Close your eyes and picture a chilly evening, the kind where a comforting, soul-warming meal is exactly what you crave. Now, imagine the classic, beloved flavors of chicken pot pie – tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce – but instead of a flaky crust, it’s all nestled amongst a tangle of perfectly cooked pasta. This is Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta, a dish that takes the heart of traditional pot pie and reimagines it into a satisfyingly slurpable, utterly irresistible pasta creation. The aroma alone, a symphony of savory chicken, sweet carrots, fragrant herbs, and creamy goodness, fills your kitchen with a comforting, homey scent that promises pure culinary bliss. Each twirl of pasta delivers a mouthful of tender chicken, soft vegetables, and a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every strand. It’s a dish that embodies warmth, familiarity, and effortless enjoyment, a testament to how classic comfort food can be reinvented into something new and equally delightful. Prepare to experience the cozy embrace of chicken pot pie in a whole new way with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make pasta sensation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ?

Comfort Food, Reimagined and Elevated:

Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta takes everything you adore about classic chicken pot pie and elevates it to a new level of comforting deliciousness. It retains all the familiar, heartwarming flavors – the savory chicken, the sweet vegetables, the rich creaminess – but presents them in a fun, approachable pasta format. It’s the best of both worlds, offering the nostalgic comfort of pot pie with the satisfying slurpability of creamy pasta, creating a dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new.

Ultimate Creamy, Dreamy Texture:

If you’re a devotee of creamy pasta dishes, prepare to be captivated. This recipe delivers an unbelievably luscious, velvety sauce that perfectly coats the pasta and clings to every piece of chicken and vegetable. The combination of butter, flour, milk, and a touch of cream cheese creates a sauce that is rich, decadent, and utterly dreamy. Each bite is a symphony of creamy textures, making it an incredibly satisfying and indulgent meal.

One-Pot Simplicity for Easy Weeknights:

Weeknight dinners should be delicious and stress-free, and this recipe delivers on both fronts. Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta is a true one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Everything, from sautéing the vegetables to cooking the pasta and creating the creamy sauce, happens in a single pot or skillet. This streamlined approach makes it perfect for busy evenings when you crave a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Kid-Friendly Flavors, Adult-Approved Satisfaction:

Finding a meal that pleases both picky eaters and discerning palates can be a challenge, but this recipe hits the sweet spot. The mild, savory flavors of chicken pot pie are inherently kid-friendly, while the creamy pasta format adds an element of fun and excitement. Adults will appreciate the depth of flavor and the sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food. It’s a dish that the whole family can agree on and enjoy together.

Vegetable Packed for Added Goodness:

Beyond the creamy sauce and tender chicken, this pasta dish is loaded with a medley of wholesome vegetables. Carrots, celery, onions, peas, and corn contribute sweetness, color, and a delightful textural variety to the meal. This vegetable boost not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds layers of flavor and satisfying heartiness, making it a complete and well-rounded culinary experience that you can feel good about serving.

this …

Ingredients

For the Hearty Chicken Pot Pie Filling:

• 1.5 lbs (approximately 680g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces: Chicken thighs are recommended for their richer flavor and tendency to remain juicy during cooking, but chicken breasts can also be used. Cutting into pieces ensures even cooking and allows the chicken to absorb the sauce flavors.
• 4 tablespoons (approximately 60g) Unsalted Butter, divided: Butter is used in stages – initially for sautéing vegetables and browning chicken, and later for enriching the sauce, contributing to the overall richness and flavor.
• 1 large Yellow Onion, diced: Yellow onion forms the aromatic base of the pot pie filling, adding a savory sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 Carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots add sweetness, color, and a subtle texture to the dish, enhancing its visual appeal and nutritional value.
• 2 Celery Stalks, diced: Celery contributes a subtle celery flavor and a pleasant textural element, balancing the richness of the cream sauce.
• 8 oz (approximately 225g) Cremini Mushrooms, sliced: Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bellas, add an earthy, umami richness to the pot pie filling. Slicing them allows them to cook evenly and release their flavor. White button mushrooms can be substituted if cremini are unavailable.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for infusing the dish with its signature aromatic flavor. Mince it finely to release its oils and distribute the flavor evenly.
• ⅓ cup (approximately 40g) All-Purpose Flour: Flour acts as a thickening agent for the cream sauce, creating a velvety smooth and luscious texture.
• 2 cups (approximately 480ml) Chicken Broth: Chicken broth provides the liquid base for the sauce and enhances the chicken flavor of the dish. Low-sodium broth allows better control over the final salt level.
• 1 cup (approximately 240ml) Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce and adds a touch of richness.
• 4 oz (approximately 110g) Cream Cheese, softened: Cream cheese is the secret ingredient for an extra decadent and creamy sauce. It adds a tangy richness and velvety smooth texture that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme: Dried thyme adds a subtle earthy and slightly minty herbaceousness that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
• ½ teaspoon Dried Rosemary: Dried rosemary contributes a piney, slightly peppery aroma that complements the thyme and adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Ground nutmeg adds a warm, subtly sweet, and aromatic note that enhances the richness of the cream sauce and provides a comforting depth of flavor.
• 1 cup (approximately 150g) Frozen Peas: Frozen peas add sweetness, a vibrant green color, and a tender texture to the dish. Add them towards the end of cooking to retain their bright color and freshness.
• 1 cup (approximately 150g) Frozen Corn Kernels: Frozen corn kernels add sweetness, a pop of color, and a pleasant textural element to the dish. Add them towards the end of cooking to retain their sweetness and prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Salt and Black Pepper, to taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out all the flavors in both the chicken and the sauce. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and adjust to your preference.

