Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is not just another weeknight meal; it’s a delightful blend of comforting flavors that will warm your heart. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender pieces of chicken and vibrant veggies. It’s easy to make, quick to cook, and best of all, it comes together in just one pot, creating a minimal-mess cooking experience. Perfect for family dinners, it’s the ideal dish for when you’re looking for comfort food that satisfies and brings everyone to the table.

Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne or shells)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted and bubbly. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing the fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen.

Step 2: Add Broth and Pasta

Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Toss in the pasta, stirring well to combine, and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking together.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Then, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until it’s fully melted and the sauce turns creamy and luscious.

Step 4: Add Chicken and Vegetables

Add in the shredded chicken along with the frozen peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir everything until evenly combined and heated through. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta warm, garnished with additional cheese or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. Enjoy every comforting bite of this creamy goodness!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is best served hot. For added flair, consider garnishing with extra shavings of cheese or fresh parsley. It can stand alone as a hearty meal but also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.

Storage:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to help restore the creamy texture.

Helpful Notes

• Pasta Choice: Penne and shells are excellent options, but feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy best.
• Add More Vegetables: For enhanced nutrition, consider adding in spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms along with the peas and carrots.
• Cheese Options: You can also experiment with other cheese varieties such as mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor twist.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Simply shred it and mix it in as directed.

Q2: Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by opting for gluten-free pasta and ensuring that the broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Q3: Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and Greek yogurt, although this may affect the final texture slightly.

Q4: How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can keep it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for mushrooms or chickpeas and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q5: Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes! Leftovers can be frozen for up to a month. Just thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth or cream to keep it creamy.