This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake combines the cozy flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the hearty satisfaction of a pasta casserole. With tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a creamy sauce loaded with veggies, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when youβre craving a warm, comforting meal.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- One-Dish Wonder: Combines the best of chicken pot pie and pasta in one dish.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights, using simple pantry staples.
- Family-Friendly: Packed with familiar flavors everyone loves.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap the pasta, or switch up the cheese.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta: Penne or rotini work best for holding the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables: Peas, carrots, and corn are classic, but feel free to mix in your favorites.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 Β½ cups milk: To thin out the sauce and make it creamy.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds savory depth.
- Β½ tsp onion powder: Enhances the flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Balances the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For cheesy goodness.
- Β½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional): Adds a crispy topping.
Tools Youβll Need
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spatula
- Oven or broiler
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and mixed vegetables until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Assemble
- Add the cooked pasta to the creamy mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 4: Add the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)
- If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle the panko evenly over the cheese.
- Drizzle with a little melted butter or olive oil for extra crispiness.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20β25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If youβd like a golden topping, switch to the broiler for the last 2β3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.
Tips for the Best Pasta Bake
- Donβt Overcook the Pasta: Keep it slightly underdone (al dente) so it doesnβt get mushy when baked.
- Use Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken or turkey.
- Swap the Cheese: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different flavor profiles.
- Make It Creamier: Stir in ΒΌ cup sour cream or cream cheese for an extra rich sauce.
Variations
- Veggie Packed: Add broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Herby Flavor: Add dried thyme or rosemary to mimic the flavors of chicken pot pie.
- Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad balances the rich, creamy pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or green beans.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked or fully baked pasta bake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in a 350Β°F oven until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of soup?
Yes! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup works well if you donβt have cream of chicken.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the pasta bake, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5β10 minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream soup for a delicious gluten-free version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Sugar: 6g
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food thatβs sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy topping, itβs a dish youβll make again and again.
If you try this recipe, Iβd love to hear how it turned out! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest, and let me know if you added any creative twists.
Happy baking! ππ₯§πβ¨