Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta: The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Comfort Food
When the craving for classic comfort food strikes, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of chicken pot pie. Its creamy filling, tender chicken, and medley of vegetables are pure culinary bliss. However, for many home cooks, the traditional double-crust pie can be an intimidating undertaking. The intricate process of crafting the perfect flaky pastry often deters even the most enthusiastic cooks. If you, like me, appreciate the flavors of a chicken pot pie but prefer to bypass the pastry perfectionism, then this Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta recipe is your new weeknight hero.
Imagine all the beloved components of a savory chicken pot pie—succulent chicken, vibrant peas, crisp sweet corn, tender carrots, and fresh green beans—enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, all tossed with wide, satisfying noodles. This isn’t just a simplified version; it’s a brilliant transformation, delivering incredible flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss of a pie crust. And the best part? It’s incredibly quick, often ready in under 30 minutes, making it the ideal solution for busy evenings when you need a wholesome, delicious meal on the table fast. Forget the intricate baking and enjoy pure comfort in a single skillet!
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Pasta Version
This Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta isn’t just a substitute for the classic; it’s a revelation. It takes everything wonderful about the traditional dish and makes it accessible, efficient, and equally (if not more) delicious for everyday dining. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- **Speed and Simplicity:** Traditional chicken pot pie requires time for crust preparation, assembly, and baking. This skillet pasta streamlines the entire process. Everything comes together in one pan, reducing cleanup and drastically cutting down cooking time. You can go from prep to plate in about 30 minutes, a true win for any busy individual or family.
- **All the Flavor, No Fuss:** You get all the nostalgic, savory, and creamy goodness of chicken pot pie without the commitment of making or rolling out a pie crust. The rich, velvety sauce infused with classic seasonings perfectly coats the pasta, chicken, and vegetables, delivering that comforting taste in every bite.
- **One-Pan Wonder:** The magic of a skillet meal lies in its efficiency. Cooking in a single pan means fewer dishes to wash, making post-dinner cleanup a breeze. This convenience makes it a fantastic option for any night of the week.
- **Customizable and Versatile:** This recipe is highly adaptable. While it calls for a specific mix of vegetables, you can easily swap them out based on what you have on hand or what your family prefers. Add different herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or even adjust the protein. It’s a forgiving recipe that encourages creativity.
- **Kid-Friendly:** The creamy texture, familiar chicken, and hidden vegetables make this a hit with children. It’s a clever way to ensure they get a balanced meal that tastes like a treat.
The Secret Ingredient: Bacon!
What takes this already incredible dish to the next level? Bacon, of course! A few slices of crispy, savory bacon add a depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce and tender chicken beautifully. It introduces a subtle smoky undertone and a delightful textural contrast that elevates the entire meal. Cooking the bacon first also leaves behind a flavorful rendered fat, which becomes the perfect base for sautéing the chicken, layering in even more deliciousness. Trust me, once you try it with bacon, you’ll wonder how you ever made a pot pie without it!
Can I Make This Skillet Pasta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta is not only fantastic fresh from the skillet but also makes for excellent leftovers, which can be prepared in advance for an even easier meal. If you’re planning a busy week, you can cook a larger batch and store it for later. Here’s how to manage it:
- Make-Ahead Prep: Prepare the entire dish as instructed. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight casserole dish or individual meal prep containers. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating Instructions:
- Oven Method: For a quick reheat that brings back some of that comforting warmth, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You can optionally sprinkle the top with some shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, or both for a delightful crust. Bake covered for 20-25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. The cheese will melt beautifully, and the breadcrumbs will turn golden and crisp.
- Microwave Method: For individual servings, simply microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway, until piping hot. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge.
This flexibility makes it perfect for meal prepping. Enjoying a homemade, hearty dinner on the table is effortless, even on your busiest nights. Everyone will love it, and you’ll love the convenience!
Serving this pasta is entirely up to your preference. While I love to pair it with crunchy oyster crackers for a satisfying textural contrast, you could also serve it alongside some freshly baked biscuits. My fluffy drop biscuits are always a favorite and are incredibly easy to whip up. Or, if you prefer to keep it simple, the pasta is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. However you choose to serve it, get ready to savor every comforting bite!
If you create this delicious skillet pasta, be sure to capture a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Tag me @crunchycreamysweet so I can see your wonderful creations!
Related Pasta Recipes You Might Enjoy:
- Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta
- Best Lemon Ricotta Pasta
- Spaghetti alla Carbonara
Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta Recipe
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite size pieces (or use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for more flavor)
- salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil (or a neutral cooking oil)
- 3 slices of bacon chopped (for added flavor and texture)
- 8 oz uncooked wide egg noodles (or other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow ties)
- 12 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables (containing sweet peas, carrots, and green beans), thawed
- ½ cup frozen sweet corn (adds a touch of sweetness)
- 2 cups half and half (for a rich, creamy sauce, or use whole milk for a lighter version)
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 Tablespoon Ranch seasoning mix (optional, for an extra layer of savory flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for aromatic depth)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your pasta. Cook the wide egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. This typically involves boiling them in a large pot of salted water. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, keeping it warm to prevent it from sticking together.
