There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of a homemade chicken pot pie wafting through the house. It instantly takes me back to family dinners around the kitchen table, where laughter and stories were shared over hearty plates of this classic dish. This version of chicken pot pie is my go-to recipe when I want to create a meal that feels like a warm hug — it’s filled with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to bring smiles around the table.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food Classic
Chicken pot pie is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy. Here’s why it remains a family favorite:
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Hearty and Satisfying: This dish is wonderfully filling, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. The combination of meat, vegetables, and creamy sauce enveloped in a crust ensures that even the heartiest of appetites are satisfied. The mix of textures — from the soft, creamy filling to the crisp, flaky crust — creates a satisfying bite every time.
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Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, this dish is ideal for family gatherings. Its familiar flavors and comforting textures make it a safe bet when you need something that pleases everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables for the little ones. You can easily tailor the vegetable mix to your family’s preferences or dietary needs, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
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Make-Ahead: The filling can be prepared in advance, simplifying your dinner prep. You can make the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This way, when it’s time for dinner, all you need to do is assemble the pie and pop it in the oven. This flexibility is particularly useful for busy weeknights or when you’ve got a full schedule.
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Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or switch up the protein. Some delicious variations include adding mushrooms, swapping the chicken for turkey, or incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra flavor boost. You can also experiment with different crusts, such as puff pastry for a lighter, flakier finish.
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Classic Flavor: A timeless dish that evokes nostalgia and warmth with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flaky crust is a match made in culinary heaven, reminding us of the simple pleasures of home-cooked meals. This dish is a testament to the power of comfort food to soothe the soul and bring people together.
The Recipe
This classic chicken pot pie recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make. Let’s dive into the details:
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Using chicken breasts ensures a lean, healthy protein base. If you prefer, chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor. Chicken thighs are slightly fattier, which can add more depth and moisture to the dish.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced: Choose fresh, vibrant carrots for the best color and sweetness. Carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color that brightens up the pot pie.
- 1 cup peas: Frozen peas are convenient and maintain their texture well during cooking. They provide a pop of color and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 1 cup potatoes, diced: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are excellent choices due to their creamy texture when cooked. Potatoes add heartiness and help thicken the filling naturally.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped: A classic aromatic, onions add depth and sweetness to the filling. Onions lay the flavor foundation, enhancing the taste of the other ingredients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the savory notes and adds a punch of flavor. It’s a small but mighty addition that makes a big difference in taste.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is essential for thickening the sauce to just the right consistency. It helps achieve that luscious, velvety texture in the filling.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Homemade or low-sodium broth is best to control the saltiness of the dish. The broth infuses the filling with savory depth.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk contributes to the richness of the sauce, but you can use half-and-half for an even creamier texture. For a lighter option, consider low-fat milk.
- 1/4 cup butter: Adds richness and helps in creating the roux for the sauce. Butter is crucial for the roux, which is the base of a good sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to your taste, keeping in mind the salt content of the broth.
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade): A homemade crust can elevate the dish, but store-bought is a convenient and delicious option as well. For a twist, try a whole wheat or gluten-free crust.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the pie cooks evenly and the crust becomes perfectly golden. An adequately preheated oven is crucial for achieving the right texture in both the filling and crust.
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Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside. Cooking the chicken separately helps it retain its juiciness and ensures it’s cooked thoroughly. If using chicken thighs, ensure they are cooked to the proper internal temperature for safety.
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Prepare the vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables start to soften. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce. Sautéing the vegetables allows them to release their natural sugars, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Make the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, creating a smooth sauce. Cook until the mixture thickens. A proper roux is crucial here for a smooth and creamy sauce. The bubbling is a good indicator that the sauce is thickening properly.
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Combine ingredients: Add the cooked chicken and peas to the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure everything is well combined and the flavors are balanced. Taste as you go to adjust seasoning levels to your preference.
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Assemble the pie: Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust. Top with the second crust, sealing and crimping the edges. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. The slits are important to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. For an attractive finish, brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a glossy effect.
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Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving. Allowing it to cool helps the filling set for cleaner slices. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make this chicken pot pie, a few essential kitchen tools will come in handy:
- Large skillet: A large skillet is perfect for cooking the chicken and vegetables evenly. A non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and burning.
- Whisk: Useful for creating a smooth sauce without lumps. A sturdy whisk ensures an even, lump-free sauce.
- 9-inch pie plate: Ensures the perfect shape and depth for your pot pie. A glass or ceramic pie plate can provide even heat distribution.
- Rolling pin: Necessary if you’re working with homemade dough or need to adjust a store-bought crust. A rolling pin with adjustable rings helps achieve uniform thickness.
- Baking sheet: Placing the pie on a baking sheet catches any overflow, making cleanup easier and protecting your oven. A rimmed baking sheet provides an extra layer of safety against spills.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Understanding the role of each ingredient can enhance your cooking experience:
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Chicken: Provides lean protein and a comforting, hearty flavor. It’s the star of the dish that everything else complements. Chicken is versatile and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
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Carrots and Peas: Add sweetness and a pop of color, along with essential vitamins. They balance the richness of the sauce and add textural contrast. These vegetables are not only tasty but also nutritious, contributing fiber and vitamins.
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Potatoes: Offer a satisfying, starchy element that balances the creamy sauce. Their earthy flavor grounds the dish. Potatoes also add a creamy texture without the need for additional fat.
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Onion and Garlic: Infuse the dish with aromatic depth and savory notes. They are the foundation of flavor in many savory dishes. Garlic, with its pungent aroma, complements the sweetness of the onions.
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Butter and Flour: Create the base for a rich, velvety sauce. The roux made with these ingredients is key to achieving the perfect consistency. The butter adds richness, while the flour thickens the sauce to a luscious texture.
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Chicken Broth and Milk: Contribute to the creamy texture and enhance the savory flavor of the filling. They bind everything together in a luscious sauce. The broth adds depth, while the milk contributes to the sauce’s creaminess.
What to Serve With This Pot Pie
Pair your chicken pot pie with side dishes that complement its hearty nature:
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie and adds a refreshing contrast. Include ingredients like arugula or spinach for a peppery kick.
- Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them a perfect side. Add a sprinkle of almonds or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for sopping up the creamy sauce left on your plate. A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette pairs wonderfully.
- Light Fruit Salad: Offers a refreshing end to the meal, balancing the richness with a touch of natural sweetness. Consider a mix of berries, melon, and citrus for a vibrant finish.
- Classic Apple Pie: If you want to continue the comfort food theme, a slice of apple pie makes for a fitting dessert. The warm spices and sweet apples are a delightful conclusion to the meal.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Proper storage ensures that your chicken pot pie stays delicious:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. Make sure the pie is cooled to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation.
- Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through. This method helps retain the crust’s flakiness. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the crust soggy.
- Freezing: You can freeze individual portions, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. This is a great option for easy, comforting meals later on. Ensure the pie is completely cool before freezing to maintain quality.
- Thawing: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure even warming. This gradual thawing method preserves the texture and flavor of the pie.
This classic chicken pot pie recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. Its timeless appeal and comforting flavors make it a dish you’ll return to again and again. Happy cooking, and enjoy the warmth this meal brings to your family table!
Air Fryer Chicken Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chicken broth, shredded chicken, bell pepper, onion, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Drizzle olive oil into the mixture and mix again.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased air fryer-safe baking dish or a heatproof bowl that fits in your air fryer.
- Place the dish in the air fryer basket and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, stir the mixture gently and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the oats are tender and the mixture is heated through.
- Remove from the air fryer, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.