There’s something utterly magical about a delicious chicken pot pie. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening, filled to the brim with cozy flavors that just scream comfort food. The moment you pull it out of the oven, the aroma of tender chicken and savory veggies wafts through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Trust me, this dish is the epitome of satisfaction! With its flaky crust encasing a creamy, hearty filling, each bite is a reminder of home-cooked love. Whether it’s a family gathering or a quiet night in, this chicken pot pie brings everyone together around the table, ready to dig in and relish every delicious mouthful. You’re going to love how simple it is to make this delightful dish, so let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor!
- 1 cup carrots, diced – Fresh or frozen work great; just make sure they’re cut small to cook evenly.
- 1 cup peas – I love using frozen peas; they’re sweet and add a pop of color!
- 1 cup potatoes, diced – Go for Yukon Gold for a creamy texture, but any potato will do.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped – This adds such a wonderful depth to the flavor; you can use yellow or white onions.
- 1/3 cup butter – I use unsalted butter, so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1/3 cup flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly for thickening that creamy filling!
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth – Homemade if you have it, but store-bought works just as well!
- 2/3 cup milk – Whole milk gives a richer flavor, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste, especially depending on your broth.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground makes a difference in flavor!
- 1 teaspoon thyme – Dried is just fine if that’s what you have; it adds a lovely earthy note.
- 1 pre-made pie crust – I opt for a deep-dish crust to hold all that delicious filling!
How to Prepare Delicious Chicken Pot Pie
Making a delicious chicken pot pie is easier than you might think! Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a comforting dish to impress your family or friends in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure a perfectly crispy crust when it’s time to bake!
- In a medium saucepan, melt the 1/3 cup of butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the 1/2 cup of chopped onions. Sauté them until they’re translucent—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Now, add 1/3 cup of flour to the pan. Stir it in well to create a roux, cooking for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth and 2/3 cup of milk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens up nicely—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want it to be creamy and smooth!
- Once thickened, stir in your shredded chicken, diced carrots, peas, diced potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix everything until it’s well combined and heated through.
- Next, pour this delicious filling into a pie dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for perfect baking!
- Now, take your pre-made pie crust and cover the filling, sealing the edges well. Cut a few slits in the crust to let steam escape; this is key for a flaky top!
- Pop your pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
- Finally, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delicious chicken pot pie. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but they give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This comforting dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a hearty punch of protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and happy. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing it’s a meal that nourishes your body as well as your soul!
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect delicious chicken pot pie, here are some handy tips that I swear by! First, don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions; it really deepens the flavor of your filling. Make sure to let your roux cook for just a minute to avoid that raw flour taste—trust me, it makes all the difference!
Also, when adding your veggies, make sure they’re cut small and uniform for even cooking. If you want a golden crust, brush it with an egg wash before baking. Another great tip is to let the pie cool for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set a bit more, so it doesn’t spill out when you slice into it. And remember, feel free to get creative with your veggies or herbs! Have fun with it, and enjoy the process!
Variations of Delicious Chicken Pot Pie
If you want to mix things up with your delicious chicken pot pie, there are so many fun variations to explore! For a twist on the classic filling, try adding mushrooms or corn for an extra layer of flavor and texture. You can also switch up the herbs; fresh rosemary or parsley can bring a bright freshness to the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, how about a southwestern kick? Just toss in some diced jalapeños and black beans, and swap the thyme for cumin!
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream to the filling before pouring it into the pie crust. And don’t forget about the crust! You can use a puff pastry for a flaky, buttery top or even a biscuit topping for a heartier feel. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine and make this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your delicious chicken pot pie experience, consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp side salad. A simple mix of greens with a zesty vinaigrette perfectly complements the rich, creamy filling. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve it alongside some buttery mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables for a heartwarming meal. And don’t forget about a side of cranberry sauce or pickled vegetables to add a touch of tang and sweetness! For a cozy evening, a warm bread roll or garlic bread on the side can soak up any leftover sauce. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers of your delicious chicken pot pie, you’ll want to store them properly to keep that amazing flavor intact! Allow the pie to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If the crust starts to brown too much, cover the edges with foil. You can also microwave individual slices for a quick reheat, but I recommend the oven for that perfect crispy crust!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh? Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are not only convenient, but they also retain their flavor and nutrients. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the filling to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for chicken? If you want to switch things up, try using turkey instead of chicken. You can also make a vegetarian version by using hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, and lentils for protein.
Can I make this chicken pot pie ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble it with the crust and pop it in the oven. It’s a great time-saver!
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Great question! To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure the filling is not overly wet before adding it to the crust. You can also pre-bake the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling—this helps it stay crisp!
Can I freeze chicken pot pie? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
Print
Delicious Chicken Pot Pie: 7 Steps to Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and comforting chicken pot pie filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 pre-made pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add flour, stirring until well combined.
- Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in chicken, carrots, peas, potatoes, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Pour the mixture into a pie dish.
- Cover with the pie crust, sealing the edges.
- Cut slits in the crust for steam to escape.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or green beans.
- For a golden crust, brush with egg wash before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chicken pot pie, comfort food, easy recipe
