Ah, the comforting aroma of a Classic Chicken Pot Pie baking in the oven. It’s one of those dishes that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen. I remember eagerly watching her roll out the dough, her hands moving deftly as she created the perfect, flaky crust. She always said that a good pot pie could warm the soul, and I couldn’t agree more. Whether you’re seeking comfort after a long day or preparing a delightful meal for your family, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food
Hearty and Satisfying
This pot pie is packed with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a creamy sauce, making it a meal in itself. The combination of ingredients creates a filling dish that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the tender chicken to the slightly crunchy veggies. The chicken provides a meaty, satisfying base, while the vegetables add not only a range of textures but also a burst of color and nutrition. The creamy sauce binds everything together, offering a rich, velvety experience that warms you from the inside out.
Kid-Friendly
The mild flavors and creamy texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Children love the soft, creamy filling and the crispy crust. It’s a great way to sneak in vegetables for picky eaters, too, as the creamy sauce envelops everything in a delicious blend. The familiar taste and texture make it an approachable dish for even the most selective eaters, and the fun of breaking through the crust to reveal the hidden filling can make mealtime an adventure for little ones.
Perfect for Leftovers
The flavors only get better the next day, and it reheats beautifully. This dish is perfect for meal prepping, as it maintains its deliciousness even after being stored. The filling thickens slightly in the fridge, making each reheated slice just as satisfying. A great tip for leftovers is to reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave, which helps maintain the crust’s flakiness and prevents the filling from becoming too watery.
Customizable
Swap out vegetables or add herbs to suit your family’s tastes. If you have leftover veggies from other meals, they can easily be incorporated into this pot pie. Add a sprinkle of thyme or rosemary for an herby twist, or try adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can also experiment with different types of crusts, such as a puff pastry for extra flakiness or a whole wheat crust for added fiber and a nutty taste.
Nostalgic and Comforting
It brings a sense of warmth and hominess to any dinner table. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy evenings, providing a sense of tradition and warmth. The classic flavors are reminiscent of simpler times, offering comfort and familiarity in every bite. As the pie bakes and the aroma fills your kitchen, you’re reminded of the joy of sharing a lovingly prepared meal with those you care about.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pot pie will bake evenly and the crust will be perfectly crisp and golden. Preheating is crucial as it allows the cooking to start immediately, helping to achieve a perfectly cooked crust.
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In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, and cook until soft. The aroma of sautéing onions will start to fill your kitchen, signaling the beginning of a flavorful meal. This step is important as it develops the foundational flavors for your dish.
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Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper until well blended. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Cook and stir until the mixture begins to thicken. This roux is the heart of your pot pie, creating a rich and creamy sauce that binds the filling together. Whisking continuously ensures a smooth sauce without any lumps.
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Add the chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes to the sauce. Combine well and remove from heat. Ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the sauce, giving each bite an even distribution of flavors. The vegetables should be tender but not mushy, maintaining a slight bite.
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Place one pie crust in a pie plate. Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the crust. The crust acts as a perfect vessel, holding in all the delicious filling. Ensure the filling is evenly spread to avoid any gaps or air pockets.
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Cover with the second crust, seal the edges, and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. This step is crucial to prevent a soggy crust, allowing steam to release as the pie bakes. Crimping the edges not only seals in the filling but also adds an attractive finish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to settle, making it easier to slice and serve. Cutting into the pie too soon may result in a runny filling.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Large Saucepan
Essential for creating your filling and ensuring all ingredients are cooked evenly. A heavy-bottomed saucepan is ideal as it provides even heat distribution, preventing hot spots that could scorch your sauce.
Whisk
Helps in seamlessly blending the flour with the milk and broth, preventing lumps in your sauce. A good whisk makes the process smooth and ensures a lump-free sauce, which is vital for the creamy texture of your pot pie.
Pie Plate
A deep dish pie plate is recommended to hold all the filling. The depth allows for a generous amount of filling, and a ceramic or glass plate ensures even baking and a beautiful presentation.
Rolling Pin (if using homemade dough)
A good rolling pin ensures your dough is evenly rolled out for uniform thickness. Even thickness is crucial for the crust to cook evenly, preventing undercooked or burnt spots.
Knife for Chopping
Sharp knives make quick work of dicing your vegetables and chicken, saving time and ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking. Uniform pieces ensure that everything cooks at the same rate, providing a consistent texture throughout the pie.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Chicken
Lean protein that’s both filling and nutritious. It’s a versatile ingredient that absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Chicken is also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B6 and niacin, contributing to a healthy diet.
Carrots and Peas
Add sweetness and vibrant color, packed with vitamins. These vegetables provide an essential nutritional boost while also adding a pleasant texture contrast. Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which is good for eye health, while peas are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber.
Potatoes
Provide heartiness and help thicken the filling. They’re a classic ingredient in pot pies, adding bulk and creaminess to the filling. Potatoes are also rich in potassium and vitamin C, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Butter and Flour
Create the base for a classic roux, thickening the sauce. The butter adds richness, while the flour helps to thicken the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy filling. This combination is essential for the smooth, velvety texture of the sauce.
Onions
Enhance flavor with a mild sweetness when sautéed. They add depth to the dish, balancing out the richness of the sauce. Onions are also known for their antioxidant properties, contributing to overall health.
What to Serve With This Dinner
Pair your chicken pot pie with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pie beautifully. The acidity in the dressing cuts through the creaminess of the pot pie, refreshing your palate with each bite. Steamed green beans add a fresh, crisp element that balances the hearty pie. Consider serving with a glass of chilled white wine for the adults or apple cider for the kids. The crispness of a white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the richness of the pie, while apple cider provides a sweet and refreshing contrast for younger diners.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The container helps keep the crust from becoming soggy by protecting it from moisture. To reheat, simply place a slice in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures the crust remains crispy. You can also freeze the pie before baking for up to three months. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen. Freezing the pie is a great way to always have a comforting meal ready to go for unexpected guests or busy days. If freezing, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
In conclusion, this Classic Chicken Pot Pie is a family favorite that never disappoints. It’s the perfect dish to share with loved ones, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or creating new ones, this recipe is a keeper. Happy cooking, friends!
Air Fryer Chicken Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using). Toss until the chicken is well-coated.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to cook in batches.
- Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- While the chicken is cooking, in a separate bowl, toss pumpkin seeds with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- After the chicken has cooked for 10 minutes, add the pumpkin seeds to the air fryer basket and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, shaking the basket once to ensure even cooking.
- Check that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the pumpkin seeds are lightly roasted.
- Remove from the air fryer and let sit for a couple of minutes before serving.