As the leaves start to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a homemade Chicken Pot Pie filling the kitchen with its savory aroma. This dish takes me back to Sunday family dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the love and warmth of the kitchen seemed to seep right into the food. I remember sitting at the table, eagerly waiting for a slice of that golden, flaky crust and the creamy, hearty filling beneath it. It felt like a big, warm hug on a plate, a feeling I hope to share with you through this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Comfort Food
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Cozy and Satisfying: This Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or a heartwarming family dinner. The creamy filling and buttery crust make every bite a delight that warms you from the inside out. Imagine coming home from a long day, the kind where the chill just won’t leave your bones, and the promise of this pie waiting in the oven.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: The pie can be prepped in advance and baked when ready, making it a great option for busy weeknights. You can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the pie and bake it. This flexibility is a lifesaver during hectic weeks, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal fuss.
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Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with lean protein from chicken and a variety of vegetables, it’s both delicious and nourishing. The combination of protein, carbs, and fats makes it a well-rounded meal that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. Each ingredient works together to provide a balanced diet without compromising on flavor.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for a picky eater or a food enthusiast, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. The classic flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a versatile choice for family gatherings. It’s that kind of dish that evokes smiles and second helpings, ideal for creating lasting memories.
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Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your family’s taste by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Try incorporating mushrooms, corn, or green beans for a twist, or add a dash of thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. This adaptability ensures that you can keep the dish interesting and cater to seasonal vegetables or family favorites.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftovers work great!)
- 1 cup carrots, diced – For convenience, you can use frozen carrots, just be sure to thaw them first. Carrots add not only sweetness but also a lovely orange hue to the dish.
- 1 cup peas – Fresh or frozen peas are perfect; they add a pop of color and sweetness. Peas are also a great source of plant-based protein.
- 1 cup potatoes, diced – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well for their creamy texture when cooked. They absorb flavors beautifully, adding body to the filling.
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped – Yellow onions are a classic choice for their balance of sweetness and acidity. They form a fundamental base for many savory dishes.
- 1/4 cup butter – Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in your dish. It adds a richness that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – This acts as the thickening agent for your creamy filling. It’s essential for creating that luscious, creamy texture.
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth – Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake. It provides a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
- 2/3 cup milk – Whole milk adds richness, but you can use skim for a lighter version. Milk helps create a creamy consistency that binds the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust these seasonings to suit your preference. They’re essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors.
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts – For extra flavor, try using a homemade crust if you have the time. A homemade crust can add a personal touch and a unique flakiness.
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pie crust will bake evenly and become beautifully golden. A well-preheated oven is crucial for achieving the perfect crust.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the sweetness and flavor of the onions. Cooking the onions properly is key to developing a deep, savory flavor base.
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Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until well blended, forming a roux. Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 10 minutes. This creates a velvety base for your filling. Be patient during this step; the mixture should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
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Add chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes. Stir until well mixed. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly. This allows the flavors to meld together. Make sure the filling is not too hot when filling the pie to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
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Roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust. Cover with the second crust, seal edges, and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. These slits prevent the crust from becoming soggy. A well-sealed crust ensures the filling stays moist and flavorful.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on the pie in the last few minutes to ensure the crust doesn’t over-brown. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
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Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice. Allowing it to cool slightly also enhances the flavors.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Skillet: For cooking the filling. A non-stick skillet works well to prevent the roux from sticking. A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking.
- Pie Plate: A 9-inch pie plate works best for this recipe. Glass or ceramic pie plates help ensure even baking. They also add a touch of elegance when serving.
- Rolling Pin: If you’re making your own crust or adjusting the pre-made one. It’s also useful for evening out the dough if needed. A good rolling pin makes the process easier and more precise.
- Sharp Knife: For chopping vegetables and cutting slits in the pie crust. A sharp knife will make vegetable prep quicker and safer. It reduces the risk of accidents and ensures clean cuts.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
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Chicken: A lean source of protein that helps to keep you full and satisfied, supporting muscle repair and growth. It’s versatile and readily available, making it a staple in many homes.
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Carrots, Peas, and Potatoes: These veggies add color, texture, and essential vitamins and minerals to the dish. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, peas provide fiber, and potatoes offer potassium. They create a nutrient-dense filling that doesn’t compromise on taste.
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Onions: Enhance flavor and add a hint of sweetness. Onions are also a good source of antioxidants. They are a foundational ingredient in many recipes for their versatility.
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Butter and Flour: Create a rich, thick roux that forms the base of the creamy filling, contributing to the pie’s texture and flavor. This combination is crucial for the right consistency.
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Chicken Broth and Milk: Provide moisture and depth of flavor. They combine to create the luscious sauce that ties the filling together. The rich broth and creamy milk make the dish indulgently creamy.
What to Serve With This Comforting Dish
Pair your Chicken Pot Pie with a simple green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal. The freshness of a salad or side greens complements the richness of the pie. A vinaigrette dressing adds a tangy contrast to the creamy filling. A glass of crisp white wine or apple cider complements the savory flavors perfectly, enhancing the dining experience. The acidity in these drinks balances the richness of the pie. If you’re looking for more comfort food recipes, check out our Classic Meatloaf or Butternut Squash Soup on {BLOG_DOMAIN}.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you have leftovers, simply cover the pie and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain the pie’s texture compared to microwaving. You can also freeze the pie, either baked or unbaked, for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly with aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. If freezing unbaked, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen. A frozen pie is a convenient option for quick meals down the line.
In conclusion, this Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring a little joy and warmth to your home. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet evening to yourself, I hope this recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen as it has in mine. The act of making it, from chopping the vegetables to savoring the final product, is a celebration of love and tradition. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Sunflower
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
- In a third bowl, combine sunflower seeds and breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken breast first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the sunflower seed mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook at 380°F for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken breasts, spray again with cooking spray, and cook for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.