Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Highlighted under: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics
Savor the comforting flavors of homemade Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie, featuring tender chunks of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a flaky golden crust. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to make and sure to impress, it's a timeless favorite that brings everyone to the table.
A Comfort Food Classic
Chicken pot pie has long been cherished as a staple in American cuisine, beloved for its hearty flavors and satisfying textures. This dish effortlessly combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy sauce, encased in a deliciously flaky crust. It embodies the essence of comfort food, making it a go-to choice for family gatherings, cold winter nights, or any occasion that calls for warmth and joy around the dinner table.
Beyond its rich flavors, this Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie recipe is also deeply customizable. Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as corn or green beans, or swap out chicken for turkey, making it the perfect dish for using up leftovers. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this classic recipe to your family's palate while still capturing the heartwarming essence of this timeless favorite.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the best chicken pot pie, start with high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh vegetables and tender cooked chicken, as they significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dish. For an added depth of flavor, roast the chicken before dicing, allowing the skin to achieve a golden, crispy texture that brings brightness to each bite.
Don't overlook the importance of proper seasoning. The right amount of salt, pepper, and dried thyme elevates the dish and brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Taste your filling before assembling the pie to ensure it meets your preference. A perfect balance of flavors will guarantee a satisfying meal that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Crust
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Add the Vegetables and Chicken
Mix in the cooked chicken, carrots, peas, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one crust in a pie dish and pour the filling into the crust. Cover with the second crust, seal the edges, and cut slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Pie
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie is truly a meal on its own, yet it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience. Consider preparing a simple green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy pot pie. This combination will enhance your meal and leave everyone feeling satisfied.
If you're looking to add an extra touch to your dinner table, consider serving the pie with a side of roasted vegetables or a warm, buttery biscuit to soak up the delicious filling. Such accompaniments not only complement the pot pie but also provide additional flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for your guests.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in for a treat. The Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve the flaky texture, it's best to store the filling and crust separately if possible, although they can be kept together. Just ensure the pie is completely cooled before refrigerating.
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pot pie on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning and bake for around 20–25 minutes, or until it's heated through. This method helps to revive the crust's flakiness while warming the savory filling, resulting in a meal that tastes as good as freshly baked.
Freezing Instructions
For those who love meal prep, this chicken pot pie freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic dish to have on hand for busy weeknights. To freeze, assemble the pie but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to label the date for easy reference.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen pot pie, no need to defrost! Simply preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake it directly from the freezer. I recommend extending the baking time by 10–15 minutes to ensure the filling is heated all the way through. This way, you'll have a warm, comforting meal ready in no time, straight from your freezer to your table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Savor the comforting flavors of homemade Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie, featuring tender chunks of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a flaky golden crust. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Easy to make and sure to impress, it's a timeless favorite that brings everyone to the table.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Heartwarming Kitchen Classics
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup green peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Crust
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened.
Mix in the cooked chicken, carrots, peas, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one crust in a pie dish and pour the filling into the crust. Cover with the second crust, seal the edges, and cut slits on the top to allow steam to escape.
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 20g