Ah, the comforting aroma of a Classic Chicken Pot Pie baking in the oven. Just the thought of it takes me back to cozy Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s house, where the warmth from the kitchen wrapped around us like a loving hug. This timeless dish is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished memory, a promise of comfort, and a delightful way to bring the whole family together around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food
There’s something universally appealing about a well-made chicken pot pie. Here are a few reasons why this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household:
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Hearty and Satisfying: This pot pie is a complete meal in itself, packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a perfectly flaky crust. Each bite offers a comforting blend of savory flavors and textures that can make any day feel a little cozier. The crust is intricately woven with layers that shatter crisply under a fork, while the filling oozes with warmth and flavor, creating a harmony that is both filling and fulfilling.
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Family-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will find something to love. It’s a great way to sneak in those veggies! The creamy sauce and tender chicken enveloping the veggies make them more palatable for kids and adults alike. You can even involve the kids in making the pie, turning it into a fun family activity. Let them roll out the dough or help mix the ingredients—it’s a wonderful way to introduce them to cooking and create lasting memories.
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Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or to cater to dietary preferences. For instance, you can substitute turkey for chicken, or use mushrooms, corn, or green beans if that’s what you have on hand. For a vegetarian twist, replace the chicken with hearty lentils or chickpeas, which absorb the flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying bite.
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Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it a wonderful dish for meal prep. The flavors meld together beautifully overnight, making reheated slices just as delightful as fresh-out-of-the-oven ones. This makes it an ideal candidate for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but have little time to cook.
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Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something incredibly soothing about digging into a warm pot pie, especially on a chilly day. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket, providing both physical and emotional nourishment. The aroma alone is enough to lift spirits and evoke a sense of warmth and belonging.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced: Opt for rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time, or use leftovers from a roast chicken. The pre-cooked chicken not only speeds up the process but also ensures the meat remains tender and juicy.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: These add color and nutrition, but feel free to swap with fresh veggies if you prefer. The convenience of frozen vegetables cannot be overstated—they’re pre-chopped and ready to go, maintaining peak freshness.
- 1 cup diced potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work well here for their creamy texture. These potatoes hold up well during cooking, providing a hearty, satisfying bite.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Yellow onions provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. Their mellow flavor base complements the robust flavors of the filling.
- 1/2 cup sliced celery: Adds a bit of crunch and a subtle earthy flavor. The celery also brings a refreshing note, cutting through the richness of the sauce.
- 1/3 cup butter: Essential for creating the roux that thickens the sauce. This fat brings a luxurious richness to the dish, setting the stage for a velvety sauce.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Combines with butter to make the base of the creamy sauce. This forms the thickening agent, ensuring the filling has the perfect consistency.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, especially if using a low-sodium broth. Salt elevates the flavors, making each ingredient shine.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat without overpowering the other flavors. The pepper provides a gentle warmth that rounds out the taste profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: A fragrant herb that enhances the savory profile of the dish. Thyme’s subtle earthiness ties together the flavors of the pie.
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth: Use homemade or low-sodium store-bought for best results. A rich broth imparts depth to the sauce, infusing every bite with savory goodness.
- 2/3 cup milk: Whole milk gives the sauce richness, but you can use 2% or skim if preferred. The milk adds creaminess, balancing the flavors of the pie.
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts: A convenient option, but homemade crusts add a personal touch. Homemade crusts allow you to control the texture and flavor, offering a rustic charm.
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures a perfectly golden crust by the time the pie is done. A well-preheated oven is key to achieving a crisp, flaky crust.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, sautéing until soft. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and thyme until well blended. This step is crucial for building flavor, as the sautéed onions and celery form the aromatic foundation of the dish. The roux created here ensures the sauce binds well, preventing a runny filling.
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Cook the Sauce: Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk, cooking until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Patience is key here; stirring continuously prevents lumps and ensures a smooth sauce. The gradual incorporation of liquids into the roux is what creates that signature creamy texture.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chicken, peas, carrots, and potatoes. Remove from heat. Ensure everything is evenly coated in the sauce for consistent flavor throughout the pie. This step is where the dish starts to come together, with each ingredient playing its part in the symphony of flavors.
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Assemble the Pie: Place one pie crust in a pie pan. Pour in the chicken mixture. Cover with the second crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits in the top to allow steam to escape. For a golden finish, brush the crust with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water). The egg wash not only gives the crust a beautiful sheen but also adds a slight crispness.
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Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. A brief resting period ensures the pie holds its shape when cut, offering a neat presentation.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Creating this delightful dish is straightforward, and you likely have most of the necessary tools in your kitchen already:
- Large skillet: For cooking the filling. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best. These types of skillets distribute heat evenly, preventing hotspots that can lead to burning.
- Pie pan: A standard 9-inch pie pan will hold the filling nicely. Ensure your pie pan is deep enough to accommodate the generous filling without spilling over.
- Baking sheet: Place it under the pie to catch any possible drips. This not only keeps your oven clean but also ensures even browning of the crust.
- Mixing spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the filling. Wooden spoons are gentle on non-stick surfaces and provide excellent control while stirring.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is important, especially for the sauce. Proper measurements ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Every component of this chicken pot pie adds to its nutritional value and flavor profile:
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Chicken: A lean source of protein that keeps you full and satisfied. Rich in essential amino acids, it supports muscle repair and growth. Chicken is also a versatile ingredient that pairs well with various herbs and spices.
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Peas and Carrots: Add color, texture, and a dose of vitamins A and C. These nutrients are important for vision health and immune function. Both vegetables also offer a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the pie.
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Potatoes: Provide hearty substance and are a great source of potassium, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure. Their starchiness helps thicken the filling, adding body to the pie.
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Onion and Celery: Offer a savory base flavor, enhancing the overall taste. Onions are also known for their antioxidant properties. Celery adds a crisp texture and subtle flavor that complements the dish.
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Thyme: A fragrant herb that adds depth and warmth to the dish. It also has antibacterial properties and is a good source of vitamin C. Thyme’s aromatic qualities enhance the savory notes, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
What to Serve With This Pot Pie
While this chicken pot pie is a meal in itself, pairing it with a few sides can round out your dinner menu:
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Fresh Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pie. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, providing a balanced meal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness and crispy texture complement the creamy filling of the pie. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, adding another layer of flavor to your meal.
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Drinks: Consider a crisp white wine like a Chardonnay to balance the savory flavors, or a refreshing iced tea for something non-alcoholic. A lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the dish’s richness, while iced tea provides a refreshing cleanse to the palate.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your pot pie for days to come:
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Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The pie retains its flavor and texture well. This method preserves the pie’s integrity, keeping the crust from becoming soggy.
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Reheating: To reheat, cover the pot pie with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This prevents the crust from burning while the filling warms up. Reheating in the oven rather than the microwave ensures the crust remains crisp and the filling is heated evenly.
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Freezing: You can also freeze individual portions for a quick meal later on. Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil before freezing, then thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This makes for a convenient, ready-to-eat meal whenever you need it.
This Classic Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience to be shared and savored. I hope it brings as much joy to your family as it does to mine. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own, so feel free to adjust and add your personal touch. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Farro
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine farro and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until farro is tender. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- After 10 minutes, add the cherry tomatoes and chopped spinach to the chicken in the air fryer. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, remove from the air fryer and combine with the cooked farro. Toss well to combine.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.