Introduction
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a delightful fusion dish that brings together the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the ease and simplicity of a pasta dish. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and mixed vegetables with perfectly cooked pasta to create a hearty and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy families looking for a quick yet delicious dinner option.
Overview of the Recipe
This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta recipe takes the essence of a traditional chicken pot pie and transforms it into a creamy pasta dish. By using common ingredients like boneless chicken breasts, frozen mixed vegetables, and pantry staples like pasta and chicken broth, this recipe is both accessible and budget-friendly. The dish is finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, adding a touch of elegance and flavor.
History and Origin
Chicken pot pie has a long history as a comfort food, originating in medieval England and later becoming a staple in American cuisine. Traditionally, it features a savory pie crust filled with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. This pasta version maintains the core components of chicken pot pie but replaces the pie crust with pasta, making it quicker to prepare and just as comforting. This modern twist allows for the flavors to be enjoyed in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent, which will take approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are heated through.
- Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Add Broth and Cream: Gradually add the chicken broth to the skillet, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and stir until it is melted and well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish the dish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving
This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta serves four and is best enjoyed hot. Serve it in large bowls to capture all the creamy goodness, and consider adding a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Pair this rich and creamy pasta dish with a light and crisp side dish to balance the flavors. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed vegetables would complement the meal well. For beverages, consider serving it with iced tea, sparkling water with a slice of lemon, or a light, fruity non-alcoholic punch.
Variations of the Recipe
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy: For a cheesier version, add 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with the Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Health Benefits
This Chicken Pot Pie Pasta provides a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the pasta. The use of olive oil instead of butter helps reduce saturated fat intake, and incorporating a variety of vegetables boosts the dish’s vitamin and mineral content. For a lighter version, consider using a lower-fat cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it back to the skillet.
- Gradually adding the broth while stirring helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just make sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
Q: What other types of pasta can I use? A: You can use any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or macaroni. Long pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine is less suitable for this dish.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the best elements of a classic chicken pot pie and a creamy pasta dish. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it an ideal weeknight meal, while its rich flavors and hearty ingredients ensure it will be loved by the whole family. Try this recipe for a satisfying dinner that offers a new take on beloved comfort food.