Introduction

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that is beloved by many for its savory filling and flaky crust. This dish combines tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a golden-brown pastry. It is perfect for family dinners, chilly evenings, or any occasion when you crave warmth and nostalgia.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken: 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced
Vegetables: 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Butter: 1/3 cup
Flour: 1/3 cup
Chicken broth: 1 ¾ cups
Milk: 1 cup
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Pepper: ½ teaspoon
Thyme: 1 teaspoon dried
Pie crust: 2 (store-bought or homemade)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this chicken pot pie is approximately 20 minutes. This includes chopping vegetables and preparing the filling before assembling the pie.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the chicken pot pie is about 30-35 minutes. In total, from prep to finish, you can expect a total time of around 55-60 minutes. This recipe typically yields 6 servings, making it a great option for families or meal prepping for the week.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until it is no longer pink in the center. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet, allow it to cool, and then shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing them for about 5-7 minutes or until they become tender.

Add Garlic and Herbs

Stir in minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Create the Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to combine. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and then the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer until it thickens.

Add Chicken and Peas

Once the sauce has thickened, add the shredded chicken and frozen peas to the skillet. Mix until everything is well coated and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Pie Crust

Roll out your pie dough on a floured surface. You will need a top and bottom crust for the pot pie. Place one crust in a pie dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.

Assemble the Pot Pie

Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the pie crust. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges by crimping them together. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake the Pot Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled pot pie on a baking sheet to catch any overflow. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly.

Notes

Chicken Options

You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, simply shred it and add it to the filling.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on your preferences; mushrooms, corn, or green beans can also work well.

Gluten-Free Option

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use a gluten-free pie crust.

Storage Instructions

Leftover pot pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked pot pies for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the bake time.

Cook techniques

Prepping Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken until it is tender and fully cooked through. This can be achieved through boiling, baking, or sautéing.

Making the Sauce

Create a creamy sauce by combining butter, flour, broth, and milk, which helps to thicken the mixture and add flavor.

Vegetable Preparation

Sauté your choice of vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding them to the pie. Common choices include carrots, peas, and celery.

Assembling the Pie

Layer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, and pour the sauce over them to ensure even distribution.

Crust Preparation

Use a pre-made pie crust or make your own. Blind bake it slightly to prevent a soggy bottom when the filling is added.

Baking the Pie

Bake the assembled pot pie until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, which indicates that it’s fully cooked.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought chicken?

Yes, using rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken can save time and still yield delicious results.

What vegetables work best in chicken pot pie?

Carrots, peas, corn, and celery are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

How can I make the crust flakier?

Incorporate cold butter or shortening into your crust and avoid overworking the dough.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and crust ahead of time. Assemble the pie before baking for the best results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Conclusion

Chicken pot pie is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any meal. With its flaky crust and hearty filling, it’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion. This versatile recipe can be customized with various vegetables and proteins, making it a favorite in many households. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make chicken pot pie a timeless favorite.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Pot Pie

Swap out chicken for a medley of seasonal vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and peas for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Turkey Pot Pie

Repurpose leftover turkey from the holidays into a savory turkey pot pie, adding a festive touch to your meal.

Shepherd’s Pie

Try a shepherd’s pie as a twist, using ground beef or lamb and topping it with creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty dish.

Chicken and Biscuit Casserole

Combine the flavors of chicken pot pie with fluffy biscuits for a quick and easy casserole that’s sure to please.

Buffalo Chicken Pot Pie

Add a spicy kick by incorporating buffalo sauce into the filling, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.

Seafood Pot Pie

Experiment with seafood by using shrimp or crab in place of chicken, paired with a creamy white sauce for a coastal twist.