Chicken Pot Pie

This Chicken Pot Pie is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, creamy filling of chicken and vegetables is enveloped in a golden, flaky crust that crisps beautifully when baked. It’s a warm and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion when you want to feel cozy and content.

The addition of tender chicken and savory vegetables makes this pie not only delicious but also packed with flavor. The buttery pie crust is the star, flaking apart in the most satisfying way with each bite. The creamy filling offers a balanced, hearty taste, while the comforting texture of the crust brings it all together. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the flour, and cook for another minute until golden, creating a roux.
4. Slowly add chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then add milk or cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken for 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. Roll out one of the pie crusts and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the pie crust.
7. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges and cut a few slits in the top crust for ventilation.
8. Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
10. Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Why This Chicken Pot Pie Is a Must-Try:

Chicken Pot Pie is a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. With its creamy filling of tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce, all nestled within a golden, buttery crust, it’s a dish that brings people together around the dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or serving it as a cozy dinner for yourself, this classic pie is sure to hit the spot.

The Perfect Combination of Flaky and Creamy:

One of the reasons Chicken Pot Pie is so beloved is the contrast between the flaky pie crust and the creamy, hearty filling. The pie crust, golden and crisp on the outside, gives way to a creamy filling made with chicken, vegetables, and a luscious gravy. This satisfying combination of textures is irresistible.

The recipe is easily adaptable depending on your preferences. You can use store-bought pie crusts for convenience or make your own for an extra touch of homemade goodness. Additionally, you can swap in fresh vegetables or use what you have on hand—whether it’s carrots, peas, corn, or even sweet potatoes.

Customizable for Dietary Preferences:

While this recipe is traditional and uses dairy and chicken, it’s quite versatile. For a dairy-free version, simply swap the butter and cream for plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut cream. You can also make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust and ensuring your flour is gluten-free.

For a vegetarian twist, you can leave out the chicken and use a mixture of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and potatoes, with a little extra vegetable broth to keep it creamy and flavorful.

A Family Favorite for All Occasions:

This Chicken Pot Pie is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even holiday feasts. It’s easy to make in advance—just prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake. You can even freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months and bake it straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a wonderful one to have in your rotation. It’s comforting, simple, and absolutely delicious—truly a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for the Best Chicken Pot Pie:

• For Extra Flavor: You can elevate the flavor of the filling by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. A splash of white wine or sherry also adds depth to the sauce.
• Pie Crust: If you’re using store-bought pie crusts, make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before rolling them out to avoid cracking. If you’re making your own crust, ensure the butter is cold and use chilled water to achieve the flakiest texture.
• Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for this recipe because it’s already cooked and adds rich flavor. If using fresh chicken, cook it first, then chop or shred it before adding it to the filling.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the pie a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. For freezing, assemble the pie, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen (with an extended baking time).

Serving Suggestions:

Chicken Pot Pie is a hearty, standalone dish, but you can serve it with a simple side salad for a more balanced meal. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie, while roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes can make the meal even more filling.

History of Chicken Pot Pie: A Timeless Comfort Food

Chicken Pot Pie, like many classic comfort foods, has deep roots in history. Its origins can be traced back to the British Isles, where savory pies filled with meat and vegetables were a staple of home cooking. The concept of a “pot pie” likely came about in medieval times when meat pies were used to preserve the filling and keep it moist, often baked inside a thick, doughy crust.

The American version of Chicken Pot Pie became popular in the mid-20th century, particularly as frozen food companies introduced pre-made pies to the mass market. Today, it remains a beloved dish, known for its warming qualities and satisfying combination of creamy filling and crispy crust.

The Secret to a Perfectly Flaky Pie Crust

A well-made pie crust is the cornerstone of any great Chicken Pot Pie. While store-bought crusts are convenient, nothing beats the taste and texture of homemade dough. Here’s a simple breakdown of how to make the perfect pie crust:

1. Use Cold Ingredients: The key to a flaky crust is keeping the butter and water as cold as possible. This helps create those delicious, flaky layers when baked.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the dough just enough to bring it together. Overmixing can result in a tough crust, so gently fold in the flour and butter until combined.
3. Chill the Dough: After forming the dough, chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This gives the butter time to firm up and prevents the dough from becoming too soft.

If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience of pre-made crusts, opt for high-quality, all-butter pie crusts for the best flavor and texture.

Making It with Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

One of the easiest ways to save time without sacrificing flavor is to use a rotisserie chicken. Store-bought rotisserie chickens are flavorful, tender, and already cooked, which significantly cuts down on the prep time for this dish. Simply shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and it’s ready to go!

Not only does rotisserie chicken make this recipe quicker, but it also adds an extra layer of depth to the flavor of the pie, especially if you use the skin and bones to make a rich homemade chicken broth (which can be used in the pie filling as well).

Making a Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie

For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, making a gluten-free Chicken Pot Pie is entirely possible without compromising on flavor or texture. Here’s how:

1. Gluten-Free Pie Crust: Many stores offer gluten-free pie crust options, or you can make your own using a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to use a recipe that includes ingredients like xanthan gum to mimic the structure of traditional gluten.
2. Thickening the Filling: Instead of using regular all-purpose flour to make the roux for your sauce, you can substitute gluten-free flour blends or cornstarch. Cornstarch can work especially well, as it thickens without affecting the flavor.
3. Dairy-Free Option: If you’re also looking for a dairy-free option, swap out the milk or cream for a plant-based alternative, such as almond milk or coconut milk. Choose a variety that’s unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor of the pie.

Vegetable Variations for Extra Flavor

While the traditional Chicken Pot Pie uses a standard combination of peas, carrots, and corn, don’t be afraid to get creative with your vegetable choices. Some delicious additions include:

• Mushrooms: Their earthy flavor adds depth to the filling.
• Potatoes: Use small diced potatoes for a heartier pie.
• Leeks: Offer a slightly milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions.
• Green Beans or Asparagus: For a spring twist, use tender green beans or asparagus.
• Sweet Potatoes: For a sweet contrast, replace regular potatoes with cubed roasted sweet potatoes.

You can also mix and match vegetables depending on the season. Root vegetables like parsnips or turnips work well in the fall and winter, while fresh zucchini or bell peppers add a vibrant pop in the warmer months.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Chicken Pot Pie can be enjoyed for several days, and the leftovers often taste even better as the flavors meld together. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

• Storing: Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is hot and crispy again. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but the crust won’t be as crispy. If reheating from frozen, bake directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.
• Freezing: Chicken Pot Pie freezes beautifully. You can freeze it before baking or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.

Making Chicken Pot Pie Ahead of Time

One of the best things about Chicken Pot Pie is that it can be made ahead of time. This makes it an ideal dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. Here’s how to prepare it in advance:

1. Assemble the Pie: Follow the recipe up until the point where the pie is ready to go into the oven. Instead of baking, cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
2. Bake When Ready: When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven, and bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

This method not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to develop further, making your Chicken Pot Pie even more delicious.

Conclusion

Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. With its rich, creamy filling and buttery, flaky crust, it’s a dish that combines both flavor and nostalgia, making it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner, holiday gathering, or simply a cozy weeknight meal.

The beauty of Chicken Pot Pie lies in its versatility. You can adapt it to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or what’s in season. From using rotisserie chicken for convenience to swapping in a variety of vegetables, there’s no shortage of ways to make this recipe your own. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish even on the busiest of days.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to the kitchen, this Chicken Pot Pie is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Its delicious combination of flavors and textures will have everyone coming back for seconds, and there’s no doubt it will become a cherished favorite in your home.