Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie

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Chicken pot pie is one of those timeless comfort foods that can instantly make you feel at home, no matter where you are. The warm, flaky crust paired with creamy filling filled with tender chicken, veggies, and a touch of seasoning is the epitome of cozy. I love making this dish when I want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up leftover chicken, so it’s practical as well as delicious.

The beauty of this easy chicken pot pie is that it’s so simple to prepare. Even though it has a long list of ingredients, the steps are easy to follow, and the result is always something you can be proud of. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because, this dish is sure to impress. It’s hearty, creamy, and comforting – everything you want in a meal!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pot Pie

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What Kind of Puff Pastry Should I Use?

When making chicken pot pie, the crust is an essential element. While some prefer a traditional pie crust, puff pastry can take it to the next level. Puff pastry gives the pot pie that golden, flaky texture that perfectly contrasts with the creamy filling. It’s a game-changer in terms of texture and flavor. I recommend using a store-bought puff pastry for ease and consistency, especially if you’re looking for a shortcut. Just make sure to choose a high-quality option for the best results. You can find it in the frozen section of most grocery stores, ready to roll out and top your pie.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have puff pastry or prefer a different crust option, there are several alternatives to choose from. For a lighter crust, you can opt for a phyllo dough, though it won’t provide quite the same richness and flakiness as puff pastry. If you prefer a more traditional touch, a homemade or store-bought pie crust can be used. For a gluten-free option, you can easily find gluten-free pie crusts or puff pastry at most grocery stores. Another idea is to top the pie with mashed potatoes for a twist on the classic. It’s versatile, and you can make it fit your dietary preferences!

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Ingredients for This Chicken Pot Pie

1. Chicken – A key ingredient that provides the hearty, protein-packed base for your filling. It can be cooked and shredded leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breasts. The chicken adds both flavor and texture to the dish.
2. Puff Pastry – This flaky pastry dough creates a golden, crisp crust that perfectly complements the creamy filling. It adds that signature crunch and indulgence that makes chicken pot pie so irresistible.
3. Vegetables (Carrots, Peas, Corn) – These vegetables are essential for adding color, flavor, and nutrition to the dish. The sweetness of the peas and corn, along with the earthy flavor of the carrots, balance the savory filling perfectly.
4. Cream (Heavy Cream or Milk) – The cream is what makes the filling rich and velvety. It’s the base of the creamy sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
5. Butter – Butter is crucial for creating a silky smooth sauce. It also adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the filling.
6. Flour – Flour helps thicken the sauce, creating that perfect creamy texture. It binds the liquid ingredients together so the filling doesn’t become too runny.
7. Chicken Broth – Adds a savory depth of flavor to the filling. It helps in making the sauce more flavorful and contributes to the overall liquid content needed to create the creamy filling.
8. Seasoning (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Thyme) – These seasonings are essential to elevate the flavor profile. A simple combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme is enough to make the dish savory and aromatic.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cooking your chicken if you haven’t already. You can roast, boil, or pan-cook chicken breasts, thighs, or use leftover chicken. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. This will be the hearty base of your pot pie filling.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In a large pan, melt some butter over medium heat. Add your chopped carrots and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the peas and corn, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This will help bring out their sweetness and combine the flavors before adding the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same pan with the vegetables, sprinkle in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This will help eliminate the raw flour taste and create the roux. Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Gradually add the cream, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme to taste.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened, add the shredded chicken to the pan. Stir to coat the chicken in the creamy mixture. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, making sure everything is well incorporated. Remove from heat once it’s all combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your puff pastry on a flat surface. Lightly grease a pie dish or an oven-safe baking dish, and then pour the chicken mixture into it. Lay the puff pastry over the top, trimming any excess and pressing the edges down to seal. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape while baking.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Place the assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

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How Long to Cook the Chicken Pot Pie

The cooking time for chicken pot pie is relatively straightforward. Once you’ve assembled the pie with the puff pastry, bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes. The pie is ready when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If you’re using a pie crust, it may need a bit longer, but puff pastry typically cooks quickly and gives that perfect, flaky finish.

