Chicken Pot Pie Pasta combines the comforting, creamy filling of a classic chicken pot pie with the richness of pasta, creating a satisfying, one-pot meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a velvety sauce, this dish is ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a warm and filling meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) penne or any pasta of your choice
- Salt, for the pasta water
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (or use rotisserie chicken)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (150g) carrots, diced
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
- 1 cup (150g) corn kernels (frozen or fresh)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups (600ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water for later, and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic, carrots, peas, and corn. Sauté for another 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken and set the mixture aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add the flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 4-5 minutes, until it thickens.
- Season with dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta in the sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Stir in the sautéed chicken and vegetables, making sure everything is evenly combined.
Step 5: Optional Cheese Topping
- For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the pasta and stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes extra creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy protein addition.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and double the veggies for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the peas and corn for other vegetables, such as mushrooms, green beans, or potatoes.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, top the pasta with a few crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and bake for 10 minutes until golden brown.
Variations to Try
- Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta: Add extra cheese like mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyère to make the dish even more indulgent.
- Spicy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta: Add some heat by stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use a dairy-free cream and butter substitute for a lighter or dairy-free version of this recipe.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or another low-carb pasta substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken works well too. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking and shred it as needed. You can also cook it from frozen in the oven or on the stove.
Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half if you prefer a lighter sauce, but the sauce will be less creamy. For a thicker sauce, stick with heavy cream.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. Store the pasta and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and toss it with the pasta and vegetables.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Can I Use Other Pasta Types?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, such as elbow macaroni, fusilli, or even spaghetti, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, offering a delicious combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables. This easy, one-pot dish takes the flavors of a classic chicken pot pie and turns it into a pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Whether you make it with homemade chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of a chicken pot pie in pasta form!