In the heart of the Midwest, few dishes evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like a classic pot pie. But what if you could take those familiar flavors and transform them into a new, family-friendly favorite? Enter Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta—a delightful fusion of creamy chicken pot pie and hearty pasta. This easy, hands-off recipe allows you to enjoy all the rich, comforting tastes of a pot pie, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker, while you go about your day.
As the chicken, vegetables, and herbs meld together in the slow cooker, your home will be filled with an aroma that calls everyone to the kitchen—just like in the old days. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in homemade vinaigrette, a side of crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to mop up the creamy sauce, and finish off with a classic dessert like apple pie or vanilla ice cream to create the perfect Midwestern meal.
Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Recipe
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chicken breast, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:
In a large slow cooker, combine the cooked, chopped chicken, frozen peas and carrots, frozen corn, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. These classic pot pie vegetables and tender chicken create a hearty base for the dish.
Add the Liquids and Cream Cheese:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything well to combine. Add the softened cream cheese, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula so it melts evenly as it cooks. The cream cheese and heavy cream contribute to the sauce’s rich, velvety texture.
Season and Start Cooking:
Season with dried thyme, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom and that all ingredients meld together harmoniously.
Prepare the Pasta:
About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles or pasta of your choice according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. The pasta should be slightly firm (al dente) as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
Finish and Serve:
Once the slow cooking time is up, stir in the cooked egg noodles and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well-coated and the cheese is melted. The Parmesan adds a nutty, savory note that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the dish and add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor and a burst of color.
Tips and Variations
Make It Lighter: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with milk or half-and-half and use low-fat cream cheese. This change will still provide a creamy consistency without the extra calories.
Short on Time? Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast. Simply chop or shred the rotisserie chicken and add it directly to the slow cooker.
Mix Up the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand. Green beans, sliced mushrooms, or even diced potatoes make excellent additions.
Boost the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving for a fresh, herbaceous touch. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
Change the Pasta: While egg noodles are a classic choice, you can use any pasta you prefer—such as rotini, penne, or bowties. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options also work well for dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta combines everything you love about a traditional pot pie—the creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables—with the ease and simplicity of pasta. Cooking the dish in a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, satisfying meal that requires minimal hands-on time. The cream cheese and Parmesan create an indulgently creamy sauce, while the addition of pasta makes it filling and comforting—perfect for those chilly evenings or busy weeknights when you want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie Pasta
This dish is filling on its own, but if you want to make it part of a larger meal, consider these complementary sides:
- Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed in a light vinaigrette provides a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta.
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: A side of warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or butternut squash for added color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Apple Pie or Ice Cream: For dessert, a slice of classic apple pie or a bowl of vanilla ice cream adds a sweet, comforting finish to this Midwestern-inspired meal.
Storing and Reheating
Storing: Allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can also freeze the dish for longer storage. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top to accommodate expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Pasta is a modern twist on a classic comfort food, offering all the creamy, savory goodness of chicken pot pie in a hearty pasta dish. It’s an ideal meal for busy families who want to enjoy the flavors of a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your home.
Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or preparing it for a crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and experience the delicious comfort of a pot pie-inspired pasta dish that’s as easy as it is satisfying!