Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Cozy Favorites
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken and vegetables enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a flaky crust.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a family favorite that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. With its buttery crust and savory filling, it's perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy filling that satisfies your cravings
- Flaky, buttery crust that adds the perfect texture
- Packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables
The Perfect Comfort Food
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie. It combines all the elements of a hearty meal into one dish, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you're in need of a pick-me-up. The creamy filling, packed with tender chicken and vegetables, is a hug in a bowl, while the flaky crust adds a delightful crunch that completes the experience.
This dish not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. Each bite melds the rich flavors of chicken, carrots, peas, and celery, creating a symphony of taste that is reminiscent of home-cooked meals shared with family. Whether served at a cozy dinner or during a festive gathering, this pot pie is sure to evoke fond memories and create new ones.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, be sure to use high-quality chicken, whether it's leftover rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked chicken breast. This will enhance the flavor of your filling significantly. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand; mushrooms, corn, or green beans can all make delightful additions.
When it comes to the crust, ensure it's well-chilled before rolling out to maintain its flakiness. If you're short on time, you can also use store-bought crusts, which can save you some effort without sacrificing flavor. For an extra touch, sprinkle some herbs or spices on the crust before baking for added aroma and taste.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, you're in for a treat! Creamy Chicken Pot Pie stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warmed through, which will help maintain that delightful flaky crust.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can enjoy a piece of comfort food any time you need it. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it in freezer-safe containers. To reheat from frozen, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated all the way through.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Make sure all ingredients are prepared before starting your cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the shredded chicken and peas.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken filling into the crust.
Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush the top 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 hot and enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Pot Pie!
Pro Tips
- For a twist, try adding mushrooms or substituting the chicken with turkey.
Variations to Try
While the classic Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a beloved choice, experimenting with different ingredients can lead to exciting new flavors. Consider swapping out chicken for turkey or even vegetables for a vegetarian version. You can also try adding different herbs like rosemary or basil to the filling, which can add a fresh twist.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños can give your pot pie a spicy kick. Cheese lovers can also sprinkle some shredded cheese into the filling before sealing the pie, creating a melty, delicious surprise with each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. The crispness of a salad complements the richness of the pie, providing a balanced meal that satisfies both the taste buds and the appetite. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can enhance your dining experience without overpowering the main dish.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the pie alongside mashed potatoes or a warm bread roll. This will not only add to the comfort factor but also allow you to savor every last bit of the creamy filling. A glass of white wine or a warm cup of herbal tea can also elevate your meal, making it feel extra special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work great in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk alternative, but the texture may vary.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken and vegetables enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a flaky crust.
Created by: Ffion Llewellyn
Recipe Type: Cozy 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
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 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 onion, carrots, celery, and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the shredded chicken and peas.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken filling into the crust.
Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush the top 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 twist, try adding mushrooms or substituting the chicken with turkey.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g