Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake brings together the comfort of a traditional chicken pot pie and the ease of a creamy pasta bake. With tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this one-dish wonder is both hearty and simple to make. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal or a weeknight dinner that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Directions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir the shredded cooked chicken and mixed vegetables into the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is heated through.
Step 4: Mix in the Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring everything together to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover and cook until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
Optional Step 6: Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
If you prefer a crispy top, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of the dish and place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Dish up the pasta and serve warm. Enjoy this creamy, comforting meal!
Storage & Reheating Tips:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through. For microwave reheating, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm. Add a splash of milk to prevent it from drying out.
20 Best Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake:
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking your pasta helps it maintain texture when baked.
- Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for quick prep.
- Homemade Cream of Chicken: Swap the canned soup with a homemade version for richer flavor.
- Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, sautéed vegetables for more vibrant flavors.
- Frozen Veggies Work Too: No need to thaw frozen veggies before adding to the sauce—they’ll heat up perfectly.
- Extra Herbs: Add thyme or parsley for a more traditional chicken pot pie taste.
- Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Add Some Crunch: Use crushed Ritz crackers instead of panko for a buttery, crunchy topping.
- Broil Carefully: Keep a close eye on the dish when broiling to avoid burning the breadcrumbs.
- Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover holiday turkey.
- Mix in Bacon: Add cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky twist.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a bit of heat.
- Add a Dash of Nutmeg: A small pinch of nutmeg enhances the creamy sauce.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Avoid Drying Out: If the pasta bake looks dry, add a splash of milk before reheating.
- Skip the Bake: If you’re short on time, skip the broiling step and serve straight from the stovetop.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
- One-Pot Method: Use a deep ovenproof skillet to cook everything in one pot for fewer dishes.
- Portion Control: Divide into individual ramekins for single-serve portions, perfect for meal prepping.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes! Penne or rotini work best, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate. Add breadcrumbs and bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or make a homemade version for a cleaner option.
4. How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and add extra veggies.
5. Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey works just as well in this recipe.
6. Is there a vegetarian option?
You can replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
7. How do I avoid the dish becoming dry?
Be sure to undercook the pasta slightly and add extra milk if the mixture looks too thick.
8. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this pasta bake freezes well for up to 3 months.
9. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely, fresh vegetables work beautifully and enhance the flavor.
10. Can I add other seasonings?
Feel free to experiment with thyme, rosemary, or parsley for added flavor.
11. How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
12. Can I skip the cheese topping?
You can, but the cheese adds a rich, gooey finish that complements the creamy sauce.
13. Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
14. Can I add other proteins?
Sure! Try adding cooked sausage, ham, or bacon for variation.
15. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free milk and cheese to create a creamy yet lactose-free meal.
16. What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A light side salad or steamed green beans are excellent pairings.
17. Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes, if you prefer a softer top, you can skip the breadcrumbs entirely.
18. Will this work in a slow cooker?
It can be adapted, but the breadcrumbs will need to be broiled separately.
19. Can I use canned vegetables?
Canned vegetables can work but drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
20. How long can I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Enjoy this comforting, creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake, whether fresh or reheated, with these expert tips and answers to all your recipe questions
