Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in the comforting flavors of chicken pot pie transformed into a creamy pasta dish that's perfect for the whole family.
This creamy chicken pot pie pasta combines all the classic flavors of chicken pot pie into a hearty pasta dish. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for chilly evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
- Loaded with tender chicken and fresh vegetables
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
A Comforting Family Favorite
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta brings together the best elements of a beloved classic in a new and exciting way. This dish is not only a delightful twist on traditional chicken pot pie but also a meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce enveloping al dente penne pasta makes for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer using leftover rotisserie chicken, swapping in different vegetables, or even using a different type of pasta, this dish will still turn out delicious. It’s a great way to use up leftovers and keep mealtime interesting!
Quick and Easy Preparation
In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a homemade meal can be a challenge. Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is designed for busy weeknights, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready to serve, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones.
The recipe features minimal prep work, making it user-friendly even for those who may not consider themselves expert cooks. By utilizing frozen mixed vegetables and pre-cooked chicken, you can significantly cut down on preparation time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This creamy pasta dish is an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily make a larger batch and store it for later use. Simply divide the leftovers into individual portions and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, you’ll have a quick and satisfying meal ready to heat up whenever you need it.
Moreover, Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta freezes well, making it a great choice for those days when you need something comforting but don’t have time to cook. Just remember to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat for a delicious meal in minutes.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting for a smooth cooking experience.
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.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken and frozen vegetables to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Mix in the Pasta
Once the sauce is simmering, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Results
To make the most of your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, consider using homemade chicken broth for a deeper and richer flavor. If you have the time, simmering your broth with fresh herbs and spices can elevate the taste of the dish significantly.
Don't hesitate to experiment with different herbs and spices. While thyme is a classic choice, adding a pinch of rosemary or parsley can provide an additional layer of flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta and add a refreshing touch to your meal.
For an extra punch of flavor, consider garnishing your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall presentation and taste of the dish.
Allergy-Friendly Variations
If you or your family members have dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily adapted. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute gluten-free penne pasta. There are many great alternatives available that will provide a similar texture and taste.
For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative in place of heavy cream. Additionally, consider using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, making this dish suitable for those following a vegan diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it. Just add a splash of broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
→ What vegetables can I use?
Feel free to use any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers.
→ Is there a gluten-free option?
You can use gluten-free pasta as a substitute to make this dish gluten-free.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Indulge in the comforting flavors of chicken pot pie transformed into a creamy pasta dish that's perfect for the whole family.
Created by: Emily Carter
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)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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 garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
Add the shredded chicken and frozen vegetables to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Once the sauce is simmering, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g