As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a homemade chicken pot pie. It’s a dish that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent around the dinner table. I remember the first time I made this classic chicken pot pie. The aroma filled the house, conjuring nostalgic memories of laughter and storytelling. Now, I want to share this beloved recipe with you, so you can create your own cherished family moments.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food
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Ultimate Comfort Food: This pot pie is the epitome of comfort, with a creamy filling and a buttery crust that warms you from the inside out. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a cold day. The crust is flaky, and the filling is rich and savory, offering a perfect contrast of textures and flavors that soothe the soul.
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Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that both kids and adults adore, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner. The savory flavors appeal to all age groups, and it’s a great way to introduce your children to cooking by having them help with simple tasks like mixing or crimping the pie crust. Children often enjoy the hands-on experience, which makes them more enthusiastic about trying new foods.
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Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals from the chicken and veggies, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Chicken provides essential amino acids and iron, while peas and carrots offer dietary fiber, supporting digestive health. These ingredients come together to create a balanced meal that can fit into a variety of dietary plans, ensuring that your family is well-nourished.
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Versatile: You can easily customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or leftover turkey for a post-holiday treat. Try adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor or corn for a touch of sweetness. You can even substitute the chicken with turkey or beef if you prefer. For a vegetarian version, consider using hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash and a vegetable broth base.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble when you’re ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Simply store the filling in the refrigerator for up to two days, and when it’s time to assemble the pie, just add it to your crust and bake. This flexibility allows you to enjoy a warm, homemade meal without the stress of last-minute preparation.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and cubed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you prefer)
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the pie will bake evenly and the crust will be perfectly golden and flaky. Preheating is a crucial step that sets the stage for even cooking, helping the crust to develop its desired texture and color.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent. Stir in the flour to create a roux, which will thicken the filling and give it a rich, velvety texture. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. The key to a smooth sauce is constant stirring, ensuring the flour doesn’t clump and the mixture remains lump-free.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, peas, and carrots to the skillet. Mix well to combine everything, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce. The filling should be creamy and well-seasoned, with just the right balance of flavors. Taste the mixture at this stage to adjust seasoning, as it’s easier to add more spices now before the pie is baked.
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Assemble the Pie: Place one pie crust in the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Top with the second crust, sealing and crimping the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape, which prevents the crust from becoming soggy. For an extra touch, brush the top crust with a beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden sheen.
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Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to set slightly for easier slicing. Patience here ensures that each slice maintains its shape when served.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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Large Skillet: Essential for preparing the filling, a large skillet provides ample space for sautéing ingredients and mixing the sauce. A well-sized skillet ensures the ingredients cook evenly and the sauce thickens to the perfect consistency.
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Whisk: A whisk is crucial for creating a smooth, lump-free sauce when combining the roux with the liquids. It helps integrate the flour thoroughly into the liquids, preventing any gritty texture.
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9-inch Pie Pan: This is the perfect size for a standard chicken pot pie, ensuring even cooking and a lovely presentation. The pie pan’s depth and width allow just the right amount of filling and crust for a satisfying slice.
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Rolling Pin (if using homemade crust): A rolling pin helps you achieve the perfect thickness and shape for your pie crust. Consistent thickness ensures that the crust cooks evenly without any doughy spots.
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Oven Mitts: Safety first! Oven mitts protect your hands when handling hot dishes. They are essential for safely transferring the pie in and out of the oven, especially when dealing with a hot, heavy dish.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
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Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in B vitamins, which help maintain energy levels and brain function. Chicken’s mild flavor makes it a versatile protein that pairs well with various seasonings and vegetables.
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Peas and Carrots: These veggies add a pop of color and are packed with vitamins A and C. Peas are high in fiber and antioxidants, while carrots are known for their beta-carotene content, promoting good vision and immune health. Their natural sweetness balances the savory elements of the dish.
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Onion and Garlic: Not only do they add flavor, but they also offer antioxidant properties. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits, and onions are a good source of vitamin C and folic acid. They form the aromatic base of the filling, providing depth to the flavor profile.
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Butter and Flour: The roux provides a rich base for the sauce, ensuring a thick and creamy filling. Butter adds flavor and moisture, while flour acts as a thickening agent. Together, they create a luxurious texture that envelops the chicken and vegetables.
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Pie Crust: Whether store-bought or homemade, the crust is crucial for that perfect flaky texture. It provides a buttery, crisp contrast to the creamy filling, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The crust’s texture is a delightful complement to the smooth filling, offering a satisfying bite.
What to Serve With This Comfort Food
Pair your chicken pot pie with a fresh green salad and a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal. The crispness of a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pie. You might also consider serving with steamed green beans or asparagus for added freshness. A glass of crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the pot pie. For a non-alcoholic option, a cozy cup of herbal tea or apple cider is equally delightful. These pairings enhance the meal, offering balance and variety to your dining experience.
Storage & Leftover Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain the pie’s texture without drying it out. You can also freeze the assembled, unbaked pie for up to 2 months—just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If you have a busy week ahead, consider making two pies and freezing one for a quick meal later. Freezing the pie ensures that you have a homemade meal ready to go, perfect for those times when you need a comforting meal without the fuss.
As you embark on your chicken pot pie adventure, remember that cooking is all about love and sharing. I hope this recipe becomes a favorite in your home, bringing warmth and joy to your family gatherings. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Sunflower Seeds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each chicken piece first in flour mixture, then in eggs, and finally coat with sunflower seeds, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.