Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the comforting flavors of homemade Chicken Pot Pie with this easy-to-follow recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all enveloped in a flaky crust, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. Learn how to create this classic favorite that will surely warm hearts and satisfy appetites.
This Chicken Pot Pie recipe has been passed down through generations and carries the warmth of home-cooked meals. It's a dish that brings families together, making every meal a cherished memory.
A Comforting Classic
Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug in a dish. This classic recipe holds a special place in many hearts, as it evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights. Packed with juicy chunks of chicken and an array of colorful vegetables, each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the flaky crust, making it a satisfying choice that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Creating your own Chicken Pot Pie at home allows for customization to suit your family's tastes. Want to add more vegetables? Go for it! Prefer a spicier kick? Feel free to adjust the seasonings. This recipe serves as a perfect base for experimentation while preserving the essence of the classic dish we know and love.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Chicken Pot Pie is a versatile dish that fits seamlessly into various occasions. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, celebrating a special event, or simply seeking comfort on a chilly evening, this dish is sure to please. It's a fantastic option for potlucks, as it can be easily made in large batches and transported in pie form, ensuring no one goes home hungry.
Moreover, leftovers taste even better the next day, making Chicken Pot Pie a smart choice for meal prep. Just reheat, and you'll have a delicious home-cooked meal ready in no time, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect Chicken Pot Pie, ensure that your chicken is thoroughly cooked and seasoned before incorporating it into the filling. If you're using leftover chicken, simply shred it into bite-sized pieces. It's advisable to opt for a mixture of white and dark meat for a richer flavor profile. Additionally, consider using a rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy shortcut without compromising taste.
Another crucial tip is to always let your pie cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting time allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve, while also enhancing the overall flavor as the ingredients meld together. Don't skip this step if you want to impress your guests!
Ingredients
For the filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
For the crust
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the filling
In a large skillet, add onions and celery and sauté until softened. Stir in carrots, peas, and potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
Make the sauce
Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stir well, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well and remove from heat.
Assemble the pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a pie dish, fill with the chicken mixture, and cover with the second pie crust. Seal edges and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake the pie
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pot Pie with a side salad or your favorite bread.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Pot Pie is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the dining experience by serving it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. You can also pair it with crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce, making for a hearty meal.
Consider garnishing your Chicken Pot Pie with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also elevates the dish's flavor, providing that fresh touch to a classic recipe.
Storage and Reheating
Storing your Chicken Pot Pie is easy! If you have leftovers, allow the pie to cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When reheating, consider using the oven instead of the microwave to retain the crust's flakiness.
To reheat, simply cover the pie with foil to prevent over-browning, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until hot throughout. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pot Pie once more, savoring the comforting flavors all over again!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and assemble the pie before baking.
→ Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to enjoy.
Chicken Pot Pie
Savor the comforting flavors of homemade Chicken Pot Pie with this easy-to-follow recipe. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all enveloped in a flaky crust, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. Learn how to create this classic favorite that will surely warm hearts and satisfy appetites.
Created by: Aubrey Whitman
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp thyme
For the crust
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, add onions and celery and sauté until softened. Stir in carrots, peas, and potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over the vegetable mixture, stir well, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well and remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a pie dish, fill with the chicken mixture, and cover with the second pie crust. Seal edges and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g