Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta combines the comforting flavors of chicken pot pie with the ease of a pasta dish, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a delightful twist on a classic dish. With tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce, it's the ultimate comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that coats every bite
- Hearty chicken and vegetables for a complete meal
- Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A Comforting Twist on a Classic
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta takes the beloved flavors of traditional chicken pot pie and reimagines them in a pasta dish that's both hearty and satisfying. This recipe captures the essence of comfort food, making it ideal for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully, ensuring every bite is infused with rich flavor.
This dish not only appeals to your taste buds but also to your sense of nostalgia. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy goodness evokes memories of cozy family dinners, making it a perfect meal for both adults and children alike. It's a great way to introduce a new twist to a classic that everyone loves.
Quick and Easy for Busy Nights
One of the standout features of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. This makes it an excellent option for those busy weeknights when you want to put a wholesome dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Additionally, this recipe is versatile. You can easily customize it by using whatever vegetables you have on hand or even swapping out the chicken for turkey or a plant-based protein. This flexibility ensures you can adapt the dish to your family's preferences, making it a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Another advantage of this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. This means you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal even on your busiest days. Simply reheat and serve, and you'll have a delicious dinner in no time.
When stored properly, this dish can last up to three days in the refrigerator or several months in the freezer. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to save time and reduce food waste while still enjoying hearty, homemade meals.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before you start cooking.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Add Cream and Seasonings
Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and frozen vegetables to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through for another 5 minutes.
Finish with Cheese
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve warm.
Enjoy your creamy chicken pot pie pasta with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider using freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor and texture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds depth to the dish without the extra prep work.
When it comes to the sauce, don't rush the simmering process. Allowing the sauce to thicken properly will enhance its creaminess and ensure it clings beautifully to the pasta. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it cook a little longer before adding the pasta and chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further with some simple serving suggestions. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a burst of color and freshness to each plate. Additionally, a side salad or warm bread can complement the meal, providing a balanced dining experience.
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick. This can enhance the flavor profile and make the dish more exciting without overwhelming the classic taste.
Nutritional Information
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is not only a comfort food delight but also provides a balanced meal. With protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the pasta, it's a well-rounded option for any dinner table. You can also make it healthier by opting for whole grain pasta and low-fat dairy options.
Keep in mind that portion control is key to enjoying this dish without overindulging. Serving it alongside a green salad can help fill you up without adding too many extra calories, making for a satisfying yet nutritious meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.
→ What type of pasta works best?
Penne or rotini pasta works best as they hold onto the sauce well.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the pasta with a gluten-free version and use cornstarch instead of flour for the sauce.
→ How can I make this dish lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta combines the comforting flavors of chicken pot pie with the ease of a pasta dish, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Created by: Amber Walsh
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How-To Steps
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and frozen vegetables to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through for another 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g