Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Rustic Planning
Indulge in this deliciously creamy chicken pot pie, filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust.
This creamy chicken pot pie is a comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its flaky crust and rich filling, it's sure to become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy filling that warms your soul
- Flaky, golden crust that adds the perfect crunch
- Packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables
The Comfort of Home-Cooked Meals
There's something undeniably comforting about a homemade chicken pot pie. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it's baking can transport you back to family gatherings and cozy evenings. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your heart, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet night in, this creamy chicken pot pie will be the star of the show.
As the seasons change, so do our cravings. When the weather turns chilly, a slice of chicken pot pie offers the ideal blend of warmth and richness. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce all wrapped in a flaky crust is simply irresistible. It's a dish that invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and appreciate the simple pleasures of home-cooked comfort food.
A Versatile Recipe for Everyone
One of the best aspects of this creamy chicken pot pie is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to substitute leftover turkey for chicken, or add in your favorite vegetables like corn or green beans. This recipe is an excellent way to reduce food waste while creating a dish that everyone will love.
Additionally, this pot pie can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. Simply assemble the pie, cover it tightly, and pop it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, bake it straight from the freezer for a hassle-free meal that tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly made. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
To elevate your meal, consider serving the creamy chicken pot pie with a simple side salad. A fresh mix of greens with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie and add a refreshing touch. You might also enjoy pairing it with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any leftover sauce, ensuring that not a drop goes to waste.
For a complete dining experience, complement your pot pie with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. These wines are great choices as they enhance the flavors of the chicken and cream while cutting through the richness of the dish. Whether it's a casual family dinner or a special celebration, this chicken pot pie is sure to impress and satisfy every palate.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your creamy chicken pot pie:
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start making your pot pie!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your creamy chicken pot pie:
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions, carrots, celery, and cook until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until thickened. Add shredded chicken and peas, season with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a pie dish and pour the chicken filling into the crust. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits for steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg.
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 serving.
Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken pot pie!
Pro Tips
- For a richer flavor, you can add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the filling.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pot Pie
To ensure a perfectly flaky crust, avoid overworking the dough when sealing the edges. This can lead to a tough texture instead of the desired light and flaky finish. If you prefer to make your pie crust from scratch, consider chilling your ingredients beforehand. Cold butter and water help create a tender crust that will elevate your chicken pot pie to the next level.
Another tip is to let the filling cool slightly before assembling the pie. This prevents the bottom crust from becoming soggy and helps maintain the structural integrity of your pot pie. A little patience in this step can make a big difference in the final result.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chicken pot pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the crust while ensuring the filling is hot and creamy.
If you've made a large batch, consider freezing individual portions. Using airtight containers or freezer bags, you can store slices for up to three months. When you're craving a comforting meal, just reheat from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you always have a delicious homemade option at hand!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works just as well and adds a unique flavor.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the pie just before baking.
→ Is it possible to freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
→ What can I serve with this pot pie?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great sides for this dish.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Indulge in this deliciously creamy chicken pot pie, filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust.
Created by: Jemima Fox
Recipe Type: Rustic Planning
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
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions, carrots, celery, and cook until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until thickened. Add shredded chicken and peas, season with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust in a pie dish and pour the chicken filling into the crust. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits 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 richer flavor, you can add herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g