Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Comfort food at its finest, this Chicken Pot Pie recipe features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite, delivering warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
This Chicken Pot Pie is not just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate. With each forkful, you'll savor the blend of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce that brings everything together.
Why Chicken Pot Pie is a Classic Dish
Chicken pot pie is a dish that has stood the test of time in American kitchens. This comforting meal combines flaky pastry with a creamy filling that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. The magic lies in its versatility; you can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a practical choice for busy families.
The rich, savory flavors of this dish evoke a sense of nostalgia and tradition, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings and chilly evenings. It's not just about the food; it's about bringing people together around the table to share stories and laughter over a comforting meal.
Ingredient Benefits
This chicken pot pie recipe features a blend of nutrient-dense ingredients. Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein, vital for muscle growth and repair. The colorful vegetables—carrots, peas, and potatoes—not only enhance the dish's flavor and texture but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Using a combination of chicken broth and milk creates a creamy sauce without excessive calories. Butter adds richness, while herbs like thyme contribute aroma and depth of flavor. The refrigerated pie crust makes preparation quick and convenient, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—the joy of cooking and sharing this delightful meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
After preparing this delightful chicken pot pie, you might find that there's some left over. To store, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, the best way to reheat it is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the pie with foil to prevent over-browning. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, the microwave is also an option, although it may compromise the crispness of the crust.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 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 tsp thyme
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes, sauté until tender. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cook until the mixture thickens. Stir in chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Pour the filling over the crust. Cover with the second crust, seal edges, and cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chicken Pot Pie!
Serving Suggestions
While this chicken pot pie is hearty enough to stand alone, consider serving it with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast. A green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can elevate your meal, providing a crisp texture and additional nutrients.
For an extra splash of flavor, serve the pie alongside homemade garlic bread or biscuits. They are great for soaking up the rich sauce. This combination not only adds variety to the meal but also enhances the cozy dining experience.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with different proteins and vegetables in your chicken pot pie. Turkey, beef, or even seafood can create a unique twist, while seasonal vegetables like corn and spinach can add interesting flavors and textures.
For a healthier version, consider using a whole wheat pie crust or a cauliflower crust. Additionally, you can lighten the filling by replacing some of the cream with Greek yogurt, giving you that creamy texture with added health benefits.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
→ Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready.
Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Comfort food at its finest, this Chicken Pot Pie recipe features tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for chilly evenings, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite, delivering warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Created by: Evelyn Parker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 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 tsp thyme
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
How-To Steps
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes, sauté until tender. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cook until the mixture thickens. Stir in chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Pour the filling over the crust. Cover with the second crust, seal edges, and cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 20g