Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake: Comfort Food Made Easy!
Looking for a hearty and comforting dinner that’s quick to prepare? This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake combines all the flavors of classic chicken pot pie in an easy-to-make pasta bake. With tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce, topped with melty cheddar cheese and a crispy panko crust, it’s the perfect meal for busy nights or family gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake:
- Comforting & Creamy: This dish brings together the creamy, savory flavors of chicken pot pie with the heartiness of pasta for a satisfying meal.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, this one-pan dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a home-cooked meal without all the fuss.
- Cheesy & Flavorful: A generous amount of cheddar cheese melts into the creamy sauce, making each bite irresistible.
- Perfect for Families: With 6 servings, this dish is great for feeding a family or serving as leftovers for the next day.
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:
1. Cook the Pasta (Time: 10 minutes)
Boil the pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce (Time: 5 minutes)
In a large skillet over medium heat, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients (Time: 7 minutes)
Add the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables to the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the chicken to heat through.
4. Mix in the Pasta (Time: 2 minutes)
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir everything together, ensuring that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Add Cheese (Time: 3 minutes)
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and the dish is bubbling.
6. Optional Breadcrumb Topping (Time: 2-3 minutes)
For a crispy top, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top of the pasta bake. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
7. Serve & Enjoy (Time: 1 minute)
Dish up the creamy chicken pot pie pasta bake and serve warm. Enjoy this comforting meal with a side of garlic bread or a salad!
Additional Information:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Kcal: 350-400 kcal per serving (depending on cheese and toppings)
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake:
- Use Leftover Chicken: This is the perfect dish to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have in the fridge.
- Swap Vegetables: You can customize the vegetable mix by using frozen peas, corn, carrots, and even green beans or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, swap the pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
- Add Extra Seasonings: Try adding a pinch of thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor in the sauce.
FAQ About Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake:
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it as instructed when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, you can freeze this pasta bake for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping and freezing it. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and bake as usual.
Q: Can I use a different kind of cheese?
A: Yes! Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend of your choice. Each will give the dish a different flavor profile.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake:
This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best elements of two classic favorites: chicken pot pie and pasta. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal that everyone will love. With a crispy topping and loads of tender vegetables, it’s a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
