I love creating meals that bring the cozy, nostalgic flavors of classic comfort food while keeping the cooking process simple. This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is exactly that—rich, creamy, and packed with all the deliciousness of a traditional chicken pot pie but in an easy-to-make pasta dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines tender egg noodles, juicy shredded chicken, and a velvety cream sauce, all infused with the savory flavors of a pot pie filling. The best part? It all comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, this recipe is an excellent way to transform simple ingredients into something comforting and satisfying.
A Creamy, Hearty, and Family-Friendly Meal
One of the things I love most about this dish is its creamy, rich texture. The combination of cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and chicken stock creates a smooth, flavorful sauce that coats every bite of pasta. The addition of peas and carrots adds a hint of sweetness and color, making the dish both hearty and visually appealing.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
To make this creamy and comforting Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Each component adds to the rich and hearty flavors of this dish.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded chicken – Leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Shredded pieces blend well into the sauce.
- 1 pound wide egg noodles – These noodles soak up the creamy sauce while maintaining a soft texture.
- 3 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps develop the flavor of the sauce.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup – A shortcut ingredient that gives the sauce its thick and creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese – Provides an extra layer of smoothness and richness to the dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken stock – Helps thin out the sauce while adding a savory depth of flavor.
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream – Adds to the creamy texture of the dish, making it extra indulgent.
- 1 can peas and carrots, drained – A classic pot pie addition that brings color and sweetness to the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor.
Optional Ingredients for More Flavor:
- 1 medium onion, diced (or onion powder) – Adds an extra savory depth to the dish.
- 1 stalk celery, chopped – A classic pot pie ingredient that brings a mild crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or garlic powder) – Enhances the overall taste with a subtle garlic kick.
- Parmesan cheese for garnish – Adds a touch of sharp, salty flavor for extra richness.
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
This one-pan pasta dish comes together in just a few easy steps. Follow along for a creamy, flavorful meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot or deep skillet, bring water to a boil. Add the wide egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-9 minutes. Once done, strain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (If Using)
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. If using, add the diced onion, garlic, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Once the aromatics are soft, add the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, chicken stock, milk (or heavy cream), peas, and carrots. Stir everything together and let it cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is well combined and heated through.
Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked egg noodles back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. Let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken stock or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty and creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or chicken stock to restore creaminess.
- Freeze: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How Long to Cook Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
The total cook time for this dish is approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal. Below is a breakdown of the cooking steps and how long each takes:
- Cooking the Pasta – 8-9 minutes, depending on the package instructions. Strain and set aside.
- Sautéing the Aromatics (If Using) – 2-3 minutes to soften the onions, garlic, and celery.
- Making the Sauce – 5 minutes to melt the cream cheese and blend the flavors.
- Simmering the Pasta in the Sauce – 3-5 minutes to allow the noodles to absorb the creamy sauce.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer for a few extra minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or milk to loosen it up.
How to Store Leftovers
This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Refrigerator Storage:
- Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- The sauce will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little milk or chicken stock when reheating.
Freezer Storage:
- This dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. However, cream-based sauces can sometimes change in texture when frozen.
- To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and let it cool completely before sealing.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions:
- Stovetop: Add the pasta to a skillet over low heat and stir occasionally. Add a splash of milk or chicken stock to restore the creamy consistency.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
Want to make sure your pasta turns out creamy and flavorful every time? Follow these simple tips:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – It saves time and adds great flavor. If using fresh chicken, season it well before cooking.
- Choose the Right Noodles – Wide egg noodles work best, but penne or rotini are great alternatives.
- Season to Taste – Depending on the saltiness of the cream of chicken soup and chicken stock, adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- Make It Extra Cheesy – Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan for a cheesier version.
- Add More Veggies – For extra nutrition, mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or corn.
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta – A Comforting One-Pan Meal
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta combines all the cozy flavors of a classic chicken pot pie in a quick and easy pasta dish. Creamy, hearty, and packed with tender chicken and vegetables, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover or rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 pound wide egg noodles
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 can (15 oz) peas and carrots, drained
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- 1 medium onion, diced (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta – In a large pot, boil the egg noodles according to package instructions (8-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics (If Using) – In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and celery (if using) and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce – Stir in the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, chicken stock, milk, and drained peas and carrots. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
- Combine with Pasta – Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and stir until fully coated in the creamy sauce. Let simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. If needed, add more chicken stock or milk to adjust the consistency.
- Serve & Garnish – Remove from heat and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or extra black pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, let the pasta simmer a few extra minutes, or add a bit more cream cheese.
- For a thinner sauce, stir in an extra splash of chicken stock or milk.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Make it extra cheesy by adding 1/2 cup shredded cheddar for a richer flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
1. Can I Make Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Ahead of Time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. If making ahead, cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them before serving. Store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken stock to maintain creaminess, then mix in the pasta.
2. What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer a homemade version, replace the canned cream of chicken soup with a mixture of:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
Melt the butter, whisk in the flour, then slowly add the stock and milk. Stir until thickened, then use it as a substitute in the recipe.
3. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While wide egg noodles work best for their soft, hearty texture, other pasta options include:
- Penne – Holds up well with the creamy sauce.
- Rotini – Twists help catch the sauce for extra flavor in every bite.
- Fettuccine – A thicker, more indulgent option.
Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type you choose.
4. How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten up this dish while keeping it creamy and flavorful, try these substitutions:
- Use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat.
- Replace heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost nutrition.
These small tweaks help make the dish healthier while maintaining its delicious taste!