Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Favorites
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting dish filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth to your kitchen. With its flaky crust and rich filling, it's a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy filling with tender chicken and vegetables
- Flaky, buttery crust that complements the savory filling
- Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions
The Comfort of Home Cooking
There's something inherently comforting about a homemade Chicken Pot Pie. This dish not only warms your belly but also your soul. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables enveloped in a creamy sauce offers a taste of nostalgia, reminiscent of family dinners and cozy nights in. Each bite invites you to slow down and savor the moment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking comfort food.
Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that your meal is both delicious and nutritious. This recipe encourages the use of fresh vegetables, which not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish. It's a wonderful way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while treating your family to a hearty meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a versatile dish that fits perfectly into any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a quiet weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Moreover, this pot pie can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply reheat and serve for an effortless dinner that still feels gourmet. This adaptability ensures that you can enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal even on the busiest of days.
Tips for the Perfect Pie
To achieve the perfect flaky crust, it's essential to handle the dough gently. Avoid overworking the pie crust to maintain its light texture. If you're making your crust from scratch, chilling the dough before rolling it out can significantly improve its flakiness. For those using store-bought crusts, be sure to follow the package instructions for the best results.
When assembling your pie, don’t forget to create steam vents in the top crust. This step is crucial to prevent the filling from becoming too watery and ensures that your pie bakes evenly. Additionally, brushing the top with a beaten egg will give your crust a beautiful golden hue, enhancing both the visual appeal and texture.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add the shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken filling into the crust. Top with the second pie crust, sealing and crimping the edges. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Bake the Pie
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Creamy Chicken Pot Pie!
Serving Suggestions
While this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is delicious on its own, consider pairing it with a simple side salad to add some freshness to your meal. A light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the pie, balancing flavors beautifully. Alternatively, serve it alongside roasted vegetables for an extra dose of nutrition.
For those looking to elevate the experience further, a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the dish. The wine's acidity can cut through the creaminess of the pie, creating a delightful dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring that the crust remains crispy. For a quick option, you can also use the microwave, although this may result in a softer crust.
For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly cooked chicken and pie crust.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary needs. Adding mushrooms, corn, or even sweet potatoes can bring a new dimension to the flavor profile. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spice lovers can also experiment by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a kick. These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also allow you to cater to different preferences, making it a truly adaptable recipe.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works great in this recipe.
→ Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.
→ What vegetables can I add to the filling?
Feel free to add your favorites like corn, green beans, or mushrooms.
→ How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting dish filled with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust.
Created by: Serena Whitaker
Recipe Type: Warm Comfort Food Favorites
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 celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add the shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken filling into the crust. Top with the second pie crust, sealing and crimping the edges. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g