Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Favorites
Indulge in this comforting and creamy chicken pot pie, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
This creamy chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flaky crust, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy filling packed with flavor
- Flaky, buttery crust that complements the filling
- Perfect for using up leftover chicken or vegetables
A Classic Comfort Food
Chicken pot pie is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce encased in a flaky crust is not only delicious but also nostalgic for many. This recipe embraces the classic elements while adding a rich and creamy twist that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Whether it's a chilly evening or a family gathering, this creamy chicken pot pie is the ideal solution for a hearty meal. Its versatile nature means it can be adapted to include whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. Plus, it’s a dish that can easily be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
Easy to Prepare
One of the best aspects of this creamy chicken pot pie recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a homemade pot pie ready to serve in no time. The use of refrigerated pie crusts cuts down on prep time, allowing you to focus on creating a flavorful filling that truly shines.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Just gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and soon you'll have a golden, bubbling pie that will fill your home with delightful aromas.
Customization Options
One of the joys of making chicken pot pie is the ability to customize it to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms to find your favorite combination. You can also switch up the herbs and spices; adding rosemary or parsley can give the dish an exciting twist.
For those looking to make this dish healthier, consider using whole wheat pie crusts or substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk. Additionally, you can use rotisserie chicken to save time and enhance the flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 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)
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute.
Make the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust. Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and make slits on top to allow steam to escape.
Bake
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy chicken pot pie pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pie. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread for a more filling option.
For a comforting family dinner, consider serving the pot pie with a glass of chilled white wine or a warm cup of soup as an appetizer. These combinations not only enhance the dining experience but also make the meal feel more special.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy the pie again, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the flaky texture of the crust.
You can also freeze the unbaked pot pie for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, simply add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This creamy chicken pot pie recipe stands out due to its rich filling and flaky crust, making it a delightful dish that everyone will love. The balance of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.
Moreover, the versatility of the recipe allows you to adapt it according to your preferences, ensuring it can be a staple in your home cooking repertoire. With its straightforward preparation and delicious results, this pot pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie, then refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.
→ What can I serve with chicken pot pie?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Indulge in this comforting and creamy chicken pot pie, perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Created by: Lauren Mitchell
Recipe Type: Everyday Comfort Food Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 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
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 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 the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust. Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and make slits on top to allow steam to escape.
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g