Ah, there’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a freshly baked Chicken Pot Pie wafting through the house. It’s a dish that takes me back to chilly Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s house, where this pot pie was the star of our family dinners. The golden, flaky crust encasing a rich, creamy filling of tender chicken and vibrant vegetables — it’s like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re gathering around the table with family or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this classic Chicken Pot Pie promises to bring warmth and joy to your meal.
Why You’ll Love This Family Dinner
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This Chicken Pot Pie is the epitome of comfort food, providing a sense of warmth and coziness with every bite. The combination of a creamy, savory filling and a perfectly baked crust is like a balm for the soul, especially on cold days. The aroma alone, as it bakes in the oven, is enough to make your mouth water and your heart feel at ease.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for a stress-free dinner that feels like a special occasion. Even on busy weekdays, you can whip up this delicious meal without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies the cooking process while delivering magnificent flavors.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate, making it a breeze to assemble and bake when you’re short on time. This flexibility means you can spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Plus, you can easily double the recipe to have a spare pie ready for another day.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein-rich chicken and a medley of vegetables, this dish is both hearty and nourishing. It’s a complete meal that fuels your body and satisfies your hunger. The vegetables contribute essential nutrients, making it a well-rounded dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, this Chicken Pot Pie is sure to become a family favorite. Its universal appeal means it’s always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings. The pie’s classic flavors resonate with everyone, creating a sense of nostalgia that brings people together.
The Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: You can use leftover roast chicken or even rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience. The rich, savory taste of chicken is the foundation of a good pot pie.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Fresh carrots are best, but frozen can work in a pinch. They add a touch of sweetness and color, complementing the savory elements of the dish.
- 1 cup peas: Use fresh or frozen peas. They maintain their bright green color and slight crunch even after baking, adding a vibrant texture to the filling.
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well, providing a creamy texture when cooked. Their starchiness helps thicken the filling naturally.
- 1/2 cup celery, diced: Adds a subtle crunch and a depth of flavor that enhances the overall profile of the pie. The celery provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling.
- 1/4 cup butter: Essential for making the roux, which thickens the sauce and adds richness. The butter’s creamy, luxurious flavor is key to a good sauce.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a thick, creamy filling that holds everything together. It’s the backbone of the sauce, providing structure and body.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste; enhances and balances the flavors of the dish. A little seasoning goes a long way in bringing all the ingredients together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of warmth and spice. It subtly elevates the flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme: Offers a subtle earthy flavor that complements the chicken. Thyme’s gentle aroma brings a touch of sophistication to the pie.
- 1/4 teaspoon rosemary: Provides a pine-like aroma that pairs beautifully with the other herbs. Rosemary’s robust scent adds depth and warmth.
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness. It serves as the base of the sauce, infusing the filling with a savory richness.
- 2/3 cup milk: Contributes to the creamy consistency of the filling. Use whole milk for a richer sauce, or opt for lower fat alternatives if preferred. The creaminess ties all the flavors together.
- 2 ready-made pie crusts: A convenient option that saves time; however, homemade crusts can elevate the dish if you’re up for it. The crust should be buttery and flaky, providing the perfect encasement for the filling.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensuring the oven is hot before baking helps achieve that perfectly golden crust. A hot oven is crucial for the pie to bake evenly and develop a crispy, flakey crust.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The vegetables should be soft but not mushy, retaining a bit of their bite.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring continuously. This step is crucial for developing flavor and ensuring the flour is fully cooked. The mixture will become fragrant as the flour absorbs the butter and spices.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, allowing the mixture to thicken. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon, indicating it’s ready. This step is where the magic happens, transforming the mixture into a velvety sauce.
- Add the chicken and peas to the saucepan, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat. The filling should be thick but pourable. The chicken should be well-coated in the sauce, and the peas should remain vibrant.
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with one of the pie crusts. Fill with the chicken mixture, then cover with the second pie crust. Seal and crimp the edges to prevent leakage. A fork or your fingers work well for crimping. Ensure there are no gaps in the crust to keep the filling contained.
- Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and allows the filling to vent. The slits also create a rustic, homemade appearance.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve. As it cools, the flavors meld further, enhancing the overall taste.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large saucepan for cooking the filling: A deep pan is preferable to accommodate all the ingredients and prevent spills. A heavy-bottomed pan distributes heat evenly, preventing the sauce from scorching.
- Whisk for mixing the sauce: Ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce. A silicon-coated whisk is ideal for nonstick pans. It helps integrate the ingredients without scratching the pan.
- 9-inch pie plate for baking: A glass or ceramic pie plate provides even heat distribution. These materials help the pie bake uniformly, ensuring a consistent texture.
- Knife and cutting board for prepping vegetables: Sharp knives make prep work quicker and safer. A sturdy cutting board provides a stable surface for efficient chopping.
- Rolling pin (optional) for adjusting pie crust: Useful if you need to resize the crusts or want to make decorative edges. A rolling pin can help create a perfectly even crust.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Chicken: Provides lean protein and a rich flavor base for the filling. It’s versatile and can be prepped in various ways, like grilling or roasting, for different flavor profiles. Each method imparts a unique taste and texture to the dish.
- Carrots, Peas, and Celery: Add sweetness, texture, and a pop of color, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They also contribute to the dish’s overall heartiness and healthfulness. The vegetables provide a balance to the rich sauce, making the pie more wholesome.
- Potatoes: Contribute heartiness and make the dish more filling, offering a creamy texture when cooked. They’re a good source of complex carbohydrates. Potatoes absorb the flavors of the sauce, enhancing the dish’s savory profile.
- Butter and Flour: These create the roux, which thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency. The butter adds richness, while the flour provides structure. Together, they form the base of the creamy filling that holds the pie together.
- Thyme and Rosemary: Infuse the dish with aromatic, earthy flavors that elevate the overall taste. These herbs are classic pairings with poultry and add depth to the pie. Their subtle presence enhances the flavor without overwhelming the palate.
What to Serve With This Cozy Dish
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pot pie beautifully. Consider adding sliced apples or nuts for extra texture. The crispness of the salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pie.
- Buttery Mashed Potatoes: For those extra-chilly nights, serve alongside to double down on comfort. A touch of garlic or chives in the mash can add a lovely flavor contrast. The smooth, buttery potatoes complement the flaky crust and savory filling.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy, sweet counterpoint that pairs surprisingly well with the savory pie. It’s especially fitting during the fall and winter seasons. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious balance.
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the pie has cooled completely before refrigerating to maintain its texture. This ensures the crust retains its flakiness and the filling stays fresh.
- Freezing: This Chicken Pot Pie can be frozen, either before or after baking, for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly. When ready to bake, if frozen uncooked, add an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time. Freezing provides the convenience of having a ready meal on hand for busy days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for best results. You can also microwave individual slices, but the crust may lose some of its crispness. Oven reheating preserves the texture and ensures even warming.
As you savor each bite of this Chicken Pot Pie, know that you’re not just enjoying a meal, but also creating cherished memories around your table. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. Remember to check out more family-friendly recipes on {BLOG_DOMAIN}, like our Hearty Beef Stew or Classic Apple Pie. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Arrowroot
A delicious and crispy snack made with arrowroot powder, perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine arrowroot powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, mixing until you achieve a smooth batter.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Pour the batter into the basket, spreading it evenly to form a thin layer.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the arrowroot layer and cook for another 10 minutes, or until it is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into desired shapes.
Nutrition
Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 50gSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs or spices to the batter before cooking. Arrowroot snacks are best enjoyed fresh and crispy.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!