- In a large, deep skillet (preferably cast iron or heavy-bottomed), heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the same skillet, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through and lightly browned on all sides. Ensure there is no pink remaining in the center of the chicken pieces.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare your creamy sauce base. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half (or whole milk) with the cornstarch until smooth. This ensures the cornstarch dissolves completely, preventing lumps in your sauce. Stir in the Ranch seasoning mix (if using, it adds a wonderful savory kick) and the Italian seasoning. Set this mixture aside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the thawed frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans) and the frozen sweet corn to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them cooked but still retaining a slight bite.
- Pour the cornstarch and milk mixture into the skillet with the chicken and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring continuously. As it heats, the sauce will begin to thicken. Continue to cook and stir for another 2-3 minutes after it starts to boil, until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.
- Finally, add the drained, warm wide egg noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently until the noodles, chicken, and vegetables are thoroughly coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Crumble the reserved crispy bacon over the top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Serve immediately with oyster crackers or warm biscuits on the side.
Nutrition
Tips for Success & Variations
Achieving a perfect creamy skillet pasta is simple with a few key tips and an open mind to variations:
- Chicken Choices: While boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can add more flavor and remain tender even if slightly overcooked. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even faster meal—just shred it and add it with the vegetables.
- Pasta Perfection: Wide egg noodles are fantastic for soaking up the creamy sauce, but feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bow ties. Cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to absorb some sauce and cook slightly further when combined with the hot sauce.
- Vegetable Medley: The frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, but fresh alternatives work wonderfully. Sauté chopped onions, celery, and fresh carrots before adding the chicken, then toss in fresh peas or blanched green beans towards the end. Don’t be afraid to add other favorites like mushrooms or bell peppers.
- Creaminess Factor: Half and half provides a rich, luxurious sauce. For a lighter version, use whole milk. For an extra indulgent dish, a splash of heavy cream can be added. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk (full-fat) can work, though it will impart a subtle tropical flavor. Ensure your cornstarch is fully dissolved in the cold liquid before adding it to the hot skillet to prevent clumping.
- Flavor Boosters: The Ranch seasoning is optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of savory depth. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of poultry seasoning to enhance the pot pie flavor. A tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or chives at the end adds freshness and color.
- Cheesy Goodness: For cheese lovers, stir in half a cup of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère cheese when you combine the pasta and sauce for an extra creamy, cheesy kick.
Serving Suggestions for Your Skillet Pasta
This Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can certainly enhance the dining experience with a few thoughtful accompaniments:
- Crispy Toppings: As mentioned, oyster crackers provide a classic pot pie crunch. Crumbled buttery crackers, croutons, or even toasted breadcrumbs can also work beautifully.
- Fluffy Biscuits or Bread: A side of warm, fluffy biscuits is a match made in heaven. Their soft texture and ability to soak up any extra creamy sauce are unbeatable. Alternatively, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread.
- Simple Green Salad: To add a fresh, light counterpoint to the rich pasta, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect choice. The tanginess of the dressing will cut through the creaminess of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you want to expand on the vegetable component, serve alongside some roasted asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Storage and Reheating Best Practices
Proper storage and reheating ensure your Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta remains delicious for future meals:
- Storage: Allow any leftover pasta to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving a little headspace. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that pasta can sometimes become a bit softer after freezing and thawing, but the flavor will still be excellent.
- Reheating:
- Stovetop: The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop. Place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it heats, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: For quick individual portions, microwave on medium power, stirring every minute, until hot. Again, a little extra liquid can help restore the sauce’s consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are answers to some common questions about making Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta:
Q: Can I use different types of pasta?
A: Yes! While wide egg noodles are traditional for the “pot pie” feel, other short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, cavatappi, or even medium shells work wonderfully. Just cook them according to package directions.
Q: What if my sauce is too thin or too thick?
A: If the sauce is too thin, create a quick cornstarch slurry by whisking 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold milk or water, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Cook for another minute until thickened. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a splash more milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Omit the chicken and bacon. Instead, use vegetable broth, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, diced potatoes (par-boiled first), or white beans. You can also use a plant-based chicken substitute.
Q: How do I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta (ensure it’s certified gluten-free). The cornstarch is naturally gluten-free. Double-check that your Ranch seasoning mix and any other packaged ingredients are also gluten-free.
Q: Can I add cheese to the pasta?
A: Yes, definitely! Stir in about ½ cup of shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses into the sauce just before adding the pasta. It will melt into the creamy sauce, adding another layer of flavor and richness.
This Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Pasta offers all the nostalgic appeal of a classic comfort dish with a modern twist for speed and convenience. It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or any time you need a comforting hug in a bowl. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make family favorite!
