One Pan Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Skillet

If you’re craving comfort food that doesn’t require a pile of dirty dishes, this one pan chicken pot pie pasta skillet with creamy noodles is your answer. It’s everything you love about a traditional chicken pot pie—creamy filling, hearty vegetables, and tender chicken—but streamlined into a quick, one-pan pasta dinner that’s perfect for weeknights. The rich, savory flavor of the sauce soaks into every bite of pasta, making this a dish that feels like home with every forkful.

Unlike traditional pot pie recipes that require making a crust or baking in the oven, this easy skillet recipe cooks entirely on the stovetop in just one pan. That means less prep, faster cleanup, and more time to enjoy your evening. Whether you’re using rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or cooking fresh chicken breasts, this recipe is incredibly flexible and family-friendly.

The combination of creamy sauce, mixed vegetables, and tender shredded chicken brings back all the nostalgic flavors of a pot pie. It’s also a fantastic way to use up pantry staples and frozen vegetables you already have. According to Wikipedia’s article on one-pot meals, meals like these simplify cooking without sacrificing nutrition or taste. For more family-approved options, check out these comfort food dinner ideas on Pinterest, which show how versatile and satisfying one-skillet meals can be.

This dish is not just about saving time; it’s about maximizing flavor with minimal effort. As an ideal solution for busy families, it’s no surprise that one-pan chicken pasta dishes are trending in searches and on platforms like Pinterest. With this recipe, you’ll have a creamy, filling meal that can easily become part of your weekly dinner rotation.

Ingredients Breakdown and Variations

To make the best one pan chicken pot pie pasta skillet, it’s important to understand how each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor, texture, and comfort factor of the dish. This isn’t just another creamy pasta—it’s a smart fusion of classic chicken pot pie and creamy noodle skillet recipes that comes together fast with simple, accessible ingredients.

Main Ingredients

• Chicken: Use 1 pound of cooked chicken breast, either shredded or diced. This can be freshly cooked, leftover, or rotisserie chicken for convenience. As explained in the Wikipedia entry on chicken (food), poultry is a globally popular protein due to its versatility and lean profile.
• Pasta: Use 12 ounces of pasta like rotini, penne, or egg noodles. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well. Learn more about different types of pasta and how their textures affect sauce absorption.
• Mixed Vegetables: A 2-cup frozen blend of peas, carrots, and corn adds color, nutrition, and texture. These mimic the veggie base of a traditional pot pie filling.
• Aromatics:
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
    These build the flavor base of the dish and should be sautéed until fragrant.
• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics and help build the roux.
• Flour: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour are essential for creating a roux, which thickens the creamy sauce. Learn more about how a roux works in classic sauces and stews.
• Chicken Broth and Milk:
  • 2 cups of chicken broth
  • 1 cup of milk
    Together, they create a luscious, creamy texture. Use full-fat milk for extra richness.
• Parmesan Cheese: A half cup adds salty depth and binds everything together.
• Seasonings:
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
    These bring classic pot pie flavors into the pasta form.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): For color and a hint of freshness on top.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Alternatives: Try turkey, ham, or even ground chicken. This makes the recipe perfect for post-holiday leftovers or using up what’s in the fridge.
• Vegetable Options: Swap frozen veggies for fresh if you have time. Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini add depth and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use unsweetened almond milk and vegan Parmesan to make it lactose-free. Avoid coconut milk, which may overpower the savory flavors.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Pinterest has great gluten-free one pot chicken recipe ideas if you’re looking for more inspiration.
• Extra Creamy: Add a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream during the final stir-in for ultra-richness.

This versatile list shows how the chicken pot pie pasta can be customized for nearly every dietary preference while retaining its comfort food charm. If you’re meal prepping, these substitutions also make it easy to adapt for different members of your family, which is why it’s featured frequently in family dinner ideas on Pinterest.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions (With Tips)

Transforming classic pot pie flavors into a creamy, stovetop pasta dish is surprisingly simple. By following these straightforward steps, you can whip up a one pan chicken pot pie pasta skillet that delivers hearty comfort with minimal effort. Each stage of the process builds layers of flavor, ensuring every bite is creamy, well-seasoned, and satisfying.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add 12 oz of pasta (rotini, penne, or similar).
• Cook until just al dente, then drain and set aside.

Tip: Slightly undercook the pasta since it will finish cooking when mixed with the creamy sauce later. This prevents mushiness and keeps the noodles firm.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add 1 small diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until soft.
• Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 30 more seconds.

Tip: This aromatic base sets the stage for deep, savory flavor. For a richer taste, consider using butter instead of oil.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

• Stir in 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn).
• Cook for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are warmed through.