For the Creamy Pasta Base:

• 1 lb (approximately 450g) Penne Pasta or Egg Noodles: Penne pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully and provides a satisfying bite. Egg noodles are a classic choice for pot pie flavors and offer a tender, comforting texture. Choose your preferred pasta type.

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh Parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant green color and a fresh, herbaceous note as a garnish, brightening the dish visually and adding a touch of freshness.

How to Make Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta?

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables for Flavor Foundation:

Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Sauté the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes, until they soften and the onion becomes translucent, stirring occasionally. This step builds a flavorful base for the pot pie filling.

Step 2: Brown Chicken and Add Garlic & Mushrooms:

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed chicken thighs to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides. Add the sliced cremini mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture, and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Pot Pie Sauce:

Reduce the heat to medium and sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth. Stir in the softened cream cheese, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and ground nutmeg. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer and Thicken the Filling:

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or Dutch oven, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender, and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a richer and more complex pot pie filling.

Step 5: Cook Pasta to Al Dente Perfection:

While the pot pie filling simmers, cook the penne pasta or egg noodles according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the cooked pasta in a colander. Al dente pasta will hold its shape better when combined with the creamy sauce and prevent the dish from becoming mushy.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Pot Pie Filling:

Add the drained pasta to the skillet or Dutch oven with the creamy chicken pot pie filling. Stir gently to combine the pasta and filling, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Stir in the frozen peas and frozen corn kernels. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the peas and corn are heated through and the flavors are fully melded.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish with Freshness:

To serve, divide the Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta among bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and creamy, and enjoy this comforting and flavorful pasta twist on a classic pot pie!

Tips for Variations

Vegetable Medley Customization:

Customize the vegetable medley to your liking by adding other vegetables to the pot pie filling. Diced potatoes, green beans, broccoli florets, or sautéed bell peppers would all be delicious additions. Add heartier vegetables like potatoes and broccoli along with the carrots and celery in Step 1, and add quicker-cooking vegetables like green beans and bell peppers along with the peas and corn in Step 6.

Cheese Infusion for Extra Creaminess:

For an even richer and cheesier pasta dish, stir in grated cheese to the pot pie filling along with the cream cheese. Shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or a blend of cheeses would all be delicious additions, adding extra flavor and meltiness to the sauce. Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth before adding the pasta.

Herbaceous Flavor Boost:

Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor profile of the pot pie filling. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage can be used instead of or in addition to dried herbs for a more pronounced herbaceous note. Fresh chives or dill, stirred in at the end, can also add a bright, fresh finish.

Spice Level Adjustment for Warmth:

For those who enjoy a touch of warmth, add a pinch of red pepper flakes (chili flakes) or a dash of black pepper to the pot pie filling. Start with a small pinch and adjust to taste. You can also add a pinch of white pepper for a subtle heat that complements the creamy sauce.

Budget-Friendly Milk and Evaporated Milk Combination:

To make the creamy sauce more budget-friendly, you can substitute some of the whole milk with evaporated milk. Using a combination of evaporated milk and whole milk will still result in a creamy and flavorful sauce, while being slightly more economical than using all whole milk and cream cheese. You can also use all milk, but the sauce will be less rich.

Serving Suggestions

Simple Green Salad for Refreshing Contrast:

Serve Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta with a light and refreshing side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, a cucumber and tomato salad, or a mixed greens salad with a lemon-herb dressing would all be excellent choices to provide a fresh and crisp counterpoint.

Warm Crusty Bread for Sauce Sopping:

Always serve with warm, crusty bread or rolls for soaking up every last drop of the delicious creamy sauce. Garlic bread, baguette slices, or soft dinner rolls are all perfect for enjoying alongside this comforting pasta dish. The bread becomes an essential tool for ensuring no sauce is left behind!

Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans for a Vegetable Side:

Add a side of steamed green vegetables like asparagus or green beans for a simple and healthy vegetable accompaniment. Steamed vegetables offer a tender-crisp texture and a mild, slightly grassy flavor that pairs well with the creamy richness of the pasta. Drizzle the steamed vegetables with a little butter and lemon juice for extra flavor.

Lemon Wedges for Brightness and Zest:

Serve with lemon wedges on the side, allowing diners to add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to their individual portions. The lemon juice will brighten the flavors of the dish and add a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Garnish with Parmesan Cheese for Savory Depth:

Offer grated Parmesan cheese as a garnish for those who want to add an extra layer of savory, cheesy flavor to their Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving adds a salty, umami depth that complements the creamy sauce and enhances the overall richness of the dish.

FAQ

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken to save time?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe, making it even quicker and easier to prepare. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the skillet along with the mushrooms and garlic in Step 2, skipping the step of browning raw chicken. Rotisserie chicken is already cooked and flavorful, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy in the sauce?

To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, be sure to cook it al dente according to package directions. Al dente pasta will hold its shape better when combined with the creamy sauce and prevent the dish from becoming overly soft. Also, add the cooked pasta to the sauce just before serving to prevent it from sitting in the sauce for too long and absorbing too much liquid.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta can be prepared partially ahead of time. You can prepare the pot pie filling (up to Step 4) a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh just before serving and then combine it with the reheated filling. This allows you to break up the cooking process and save time on busy days.

Q: What are some good substitutions for penne pasta or egg noodles?

If you don’t have penne pasta or egg noodles, you can substitute with other pasta shapes that work well with creamy sauces, such as fettuccine, rotini, bow tie pasta (farfalle), or shells. You can also use other types of noodles like wide ribbon pasta or even gluten-free pasta alternatives. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape, so adjust accordingly.

Q: How long can I store leftover Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta?

Store leftover Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie Creamy Pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or skillet until heated through before serving. The sauce may thicken upon refrigeration, so you may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.

Print