Make sure to check that the filling has reached a simmering temperature and that the crust is thoroughly browned. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil to prevent over-baking.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

1. Use a thickening agent – If your sauce feels too thin after adding the broth and cream, let it simmer a little longer or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to help thicken the mixture.
2. Pre-cook your vegetables – While carrots, peas, and corn are relatively easy to cook, making sure they’re softened a bit before adding them to the filling will give you a better texture in the pie.
3. Don’t overfill the crust – Keep the filling level below the edges of the crust. Too much filling may cause it to spill over while baking, so leave a small gap at the top.
4. Cool before cutting – Let your chicken pot pie cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and prevents it from running out when you slice it.
5. For a golden crust – Brush the puff pastry with a beaten egg or milk before baking to give it that beautiful, golden sheen.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Not letting the sauce thicken enough – If your sauce is too runny, the filling will leak out when you cut into the pie. Make sure the sauce is thick enough before adding it to the pastry. You can always let it simmer a little longer or add a bit of cornstarch to help.
2. Underbaking the crust – Puff pastry can cook quickly, so be sure to keep an eye on it while it bakes. If the crust isn’t golden and flaky, the pie won’t have the right texture. If necessary, cover the edges with foil if they start browning too fast.
3. Overcrowding the pie – Filling the pie dish too full can lead to spilling over and an uneven cooking process. Keep the filling level just below the crust to allow for even baking.
4. Not seasoning enough – The beauty of chicken pot pie lies in the balance of flavors. Be sure to season the filling well with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Taste as you go to make sure it’s flavorful.
5. Not letting the pie cool enough – Cutting into the pie immediately after it’s out of the oven may cause the filling to run out. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to set.

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What to Serve With Chicken Pot Pie?

Chicken pot pie is hearty and satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with several sides that complement its richness. Here are some options:

1. Simple Green Salad

A light, fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette will help balance out the creamy richness of the pie.

2. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread adds some extra flavor and crunch, perfect for dipping into the creamy filling.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes are a great way to add even more savory flavor to your meal.

4. Mashed Potatoes

If you’re craving even more comfort food, mashed potatoes are a great choice. The creamy potatoes work well with the flaky pie.

5. Steamed Asparagus

The subtle, earthy flavor of asparagus pairs nicely with the creamy, rich filling of the pot pie.

6. Crispy Kale Chips

For a light, crispy texture, kale chips are a perfect side. They’re crunchy and slightly salty, which makes a nice contrast with the soft pie.

7. Coleslaw

A tangy, crunchy slaw adds a refreshing element that contrasts the rich and warm pie.

8. Apple Sauce

For a sweet touch, apple sauce or apple slices can balance the savory flavors with a little sweetness.

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Storage Instructions

Chicken pot pie is a great make-ahead dish, and storing leftovers properly is essential to keeping its flavors fresh. To store, let the pie cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. If you’re reheating individual portions, the microwave can be used, but for the best texture, the oven is preferred to keep the crust crisp.

Freezing:

If you’d like to freeze the chicken pot pie, you can do so before baking it. Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw it—just place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden and bubbly. If you’re reheating a frozen portion, you can microwave or bake at a lower temperature for a longer time.

Estimated Nutrition

While chicken pot pie is undoubtedly delicious, it’s also a rich dish, so here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (based on one slice from an 8-inch pie):

• Calories: 400-500 kcal
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Fiber: 2-4 grams
• Sodium: 600-800 mg

Note that the exact nutrition values will depend on the ingredients used, such as the type of crust, amount of cream, and the portion sizes. Adjust for lighter versions if desired!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought chicken for the filling?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this recipe. It saves time and still provides great flavor. Just shred the chicken before adding it to the filling.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free puff pastry or pie crust as a substitute for the traditional puff pastry. Also, substitute the flour in the filling with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.

3. Can I freeze the chicken pot pie?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Bake it straight from frozen when ready to serve.

4. What other vegetables can I add to the filling?

Feel free to customize your chicken pot pie by adding vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or potatoes. Just make sure to cook them a bit before adding them to the filling so they don’t release too much moisture.

5. How can I make the filling thicker?

If the filling turns out too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and add it to the filling, stirring well until thickened.

6. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes! If you prefer a different crust, you can use a traditional pie crust or even phyllo dough. Just note that the texture and flavor will change depending on your choice.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 1-2 days. When ready to bake, simply add the puff pastry and cook according to the instructions.

8. How do I make the pie crispy on top?

To get that golden, crispy crust, brush the puff pastry with a beaten egg or milk before baking. This will give it that beautiful golden sheen and crisp texture.

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Conclusion

Chicken pot pie is a wonderful, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy meal at home. It’s easy to make, customizable, and absolutely comforting. If you loved this recipe, be sure to save it on Pinterest and share it with your friends and family. They’ll be thanking you for this delicious, crowd-pleasing treat!

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