Introduction

Healthy chicken pot pie is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. This recipe reimagines the traditional pot pie by incorporating wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious option for family dinners. With this recipe, you can enjoy a classic comfort food while keeping health in mind.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Vegetables: 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup celery, diced; 1 cup peas
Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Broth: 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Cream: 1/2 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
Crust: 1 whole wheat pie crust or your preferred crust option

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook diced chicken over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Filling

3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant.
4. Stir in chopped carrots and celery, cooking until softened, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables and Broth

5. Add frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Pour in chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Thicken the Mixture

7. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, cornstarch, thyme, and fennel.
8. Gradually add the almond milk mixture to the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

9. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well to combine everything evenly.

Prepare the Pie Crust

10. Roll out your pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
11. Place the crust in the dish and fill it with the chicken and vegetable mixture.

Add Top Crust

12. If desired, add a top layer of pie crust or make a lattice top with additional dough.
13. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake the Pie

14. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

15. Allow the pot pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Chicken Options

– Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

Vegetable Variations

– You can substitute or add other vegetables like mushrooms or corn according to your preference.

Crust Choices

– For a healthier option, consider using a whole wheat or gluten-free pie crust.

Storage

– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for longer preservation.

Cook techniques

How to Make a Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Crust

To create a wholesome crust for your chicken pot pie, consider using a combination of whole wheat flour and coconut oil. This method provides a nutty flavor and a healthier fat choice. You can also incorporate Greek yogurt to enhance the texture and moisture.

Cooking Chicken Efficiently

For tender and juicy chicken, poach your chicken breasts in low-sodium broth. Poaching at a low temperature ensures the chicken stays moist without drying out, making it a perfect filling for your pot pie.

Preparing Vegetables

When chopping vegetables for the filling, opt for a variety of colors and textures. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds visual appeal to your dish. Sautéing them before adding to the filling allows the flavors to deepen.

Thickening the Filling

To thicken your chicken pot pie filling, use a mixture of cornstarch and cold water. This slurry can be added to the mixture toward the end of cooking to achieve the desired consistency without clumps.

Baking the Pie

Bake your chicken pot pie in a preheated oven at the recommended temperature for an even, golden crust. Placing a baking sheet underneath can catch any spills and prevent a messy oven.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a store-bought crust if you prefer convenience, but making your own allows for healthier ingredients.

What type of chicken is best to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and are leaner.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it in the fridge, then assemble and bake the pie when ready to serve.

Is it possible to freeze chicken pot pie?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pot pie before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What vegetables can I add to the filling?

You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, and green beans. Feel free to customize based on your preferences.

Conclusion

The healthy chicken pot pie recipe offers a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic comfort food. By using wholesome ingredients and a lightened-up crust, it provides a satisfying meal without the guilt. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, ensuring everyone will enjoy its heartwarming flavors.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Pot Pie

Try a vegetable pot pie filled with seasonal veggies like carrots, peas, and mushrooms for a vegetarian delight.

Turkey Pot Pie

Substitute the chicken with turkey for a hearty turkey pot pie that’s perfect for using up leftovers.

Chicken and Dumplings

Create a comforting dish by transforming your chicken pot pie into chicken and dumplings, adding fluffy dumplings on top.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake

Mix chicken with a creamy Alfredo sauce and pasta, topped with cheese for a decadent baked dish.

Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Skillet

Combine flavors of spinach and artichoke with chicken for a healthy skillet dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Quinoa and Chicken Casserole

Swap out traditional crust with quinoa for a nutritious casserole that’s packed with flavor and protein.

Chicken Enchiladas

Roll filling into tortillas and top with enchilada sauce for a zesty chicken enchilada dish that delivers a kick.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Salad

Make a refreshing salad with grilled chicken, mixed greens, and a zesty lemon herb dressing for a light lunch option.