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, ensuring every bite is satisfying and full of flavor. In just under an hour, you can whip up this delightful dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners with the family.
A Versatile Recipe
One of the best aspects of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey, this dish is an excellent way to utilize those leftovers, reducing food waste while creating a new family favorite. You can also switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand—broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers work wonderfully in this creamy concoction.
In addition, this recipe is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store individual portions in the refrigerator or freezer for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy a comforting meal any time, making it a practical choice for those with busy schedules.
Serving Suggestions
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Mix all ingredients well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat. Gradually add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta and mix well to combine.
Add Cheese and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Enjoy your creamy chicken pot pie pasta with a side salad or crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Pasta
Cooking pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. Be sure to follow the package instructions, but keep in mind that pasta continues to cook slightly even after draining. Aim for a firm bite, as it will absorb some of the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. A splash of olive oil in the cooking water can also help prevent the pasta from sticking together.
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free alternative made from rice or quinoa. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as they may differ from regular pasta. Enjoy experimenting with different shapes and sizes to find your favorite combination in this creamy dish.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers are a fantastic perk of making Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may notice the pasta has absorbed some of the sauce. To revive its creamy goodness, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth while reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave—this will help restore the desired consistency and flavor.
If you're planning to freeze this dish, it's best to do so before adding the cheese. Store it in a freezer-safe container, and when you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently and stir in the cheese just before serving for that melty, delicious finish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and flour to adapt this recipe.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
→ Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before adding the cheese. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Indulge in this comforting and creamy chicken pot pie pasta that brings the classic flavors of pot pie into a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for family dinners!
Created by: Abigail Foster
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat. Gradually add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta and mix well to combine.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g