Imagine the warm, hearty flavors of chicken pot pie blended seamlessly with the ease of pasta. Chicken Pot Pie Pasta brings the best of both worlds to your dinner table, making it a perfect family-friendly meal. With tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a luscious creamy sauce, this recipe is a quick way to enjoy comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Comfort Food Classic: Combines the creamy flavors of pot pie with the simplicity of pasta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz pasta: Penne, rotini, or bow ties work best for holding the sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the chicken.
- 1 lb chicken breast: Cubed for even cooking.
- 1 small onion: Finely chopped to add sweetness.
- 2 garlic cloves: Minced for a fragrant base.
- 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables: Peas, carrots, and corn bring classic pot pie vibes.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: To create the roux for the sauce.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a rich, velvety texture.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: For a hint of earthiness.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional): Adds warmth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For savory richness.
- 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (optional): Mimics a pot pie crust topping.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish.
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, as per package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Toss in the mixed frozen vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and melt butter in the cleared space.
- Sprinkle in flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously, followed by the heavy cream.
- Add thyme, nutmeg (optional), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything to coat evenly in the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer the pasta to a serving dish. Sprinkle with crushed crackers for a crunchy “pot pie crust” effect.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts.
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Chicken Pot Pie Pasta with:
- A crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans for added veggies.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce.
3. Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Any short pasta that holds sauce well, like rigatoni or farfalle, will work.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food favorites—chicken pot pie and pasta. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy evenings or weekend family dinners, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Serve it with love, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family! 🌟
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