Frozen vegetables are not only convenient but also lock in nutrients. This step recreates the vegetable filling found in traditional pot pie recipes, offering texture and color.

Step 4: Build the Roux

• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the veggie mixture.
• Stir well to evenly coat the vegetables.
• Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.

According to Wikipedia’s guide on roux, cooking the flour properly is crucial to achieving a smooth, thick sauce without any pasty flavor.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

• Slowly pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk while stirring constantly.
• This prevents lumps and ensures a velvety texture.

Tip: Use a whisk to break up any clumps. Stirring slowly helps emulsify the fat and liquid together.

• Add ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes until it thickens.

This creamy base is the heart of the dish and mimics the filling in a classic chicken pot pie. For more inspiration on rich, comforting meals like this, browse comfort food dinner ideas on Pinterest.

Step 6: Add the Chicken

• Stir in 1 pound of shredded or diced cooked chicken.
• Heat through for 2–3 minutes until warmed and well combined.

Whether you’re using leftover roast chicken or store-bought rotisserie, this step quickly integrates protein into the dish. As noted in the Wikipedia article on chicken (food), poultry is a protein-rich, adaptable meat ideal for skillet meals.

Step 7: Stir in Pasta and Cheese

• Add the cooked pasta back into the skillet.
• Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce coats everything evenly.

Tip: Turn off the heat before adding cheese to prevent separation or clumping. Stir gently to keep the pasta intact.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
• Serve hot, directly from the skillet for a true one-pan experience.

This final step adds a pop of color and freshness. For more one-pan dinner inspiration, explore these weeknight dinner skillet meals on Pinterest, many of which follow similar preparation steps.

With just one pan, pantry staples, and a few fresh ingredients, you’ve made a dish that captures the essence of homemade chicken pot pie in a creamy, noodle-packed form.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Making one pan chicken pot pie pasta skillet doesn’t require a lot of equipment, which is part of its appeal. Here’s a list of the essential kitchen tools that will help you cook this meal efficiently and with minimal cleanup.

• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: This is your primary cooking vessel. Choose a deep, wide skillet or a medium-sized Dutch oven to ensure there’s enough room for the sauce, pasta, and chicken to mix evenly. If you’re curious about how this fits into broader cooking techniques, Wikipedia’s page on one-pot meals explains why cookware selection matters in recipes like this.
• Pasta Strainer or Colander: Use this to drain the pasta after it’s cooked. If you want to save time, cook your pasta first and set it aside while you prep the other ingredients.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: For dicing the onion and chopping any fresh herbs, like parsley, a sharp knife will give you precision and speed.
• Cutting Board: A clean, sturdy surface for prepping vegetables and herbs.
• Wooden Spoon or Heat-Resistant Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your skillet, and for evenly mixing your roux and sauce.
• Whisk: Crucial for creating a smooth sauce. Whisking while adding milk and broth helps prevent lumps and ensures a creamy consistency. If you’re experimenting with sauce-based pasta dishes, many chicken pot pie pasta recipes on Pinterest include helpful visuals of this step.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for adding the right amount of broth, milk, flour, and seasonings to get the flavor balance just right.

Using the right tools keeps this recipe quick and fuss-free, just as a true easy one-pan family dinner should be. With minimal prep and simple utensils, you can recreate that classic pot pie flavor in a modern, creamy skillet form.

Why This One-Pan Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Works

This one pan chicken pot pie pasta skillet with creamy noodles is more than just a time-saver — it’s a masterclass in flavor fusion and practical cooking. By combining the savory goodness of chicken pot pie with the speed and simplicity of a one-pot pasta meal, it delivers hearty comfort food in less than 30 minutes.

What makes this dish stand out is the way every ingredient is used to maximize taste and texture. The creamy sauce, made from milk, chicken broth, and a simple roux, clings to every piece of pasta while absorbing the flavor from the chicken and herbs. This technique is rooted in the basics of one-pot meal cooking, as described in Wikipedia’s article on one-pot meals, where flavor layering is essential for success in limited cooking environments.

The dish also has a balanced profile: carbs from the pasta, protein from the chicken, and fiber from the mixed vegetables. It’s a full meal without the need for side dishes, which makes it perfect for busy families, students, or anyone cooking on a time crunch. Many recipes that follow this format — like those featured in easy one pot chicken recipe ideas — are consistently saved and shared because they check every box: quick, satisfying, budget-friendly, and minimal cleanup.

Another reason it works is its universal appeal. The ingredients are simple and familiar, making it kid-friendly and ideal for picky eaters. Plus, the recipe is adaptable — you can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or boost the nutrition by adding greens like spinach or kale. The creamy texture and nostalgic pot pie flavor also bring a sense of comfort, especially during cooler months or as part of a cozy weeknight dinner plan.

