Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a quick and easy twist on the classic comfort food. It combines tender chicken, vegetables, and pasta in a creamy sauce, then bakes it all together for a warm and hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings all the cozy flavors you love—without the extra work.
Why We Love This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Recipe
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta isn’t just a nostalgic dish; it’s a modern twist that makes the classic chicken pot pie accessible in a delicious new way. Imagine all the wholesome flavors of your favorite pot pie combined with the delight of pasta, all cooked in one dish! You’ll appreciate how quickly this meal comes together, needing just a handful of ingredients and a bit of baking time. It’s also a great way to sneak in those veggies, making it a complete meal that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a weekday dinner solution, preparing for a family gathering, or seeking to impress guests with a comforting dish, Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is the answer. It’s delicious, straightforward, and guarantees that every bite is filled with flavor. Once you try it, you may find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!
Ingredients about Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
To create this delightful Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, you will need the following ingredients, which can mostly be found in your pantry or local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup (you can also use cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup if preferred)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (if you have fresh thyme, you can use 1 1/2 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1/2 pound raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked rotini pasta (approximately 4.5 ounces dry)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (keep them frozen until ready to use)
- Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme
These ingredients combine to create a deliciously hearty meal that’s both simple and satisfying. All you need to gather them, and you’re ready to start!
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Directions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Making Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is remarkably easy, and you’ll find that it doesn’t take much time at all. Here’s how to prepare it step by step:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake your dish, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent your delicious meal from sticking, making serving a breeze.
Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of celery soup with the milk and chicken broth. This mix will form the creamy sauce that binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
Add Seasoning and Chicken: Next, stir in the dried thyme along with the diced onion and raw chicken pieces. This step not only adds fantastic flavor but also ensures that the chicken absorbs all the delicious seasonings while it cooks.
Incorporate the Pasta: Carefully stir in the uncooked rotini pasta. You want to make sure that the pasta is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, as it will absorb the flavors while baking.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the entire mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly.
Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. This step cooks the chicken and pasta perfectly.
Add the Vegetables: After 30 minutes, take the dish out and remove the foil. It’s time to stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. Don’t worry about thawing them; they will cook nicely in the oven.
Return to the Oven: Cover the dish again with foil and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to check that the pasta is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Final Stir and Rest: Once done, take the dish out of the oven, remove the foil, and give everything a good stir. Let the pasta rest for about 5 minutes before serving it hot. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Season to Taste: Finally, taste the dish and add kosher salt and ground black pepper as needed.
And there you have it! A hearty and comforting meal that took barely any effort to prepare.
How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
When it comes time to serve your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, you’ll want to showcase its delightful appearance and rich, creamy texture. Here are a few recommendations for serving:
Garnish: Just before serving, consider sprinkling some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or extra thyme on top for a pop of color and a fresh aroma. It not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an additional layer of flavor.
Pair with Simple Sides: Given that this dish is filling, serving it alongside a light side salad could offer a refreshing contrast. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonderfully!
Presentation: Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on colorful plates. A touch of warmth is essential, so consider preheating your serving dishes.
Enjoy Family-Style: Alternatively, you can place the baking dish directly on the dining table, allowing everyone to serve themselves straight from the dish. This approach adds a cozy, informal vibe to your meal.
Leftover Storage: If you have leftovers, make sure to store them properly (more on that later). You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with your favorite bread, whether it’s a warm baguette or some homemade biscuits.
Expert Tips: Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
To make sure your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta turns out perfectly, here are some expert tips that can help enhance your cooking experience:
Quality of Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible. Opt for fresh chicken and good-quality canned soup. The overall taste of your dish will improve significantly.
Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to play around with the mixed vegetables. You can use peas, carrots, corn, or any other frozen veggies you have on hand. Just be cautious not to add too many, as it might alter the desired creamy texture.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the mixture before baking. This way, you can adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Everyone has different taste preferences, and it’s always best to make the dish your own.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since the chicken will continue to cook as it bakes with the other ingredients, be mindful not to overcook it in the initial step. It should only be lightly browned in the pan, as it will become tender and juicy in the oven.
Experiment with Pasta: While rotini works great, you can experiment with other pasta shapes such as penne or macaroni. Different pasta shapes will slightly change the texture, making it a fun and versatile meal.
With these tips, you can confidently create a Chicken Pot Pie Pasta that impresses even the most discerning palates.
How to Store Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often the case with this crowd-pleaser), proper storage is key to enjoying it again later. Here’s how to store your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta effectively:
Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Placing hot items directly into the fridge can affect the temperature of your fridge and spoil other foods.
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer any leftover pasta into airtight containers. This will help keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any other odors in the refrigerator.
Refrigeration: Store the Chicken Pot Pie Pasta in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stove. If the dish looks too dry, you can mix in a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating to restore creaminess.
Freezing Options: If you’d like to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the pasta. Allow it to cool completely, transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, and label it with the date. Frozen Chicken Pot Pie Pasta can last for up to three months.
Remember that while freezing and reheating can be done, this dish is best fresh. However, you’ll still find that reheated Chicken Pot Pie Pasta remains tasty and satisfying.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
One of the great things about Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few variations you might consider:
Make it Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a cream of mushroom soup for a fully vegetarian version.
Add Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. Cheddar or mozzarella would melt beautifully, enhancing the creaminess of the dish.
Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in your sauce. This will give your dish a delightful kick that adds to the overall flavor profile.
Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: If you’re looking for healthier options or have dietary restrictions, consider using whole wheat rotini or gluten-free pasta. These alternatives make the meal more accessible while still retaining taste and texture.
Get Creative with Spices: Experiment with other herbs and spices like rosemary, oregano, or even garlic powder to give your dish a new twist. Each herb will bring a different flavor, allowing you to customize your dish for your taste.
These variations offer something for everyone, ensuring that you never get bored with this recipe. Your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta can change with the seasons or your mood, keeping it fresh and exciting!
FAQs about Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
What can I serve with Chicken Pot Pie Pasta?
You can pair this dish with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s hearty on its own, but a side of greens complements it well.
Can I make Chicken Pot Pie Pasta ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking point, cover it, and store it in the fridge for a day. Just pop it into the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can cut into a piece to ensure it’s no longer pink inside and fully cooked.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cooked chicken into the recipe. Simply skip the initial cooking step for the chicken and mix it in with the other ingredients before baking.
Is Chicken Pot Pie Pasta kid-friendly?
Most definitely! The creamy sauce and the familiar flavors of chicken pot pie typically appeal to children. It’s a great way to get them to enjoy a meal that includes veggies too!
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Casserole Dish
- Pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
- 2 cups short pasta such as penne or rotini, cooked and drained
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables thawed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk whole milk preferred
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add cooked chicken, pasta, vegetables, and cheese (if using) to the skillet. Mix until everything is coated in the sauce.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.