Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Create a comforting classic with this Chicken Pot Pie recipe, featuring tender chunks of chicken, seasonal vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a flaky golden crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is a delicious way to warm up your home and satisfy your cravings. Experience the ultimate blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
This Chicken Pot Pie is a timeless favorite that brings comfort and warmth to the dinner table. Enjoy the delightful medley of flavors in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights.
- Uses wholesome ingredients for a healthier twist.
- A family favorite that everyone will enjoy.
A Cozy Family Favorite
Chicken pot pie has long been a beloved dish in many households, treasured for its rich flavors and comforting nature. This recipe enhances that classic appeal, making it easy for families to come together over a delicious meal. You can personalize the filling with your favorite vegetables or even add herbs for a unique twist. Whether it's a chilly evening or a busy weekday, this dish guarantees satisfaction and warmth.
The appeal of chicken pot pie lies in its versatility. You can easily incorporate leftover chicken or seasonal vegetables you have on hand. This not only reduces waste but also offers a great way to introduce new flavors to the mix. By adapting this recipe to suit your family's preferences, you'll create a memorable meal that invites everyone to the dinner table.
Wholesome Ingredients for Healthier Home Cooking
More than just a comfort food staple, this chicken pot pie can be made with wholesome ingredients that contribute to a healthier meal option. The use of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a homemade sauce ensures you're feeding your loved ones nutrient-rich ingredients while still indulging in a satisfying meal. Cooking from scratch allows for control over what goes in, ensuring you can avoid unnecessary preservatives and additives often found in store-bought alternatives.
Making this dish from scratch not only enhances the flavor but also creates a cooking experience that's engaging and rewarding. Involving family members in the preparation can be a fun bonding activity. Children especially enjoy helping to mix the filling or brush the dough, making mealtime a memorable event.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the many wonderful aspects of chicken pot pie is how well it lends itself to meal prep. Prepare a batch on the weekend, and you have a hearty meal ready for busy weeknights. Simply reheat portions in the oven or microwave, making dinner time simple and stress-free. The flavors meld beautifully when refrigerated, often tasting even better the next day.
Leftover pot pie is a delightful treat for lunch! Slice it into individual portions to easily pack for work or school. Its combination of protein, vegetables, and carbs makes for a well-rounded meal that’s just as comforting the next day as it is fresh out of the oven.
Ingredients
Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pie Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Combine all ingredients to create a savory filling for your pie.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add celery and carrots, cooking until tender. Stir in flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened. Add in chicken, peas, and potatoes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a pie dish. Fill with chicken mixture. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing edges. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Cool before serving.
Let the pot pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Pot Pie
To achieve a flaky and golden crust, ensure your pie crusts are cold before using. You can chill them in the refrigerator for a bit before assembly. Additionally, brushing the top crust with beaten egg not only gives it a lovely sheen but also enhances the golden color while baking.
For added flavor, consider sprinkling some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the filling. These subtle additions can elevate the dish and make it even more delicious. Adjust the spice levels according to your family's preferences, and don't hesitate to experiment with different chicken cuts, such as thighs for more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken pot pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad on the side. The refreshing crunch of vegetables complements the creamy filling and rich crust perfectly, creating a balanced meal. A simple vinaigrette or citrus dressing can enhance the salad's flavor without overpowering the pie itself.
For an extra touch, serve the pot pie alongside a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, which can bring out the dish’s savory notes. Alternatively, for family-friendly options, sparkling water infused with lemon or lime makes a refreshing accompaniment.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chicken pot pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheating in the oven is preferable for maintaining the crust's crispiness. Cover it with foil to prevent over-browning and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze the unbaked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, you can cook it directly from frozen; just add a bit of extra baking time and check that it's cooked through before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie, then refrigerate it before baking.
→ What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use turkey or rotisserie chicken as an alternative.
Chicken Pot Pie
Create a comforting classic with this Chicken Pot Pie recipe, featuring tender chunks of chicken, seasonal vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a flaky golden crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish is a delicious way to warm up your home and satisfy your cravings. Experience the ultimate blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Created by: Tessa Wright
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pie Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add celery and carrots, cooking until tender. Stir in flour, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened. Add in chicken, peas, and potatoes. Remove from heat.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a pie dish. Fill with chicken mixture. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing edges. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g