If you are craving the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie but want something quicker and easier, the Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe is here to become your new weeknight favorite. This luscious dish brings together tender chicken, creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey cheddar cheese in one delightful casserole that’s bursting with warmth and flavor. It effortlessly combines the best parts of pot pie and pasta bake, resulting in a meal that’s satisfyingly hearty yet simple to prepare. Trust me, once you dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness, it’ll instantly feel like a cozy hug on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this dish is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this recipe shine. Simple staples come together to create something truly special and crave-worthy.
- Cooked chicken, 2 cups: Use shredded or diced chicken for a tender protein base that soaks up all the creamy sauce.
- Pasta, 12 oz: Penne or rotini work well because their shapes capture the sauce perfectly, adding texture.
- Cream of chicken soup, 10.5 oz can: The foundation of the creamy sauce, bringing rich, comforting flavor.
- Sour cream, 1/2 cup: Adds tangy creaminess that brightens and thickens the sauce.
- Chicken broth, 1 cup: Lightens the sauce while enhancing the savory chicken notes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cups (divided): Adds a sharp, melty richness—some mixed into the bake, some sprinkled on top.
- Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Infuses subtle savory warmth without overpowering.
- Onion powder, 1 teaspoon: Deepens the flavor profile with gentle sweetness.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Enhances all the ingredients without masking their natural flavors.
- Black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon: Provides just the right hint of spice and depth.
- Melted butter, 2 tablespoons: Brings a luscious silkiness and helps coat the pasta perfectly.
- Optional – Frozen peas or mixed vegetables, 1 cup: For a vegetable boost that echoes the traditional chicken pot pie vibe.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish assembling. Then, cook the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain it well to avoid any sogginess, as the pasta will cook further in the oven with the sauce.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended — this sauce is what makes the bake irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Butter
Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken, the drained pasta, and the melted butter into the bowl with the sauce. If you’re including frozen peas or mixed veggies, toss them in now. Stir everything until every piece of pasta and chicken is coated in that luscious sauce, ensuring a uniform, savory flavor throughout.
Step 4: Assemble and Top the Bake
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the pasta mixture into it, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top; this will create a beautiful, golden, bubbly cheese crust that you’ll dream about.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to be perfectly melted with some golden brown spots around the edges—this is when you know it’s ready. Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely and is easy to scoop.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top adds a lovely pop of green and freshness that cuts through the richness. For an extra touch, a dusting of paprika or a few red pepper flakes can bring a hint of warmth and color that brightens the presentation.
Side Dishes
Keep sides simple with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the creamy, cheesy pasta bake. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic companions, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming, personal touch at dinner parties or family meals. Layer the bake with fresh herbs on top for a rustic look, or add a crunchy breadcrumb topping before baking for added texture and a golden finish that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated portions even tastier.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Place the unbaked pasta casserole in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep moisture locked in, for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave single servings but keep an eye on it to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is perfect because it’s already cooked and tender, which saves time and adds great flavor to your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream and cheddar cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup. This way, you won’t miss out on the creaminess the dish is known for.
What pasta works best in this bake?
Penne or rotini are ideal since their shapes hold onto the sauce wonderfully, but you can also use elbow macaroni or fusilli depending on what you have on hand.
Can I add other vegetables besides peas?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in diced carrots, corn, or even chopped broccoli to add color, nutrition, and texture to your pasta bake.
How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter over the cheese topping before baking. This adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy layers underneath.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort meal that’s quick to make, full of flavor, and guaranteed to please the whole family, don’t hesitate to try the Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings classic flavors into a fuss-free, satisfying dinner. Once you taste it, it’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation—cooked with love and savored with joy every single time.
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Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pasta Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake combines the comforting flavors of classic chicken pot pie with the ease of a baked pasta dish. Tender chicken, pasta, and a creamy sauce made from cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth come together, topped with melted cheddar cheese for a warm, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature for baking the pasta dish evenly.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined to create a creamy base.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, and melted butter to the bowl. If using, also add the frozen peas or mixed vegetables. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the pasta mixture evenly within it for uniform baking.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture to create a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are golden brown, indicating it is fully heated and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes to set before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
- Adding frozen peas or mixed vegetables enhances the nutritional value and mimics a traditional pot pie feel.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
- For a crispier top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
