Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food. A warm, savory filling of chicken and vegetables wrapped in a flaky, golden crust — what’s not to love? Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, chicken pot pie never fails to impress.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the filling to baking the perfect crust.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Pot Pie
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 1 cup of carrots, diced
- 1 cup of peas
- 1/2 cup of celery, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 cup of potatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth
- 2/3 cup of milk (whole or 2% for a creamy texture)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (for a deeper flavor)
Essential Equipment for Making Chicken Pot Pie
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Baking dish (9-inch pie plate or a casserole dish)
- Whisk
- Rolling pin (if making your crust)
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie
It’s easier than you think to make a crowd-pleasing homemade chicken pot pie. You’ll find the step-by step recipe below, but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
You can start by boiling or roasting your chicken breasts. Boiling is quicker, but roasting gives a richer flavor. To boil, place the chicken breasts in a pot of water and cook for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. If roasting, drizzle the chicken with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
Step 2: Shredding or Chopping the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, allow it to cool slightly before shredding or chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.
Preparing the Vegetables
Step 1: Choosing Your Vegetables
Classic chicken pot pie calls for carrots, peas, celery, onions, and potatoes, but feel free to customize! Green beans, corn, or mushrooms work just as well.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add the peas toward the end, as they cook quickly.
Making the Creamy Filling
Step 1: Creating a Roux
To make the creamy sauce, start by creating a roux. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce.
Step 2: Adding Broth and Milk
Slowly add the chicken broth while continuing to stir. Once the mixture starts to thicken, stir in the milk. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-5 minutes until it reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and any other desired herbs.
Step 3: Combining Chicken and Vegetables
Add the shredded chicken to the vegetable and sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated and the filling is thick and creamy. If it feels too thick, add a bit more broth.
Choosing the Perfect Crust for Chicken Pot Pie
Store-Bought vs. Homemade Crust
While a store-bought crust can save time, nothing beats the flaky goodness of a homemade crust. If you’re feeling ambitious, a simple pastry dough made from flour, butter, and cold water can elevate your pot pie to the next level. If using store-bought, go for a high-quality one to get the best results.
Tips for a Flaky Pie Crust
- Use cold butter and water when making your crust.
- Handle the dough as little as possible to avoid toughening it.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out to keep it firm.
Assembling the Chicken Pot Pie
Step 1: Lining the Baking Dish with the Crust
Roll out your pie crust and carefully line your baking dish with the bottom crust. Press it gently into the corners to ensure an even layer.
Step 2: Filling the Pie with the Creamy Mixture
Pour the creamy chicken and vegetable filling into the crust. Spread it out evenly with a spoon to make sure every bite gets a good amount of chicken and sauce.
Step 3: Covering with the Top Crust
Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. If using a rectangular dish, a puff pastry sheet can be an excellent alternative for the top crust.
Sealing and Decorating the Pie
Crimping the Edges
Seal the edges by pressing them together with your fingers or using a fork to create a decorative pattern. This step prevents the filling from leaking out.
Adding Slits for Steam
Make a few small slits in the top crust with a sharp knife. These allow steam to escape while baking and keep the crust from becoming soggy.
Optional Decorative Touches
If you’re feeling creative, use extra dough to cut out small shapes (like leaves or hearts) to decorate the top of your pie. Brush the crust with a beaten egg for a glossy, golden finish.
Baking the Chicken Pot Pie
Ideal Baking Temperature and Time
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
How to Check for Doneness
The pie is ready when the crust is fully golden, and you can see the filling bubbling through the slits in the crust.
Letting the Pie Rest
Once baked, let the chicken pot pie rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing into it. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken pot pie is rich and hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies. You can also serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the creamy filling.
Tips for Customizing Your Chicken Pot Pie
Substitutions for a Healthier Version
- Use whole-wheat crust for added fiber.
- Substitute heavy cream with light cream or milk for a lighter sauce.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or kale for more nutrients.
Different Protein or Vegetable Options
Switch things up by using turkey, ham, or even tofu instead of chicken. You can also experiment with seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
Adding Herbs for Extra Flavor
Fresh herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley can enhance the flavors of your pot pie. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Storing and Reheating Chicken Pot Pie
Best Methods for Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
To reheat, place the pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This keeps the crust crispy, unlike microwaving, which can make it soggy.
FAQs about Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
1. What ingredients do I need for a chicken pot pie?
For a classic chicken pot pie, you’ll need cooked chicken, mixed vegetables (like carrots, peas, and corn), chicken broth, a pie crust, and seasonings. You can also add onions, garlic, and cream for a richer flavor.
2. Can I make chicken pot pie in advance?
Yes, chicken pot pie can be prepared in advance. You can either freeze the unbaked pie and cook it later or bake it, allow it to cool, and then refrigerate. Reheat in the oven for best results.
3. How long does it take to bake a chicken pot pie?
Typically, a chicken pot pie takes about 30 to 40 minutes to bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
4. What are some variations of chicken pot pie?
You can experiment with different fillings like mushrooms, bacon, or different cheeses. For a lighter version, try using phyllo dough or puff pastry instead of traditional pie crust.
5. Is chicken pot pie healthy?
Chicken pot pie can be adjusted to be healthier by using low-fat milk, increasing the vegetables, and using a lighter crust. Consider using whole wheat flour for the crust to add fiber.
6. How do I thicken the filling for my chicken pot pie?
To thicken the filling, you can use a mixture of flour or cornstarch with water. Add this mixture to your filling as it cooks to reach the desired consistency.
7. Can I use leftover chicken for the pot pie?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken is perfect for pot pie. It not only saves time but also makes this dish an excellent option for using up leftovers.
Conclusion
In summary, crafting a homemade chicken pot pie from scratch is a delightful endeavor that brings together rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a standout dish in any meal repertoire. By following our recipe, you’ll enjoy the seamless blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetables, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust.
The effort put into making your pot pie is rewarded with a depth of flavor and a sense of accomplishment that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Embrace the process and treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly homemade culinary experience that epitomizes home-cooked comfort.
Making chicken pot pie at home allows you to tailor ingredients to your liking, ensuring every forkful meets your personal taste perfectly.
