Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Pot Pie is a beloved comfort food that warms the soul and fills the belly. With its flaky crust, savory chicken, and colorful vegetables, this dish brings the essence of home cooking straight to your table. Whether you’re feeding your family after a busy day or entertaining friends with a hearty meal, Chicken Pot Pie is sure to be a hit. Follow this classic recipe to create a delicious, wholesome dish that is both satisfying and easy to make.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 350
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg

Why Make This Chicken Pot Pie

This Chicken Pot Pie recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to use leftover chicken. The creamy filling, made with tender vegetables and juicy chicken, is encased in a buttery crust that gets golden and flaky in the oven. It’s a warm hug in a dish, perfect for cozy nights. Plus, this recipe is customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy a home-cooked meal that brings everyone together at the table.

How to Make Chicken Pot Pie

Making Chicken Pot Pie is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. With just a few easy steps, you’ll create a delicious pie that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup peas
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 2 pie crusts

Directions:

• Step 1: Preheating the Oven

  Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

• Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables

  In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, then sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

• Step 3: Thickening the Filling

  Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles.

• Step 4: Combining Ingredients

  Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme until well combined.

• Step 5: Assembling the Pie

  Pour the filling mixture into one of the pie crusts placed in a pie dish. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges with your fingers or fork. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.

• Step 6: Baking to Perfection

  Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie

Serve your Chicken Pot Pie warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish is also perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, providing comfort in every bite.

How to Store Chicken Pot Pie

To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will keep for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

1. Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a great way to utilize leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
2. Veggie Variations: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables, such as corn, green beans, or mushrooms, to customize the filling.
3. Thickening Tips: If your filling seems too runny, add a bit more flour or cornstarch to thicken it up before pouring it into the crust.
4. Egg Wash: For a glossy finish, brush the top crust with a beaten egg before baking.
5. Serve with a Smile: A homemade Chicken Pot Pie is best enjoyed warm and shared with loved ones; don’t forget to smile as you serve!

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Pot Pie: Replace chicken with a variety of veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and potatoes for a veggie-packed version.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make Chicken Pot Pie in advance?
  Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie in advance. Store it covered in the fridge before baking for up to 24 hours.

• Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie?
  Absolutely! Unbaked Chicken Pot Pie can be wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months. Just add a little extra baking time when you cook it from frozen.

• How do I know when the pie is done?
  The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Use a knife to check that the filling is hot in the center.

• What sides go well with Chicken Pot Pie?
  A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness of Chicken Pot Pie very well. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes for extra comfort.

• What if I don’t have pie crusts?
  You can make a simple homemade pie crust with flour, butter, and water, or use phyllo dough for a lighter version.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish that evokes the feeling of home, Chicken Pot Pie is the answer. With its flaky crust and rich filling, it’s perfect for any occasion. Dive into this delightful recipe, let the delicious aromas fill your kitchen, and enjoy the satisfying taste of homemade comfort food. Happy cooking!