Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Everyday Recipes
Enjoy the comforting flavors of a homemade Creamy Chicken Pot Pie, perfect for family dinners.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a classic dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flaky crust, it’s a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy filling with tender chicken
- Flaky, golden-brown crust that’s irresistible
- Perfect for warming up on a chilly evening
A Comforting Family Favorite
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly evening. This classic dish combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Whether it's a family gathering or a quiet night in, this pot pie brings everyone together at the table. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or even add in some herbs for an extra layer of flavor. The creamy filling pairs beautifully with the flaky crust, making each bite a delicious experience. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, turning it into something truly special.
The Perfect Pie Crust
A good pie crust is essential for a successful chicken pot pie, and this recipe uses refrigerated pie crusts for convenience without sacrificing flavor. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own crust from scratch can elevate the dish even further. A homemade crust can be tailored to your taste, with the option to incorporate herbs or spices for added depth.
To achieve that perfect flaky texture, it’s important to keep your ingredients cold. Use chilled butter and ice-cold water when making your crust. This will help create those desirable flaky layers. Additionally, don’t forget to brush the top with a beaten egg before baking, as this will give your crust a beautiful golden-brown finish that’s simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is delightful on its own, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, a warm bread roll can be perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
For a complete dining experience, consider pairing your pot pie with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The crispness and acidity of these wines can balance the creaminess of the filling, enhancing your overall meal. Whether you're enjoying it on a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until soft. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until thickened. Add the cream, cooked chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust. Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. Seal and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
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 serving.
Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal!
Pro Tips
- For a more flavorful filling, consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is simple. Allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven for the best results, ensuring that the crust retains its flaky texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the pot pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; simply add extra time to the baking process until it's heated through and the crust is golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different meats in this recipe? Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can easily substitute turkey, beef, or even a combination of meats. Just ensure that the meat is cooked before adding it to the filling mix to maintain food safety.
What kind of vegetables can I use? Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Corn, green beans, or even potatoes can be added to the filling. Just remember to keep the overall volume of vegetables balanced with the chicken to ensure a perfect texture.
Tips for the Best Pot Pie
To enhance the flavor of your filling, consider sautéing the vegetables in a bit of butter before adding them to the skillet. This extra step can bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to the dish. Additionally, using high-quality chicken broth and cream can significantly impact the overall taste of your pot pie.
Don’t rush the sealing process of the crust. Make sure to crimp the edges properly to prevent any leaking during baking. This will ensure that all the delicious filling stays inside, making every slice perfect. Lastly, let the pie cool for a few minutes after baking; this will allow the filling to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe.
→ Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie, then freeze it before baking.
→ What vegetables can I add to the filling?
Feel free to add mushrooms, corn, or green beans for added flavor and texture.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Enjoy the comforting flavors of a homemade Creamy Chicken Pot Pie, perfect for family dinners.
Created by: Naomi Ashcroft
Recipe Type: Everyday Recipes
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
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until soft. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring constantly until thickened. Add the cream, cooked chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust. Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. Seal and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush with 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.
Extra Tips
- For a more flavorful filling, consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g