Comfort Food Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Warm Meal Inspirations
I absolutely adore making Comfort Food Chicken Pot Pie, especially on chilly evenings when a warm meal is just what I need. The combination of succulent chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flaky crust always feels like a comforting hug. Over the years, I've experimented with different flavors and ingredients, but when I found the perfect blend of herbs and spices, it transformed my pot pie into a family favorite. It’s a dish that truly warms the heart and satisfies the soul!
When I first made this chicken pot pie, I was amazed at how the aroma filled my kitchen. I was particularly proud of the flaky crust, which I ensured to chill before baking for that perfect texture. The filling came out creamy and rich, with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance the flavor without overpowering the dish.
One tip that I find essential is to use leftover roasted chicken; it not only saves time but adds a depth of flavor that's simply unbeatable. The combination of fresh vegetables complements the dish beautifully, making it a wholesome meal that always brings a smile to my family's faces.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A comforting hug of a dish that brings joy on any day
- The flaky crust provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling
- Perfect for using up leftover chicken in a delicious way
Understanding the Technique
The secret to achieving the perfect creamy filling in your Comfort Food Chicken Pot Pie lies in how you cook the flour. After sautéing the onions until they become translucent, adding the flour directly into the cooked vegetables ensures it coats them evenly. This step not only thickens the sauce but also prevents any raw flour taste in your final dish. Remember to whisk continuously when you introduce the chicken broth and milk, which helps to achieve that desired smooth, glossy texture.
Another crucial technique is proper layering of your filling within the pie crust. Pouring in the chicken filling while it's still warm helps to set the crust properly, creating a beautiful contrast between the flaky exterior and the creamy interior. When you position your second pie crust on top, ensure to do a thorough crimping along the edges to seal in those delicious flavors. This also prevents any spillage during baking, which can be messy and detracts from the presentation.
Ingredient Insights
Using a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables can give your Chicken Pot Pie an enhanced texture and flavor profile. Fresh carrots and potatoes can add a great bite, while frozen peas offer convenience and a touch of sweetness. If you're in a pinch, substituting frozen for fresh is perfectly acceptable; just adjust your cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking the veggies.
While chicken remains the star of the pie, don't hesitate to switch things up! You can use leftover turkey, or even rotisserie chicken if you're short on time. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using hearty mushrooms and some cubed tofu to replicate that meaty texture. The key is to ensure your ingredients are well-seasoned, so don't skimp on the herbs and spices—the thyme adds a subtle earthiness that really brings everything together.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful chicken pot pie.
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 all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1 package pie crusts (2 crusts)
Once you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your chicken pot pie.
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking until they soften. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to coat, and then slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Add the chicken, peas, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the chicken filling into a pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing and cutting slits for ventilation. Optionally, brush with milk for a golden finish.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade chicken pot pie, perfect for comforting dinners!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling just before baking.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers after the comforting meal, storing the Chicken Pot Pie is straightforward. Cover the cooled pie with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. For the best results, you can also reheat the entire pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes.
For longer-term storage, you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to three months. Just ensure it's wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake from frozen, there's no need to thaw; simply increase the baking time to 45-50 minutes, covering it with aluminum foil if the crust browns too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Pot Pie with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A fresh arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can add a nice contrast, both in flavors and textures. You could also consider serving with steamed green beans or garlic bread for a cozy meal that feels even more comforting on a chilly evening.
For a fun twist, try serving your pot pie in individual ramekins for individual portions. This not only makes for a charming presentation but also allows each person to enjoy a crispy edge piece, which is always a hit!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a lot of flavor.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the chicken with a mix of mushrooms and additional vegetables, using vegetable broth instead.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing to keep it fresh for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with chicken pot pie?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Comfort Food Chicken Pot Pie
I absolutely adore making Comfort Food Chicken Pot Pie, especially on chilly evenings when a warm meal is just what I need. The combination of succulent chicken, hearty vegetables, and a flaky crust always feels like a comforting hug. Over the years, I've experimented with different flavors and ingredients, but when I found the perfect blend of herbs and spices, it transformed my pot pie into a family favorite. It’s a dish that truly warms the heart and satisfies the soul!
Created by: Helena Wright
Recipe Type: Warm Meal Inspirations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
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 all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1 package pie crusts (2 crusts)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking until they soften. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to coat, and then slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Add the chicken, peas, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the chicken filling into a pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing and cutting slits for ventilation. Optionally, brush with milk for a golden finish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling just before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g