There’s something magical about the aroma of a chicken pot pie baking in the oven. It takes me back to cozy evenings at my grandmother’s house, where the kitchen was always warm and filled with laughter. Her chicken pot pie was the ultimate comfort food, with a rich, creamy filling and a golden, flaky crust that we all adored. It’s these memories that inspired me to recreate this beloved dish in my own kitchen, and I’m thrilled to share my version with you.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Comfort Dish
- Heartwarming and Satisfying: This chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is as comforting as the pie itself, making it a wonderful dish to come home to after a long day. The combination of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy sauce all enclosed in a buttery crust is simply irresistible.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a great way to get everyone around the table. The familiar flavors and the fun of breaking through the flaky crust make it an all-time favorite, encouraging even the pickiest eaters to dig in. It becomes more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings joy and delight to the dining table.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling ahead of time, making dinner time a breeze. Simply assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake, giving you more time to relax or enjoy with family. This flexibility is perfect for those who want to enjoy a homemade meal without the stress of last-minute preparations.
- Balanced Meal: Packed with protein-rich chicken and nutritious vegetables, it’s a wholesome and balanced dish. Each serving is a complete meal in itself, ensuring everyone gets their fill of essential nutrients in a delicious package. It’s a fantastic way to ensure that your family enjoys a meal that is both nourishing and satisfying.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s tastes or use up what’s in your fridge. Whether you prefer adding mushrooms, swapping peas for green beans, or using sweet potatoes instead of regular ones, this recipe adapts beautifully to your preferences. This versatility means you can keep the dish exciting and tailored to your family’s dietary needs or taste preferences.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 480 per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 unbaked pie crusts
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensuring your oven is properly preheated is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked crust. The initial high heat helps to set the pie crust, keeping it flaky and preventing it from becoming soggy.
- In a saucepan, combine chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes. Add enough water to cover and boil for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, drain, and set aside. This step not only cooks the veggies but also infuses them with flavor, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.
- In the saucepan over medium heat, cook onions in butter until soft. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Slowly stir in chicken broth and milk. Simmer over medium-low heat until thick. Remove from heat and set aside. This creates a silky sauce that envelops the chicken and vegetables in creamy goodness, binding all the elements together.
- Place the chicken mixture in the bottom pie crust. Pour hot liquid mixture over. Cover with top crust, seal edges, and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. This step is key to preventing a soggy bottom crust and ensuring even cooking. The slits also add a rustic touch to the pie’s appearance.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve. The cooling also enhances the flavors, allowing them to meld beautifully.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Saucepan: Essential for cooking the filling components together and achieving that perfect, thickened sauce. A good saucepan ensures even heating, preventing hotspots that could burn the sauce.
- Baking dish or pie pan: A sturdy, oven-safe dish is necessary to support the pie and ensure even baking. The right pan helps in achieving a crust that’s golden and crisp on the outside yet tender inside.
- Rolling pin: Handy if you decide to make your own crust or need to adjust store-bought dough. A rolling pin allows for even thickness, which is crucial for consistent cooking.
- Knife: For chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients efficiently. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, which can help the vegetables cook evenly.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for all your chopping needs. A stable, non-slip board is essential for safety and precision.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in measuring ingredients helps maintain the recipe’s balance and flavor. Precise measurements ensure the sauce thickens properly and the seasoning is just right.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Chicken: A lean protein that keeps you full and satisfied. It’s a versatile ingredient that absorbs the flavors of the broth and spices beautifully. Chicken is also rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins and phosphorus.
- Carrots and Peas: Add color, sweetness, and nutrients like beta-carotene and fiber. These veggies contribute to the pie’s visual appeal and nutritional value. They also provide a pleasant texture contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Potatoes: Provide a hearty texture and are a great source of potassium. They make the pie filling substantial, adding to its comfort factor. Potatoes also absorb flavors well, making them an integral part of the dish.
- Onions: Enhance the dish with depth and flavor. They caramelize slightly when cooked in butter, adding sweetness and complexity. Onions also provide antioxidants and help boost the immune system.
- Butter and Flour: Create the roux for a creamy, rich filling. This combination is the base of the sauce, providing thickness and flavor. The butter adds richness, while the flour ensures the sauce holds together.
- Chicken Broth and Milk: Form the savory base of the sauce, offering flavor and creaminess. The broth deepens the chicken flavor, while the milk softens and enriches the sauce. Together, they create a luscious texture that coats the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
- Pie Crusts: Encase the filling in a buttery, flaky shell, making each bite deliciously complete. The crust is the crowning glory, providing texture and richness. A well-made crust complements the filling, offering a satisfying crunch.
What to Serve With This Comfort Dish
Pair your chicken pot pie with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pie. The crispness of fresh greens complements the warm, creamy pie perfectly. The acidity from the vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie, making the meal feel light and refreshing.
For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes or a warm loaf of crusty bread. These sides enhance the comfort factor and ensure no one leaves the table hungry. The mashed potatoes add an extra layer of comfort, while the bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
You might also consider serving it with roasted vegetables for a more varied plate. Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or even a medley of root vegetables would be excellent choices, bringing additional flavors and textures to the meal. The roasted veggies add a smoky, caramelized flavor that complements the creamy pot pie beautifully.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Leftovers of this chicken pot pie can be a blessing on busy days. Store any remaining pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen as the pie sits, often tasting even better the next day. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, ensuring the crust remains crisp. Reheating slowly helps maintain the texture and flavor of the pie.
You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes the pot pie an excellent candidate for meal prep or for having a ready-to-eat homemade meal on hand. Freezing individual portions can also be convenient for quick lunches or dinners.
I hope this cozy chicken pot pie brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it does to mine. There’s nothing quite like sharing a homemade meal with the ones you love, and this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Chia Seeds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Sprinkle chia seeds over the chicken and mix until they are evenly distributed.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then shake the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- If desired, drizzle with lemon juice before serving.