01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz short pasta (such as rotini or penne) and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This ensures your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta: Quick & Protein-Loaded has perfectly cooked noodles.
02 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tbsp unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces, seasoned with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 -
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tbsp unsalted butter to the pot. Add 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and 1 tsp dried thyme; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 -
Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the onion mixture, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1/2 cup whole milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
05 -
Add 4 oz cream cheese, softened, to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This forms the luscious base for your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta: Quick & Protein-Loaded.
06 -
Return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) and the drained 8 oz short pasta. Mix gently to combine all ingredients. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
07 -
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional kosher salt and black pepper, if needed. Serve your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta: Quick & Protein-Loaded hot, garnished with 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for a burst of freshness.