
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a comforting, one-pot meal that takes the rich, creamy flavors of the classic chicken pot pie and transforms it into a delicious, easy-to-make pasta dish. With tender pieces of chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, this dish combines all the flavors you love in a pot pie, but in a more convenient, weeknight-friendly form. It’s the perfect dinner for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without the extra effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta brings together the best parts of two comfort foods: the savory chicken pot pie filling and the satisfying, hearty texture of pasta. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with tender chicken and vegetables, making it a wholesome dish the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a quick, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in or out ingredients based on what you have in the fridge. If you’re looking for a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to whip up, this Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a must-try!
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 ½ cups heavy cream
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8 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or shells work well)
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
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¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
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Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
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Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
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While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If desired, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
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Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow everything to come together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Makes about 4 servings
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 20-25 minutes
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Total time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
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Add More Vegetables: If you prefer more vegetables, you can add broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach to the mix.
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Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a faster prep time, substitute the diced chicken with rotisserie chicken.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and cornstarch instead of flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
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Herb Variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary or sage for a different herbal flavor profile.
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Cheese Variations: Try using a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella and parmesan, to change the flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover Chicken Pot Pie Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months. Let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
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Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, shells, or elbow macaroni.
2. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before serving. Just reheat it on the stove and add a bit of extra cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
3. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option, though the sauce will be less creamy.
4. Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Frozen chicken can be used, but be sure to thaw it before cooking for best results. You can also cook it from frozen, but it will take a bit longer.
5. Can I add more protein to the dish?
Certainly! You can add cooked beef, sausage, or turkey to enhance the flavor and add more protein to the meal.
6. How do I prevent the pasta from getting too dry when reheating?
When reheating, add a bit of extra chicken broth, milk, or cream to the pasta to help restore its creamy consistency.
7. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes for extra heartiness.
8. Can I make this recipe with a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella, parmesan, or even gouda in place of cheddar for a different flavor.
9. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is designed for stovetop cooking, you can cook the chicken and vegetables in a slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours, then add the pasta, cream, and seasonings toward the end of the cooking time.
10. What other vegetables can I use in this dish?
You can use any of your favorite vegetables, such as green beans, mushrooms, peas, or corn. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the type of vegetable.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food made simple. With its creamy, flavorful sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, it’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or cozy weeknight meal. The ease of preparation, combined with the satisfying flavors, makes this dish a keeper in any kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to hit the spot!
PrintChicken Pot Pie Pasta
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a creamy, comforting, one-pot meal that brings together the rich flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the heartiness of pasta. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 ½ cups heavy cream
8 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or shells work well)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the heavy cream, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta, making sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. If desired, add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow everything to come together. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute flour with cornstarch.
For added flavor, try adding other vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach.
Rotisserie chicken can be used for quicker prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg