Directions to follow
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these vegetables until they’re softened, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and thyme, cooking for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring to combine everything well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously as the mixture comes to a simmer. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Once simmering, add in the shredded chicken and frozen peas. Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring every bite is coated.
- Top the dish with shredded cheddar cheese and serve warm, allowing that cheesy goodness to melt slightly before diving in.
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to soak up the extra creamy sauce. It also makes for delightful leftovers that can be enjoyed the next day.
How to store
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be hard to believe), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to preserve quality.
Helpful cooking tips
To optimize your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta, consider these chef-approved tips:
- For extra flavor, try using homemade chicken stock if you have it on hand.
- Adding a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking can brighten the dish.
- Don’t be afraid to mix in your favorite vegetables or leftover veggies you have in the fridge.
Creative twists
Looking to customize your Chicken Pot Pie Pasta? Try swapping out the chicken for turkey or even cooking with leftover holiday meats. For a vegetarian twist, use chickpeas or tofu, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Adding spices like paprika or using a mix of cheeses can also elevate the dish.
FAQs
What is the prep time for Chicken Pot Pie Pasta?
Prep time is typically around 10 minutes, with a total cooking time of about 25-30 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then just combine and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Is it safe to freeze Chicken Pot Pie Pasta?
Yes, it’s safe to freeze this dish. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container for freezing. Reheat thoroughly once you’re ready to enjoy it again.