This dish is a great example of how you can turn classic recipes into modern family meals without losing their soul. Whether you’re new to cooking or looking for fresh inspiration, it’s a reliable addition to any weekly menu.

Recipe Tips and Tricks for Best Results

To ensure your chicken pot pie pasta skillet turns out creamy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time, consider these pro tips and small adjustments that can make a big difference:

• Use Room Temperature Dairy: Cold milk can curdle when added to a hot roux. Let your milk sit out for 10–15 minutes before adding it to the skillet for a smoother sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Roux: The combination of flour and fat is essential to thickening the sauce. If you try to skip this step or rush it, the sauce may end up watery. Refer to the Wikipedia article on roux to understand how this base creates rich sauces in many traditional dishes.
• Pre-Cooked Chicken Shortcut: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor, especially if it’s well-seasoned. Shredding it finely allows it to absorb the creamy sauce even better.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Once your liquids are added, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Boiling can cause the milk to separate and the sauce to become grainy.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds superior flavor.
• Add Pasta Gradually: Stir the cooked pasta into the sauce slowly to make sure everything is evenly coated and the noodles don’t break apart.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, always taste your sauce and add a bit more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed to balance the flavor.

Following these small but important steps ensures your pasta is perfectly creamy and loaded with comforting flavor every single time. If you’re looking for visual guidance or similar comforting pasta recipes, explore popular family dinner ideas on Pinterest for inspiration and variations.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Instructions

This one-pan chicken pot pie pasta is not only great for immediate enjoyment—it also stores and reheats well, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Prep in Advance: You can sauté the vegetables, make the sauce, and shred the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Pasta Freshness: Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve to avoid it getting too soft or soggy in storage.

Storage:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freezing isn’t ideal for this dish due to the dairy-based sauce, which can separate and become grainy when reheated. However, if needed, freeze in portions and reheat gently with added liquid.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Add a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce, then cover and reheat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring often, and add extra liquid as needed to restore creaminess.

Proper storage and reheating preserve the dish’s creamy texture and flavor. For more ideas like this, browse weeknight dinner skillet meals on Pinterest that hold up well as leftovers.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with light, fresh sides enhances the experience and balances the rich, creamy flavors.

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp romaine or mixed greens salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus make healthy and simple side options.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
• Drinks: Serve with sparkling water with lemon or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness.
• Kid-Friendly Additions: Add apple slices or steamed broccoli on the side for younger eaters.

These easy sides round out the meal without adding much extra prep, staying true to the quick and satisfying dinner concept. You can explore more comfort pairings under comfort food dinner ideas on Pinterest.

Customization Ideas (How to Make It Your Own)

One of the biggest benefits of this recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re feeding kids, cooking for special diets, or just want to use what you have on hand, here are a few ways to make it your own:

• Add a Crunchy Topping: Turn this into a deconstructed pot pie by topping the skillet with toasted breadcrumbs or crumbled biscuits before serving.
• Make it a Casserole: Transfer the finished dish to a baking dish, top with puff pastry or biscuit dough, and bake until golden brown for a classic pot pie twist.
• Add More Veggies: Throw in spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or kale during the vegetable sauté for added nutrients and texture.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat.
• Try Other Proteins: Turkey, ham, or even ground chicken can replace the shredded chicken.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk and vegan cheese. For inspiration, check easy one pot chicken recipe ideas on Pinterest that follow dairy-free substitutions.

These customizations help you get the most out of the recipe while ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Nutritional Information (Optional)

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving (based on 6 servings total). Exact values will vary depending on ingredients used:

• Calories: 480–520
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 780mg

To make this dish lighter, consider reducing the cheese, using low-fat milk, or substituting whole grain pasta. If you want to indulge, add cream cheese or heavy cream to elevate the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use uncooked pasta in a one-pan recipe?
You can, but you’ll need to add more liquid (broth and milk) and increase the cooking time. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, and use a plant-based cheese. Avoid coconut milk unless you want a hint of sweetness.

What vegetables work best for chicken pot pie pasta?
Classic combinations include peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. Fresh or frozen both work well. For a gourmet twist, add mushrooms or spinach.

Can I freeze creamy chicken pasta?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Dairy sauces often separate when frozen and thawed. If you must freeze, stir well while reheating and add extra broth or milk to restore consistency.

How do I thicken the sauce more?
Add more flour during the roux step, or let the sauce simmer uncovered a bit longer. You can also stir in a small amount of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.

What pasta works best for this recipe?
Rotini, penne, and egg noodles hold sauce well and maintain their shape. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine.

Print