There’s Something Undeniably Comforting About a Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
It takes me back to those cozy Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s house, where the comforting aroma of freshly baked pie would fill the air. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a dish, perfect for gathering the family around the dinner table. Whether it’s the flaky crust or the rich, savory filling, chicken pot pie is truly a classic comfort food that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food
Chicken pot pie is a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Here’s why it’s a favorite in many households:
- Easy to Make: With simple, straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delightful dish. The recipe breaks down each stage so that you can confidently layer flavors and textures without feeling overwhelmed. You don’t need complex cooking techniques or fancy equipment to create a pie that tastes like it took hours of effort.
- Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The creamy filling and flaky crust are irresistible, making it an easy choice for family dinners. Children are often fascinated by the idea of pie for dinner, and the familiar flavors are sure to win over even the most skeptical young eaters.
- Versatile: You can easily swap ingredients to suit what’s in your pantry or cater to dietary needs. Vegetarian? Use mushrooms or tofu instead of chicken. Prefer a different protein? Turkey or beef works just as well. You can even add some spice with a pinch of cayenne or a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary to customize the flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the filling in advance, and dinner is just a crust away from being ready. You can make the sauce and prepare the filling a day ahead, refrigerate it, and then assemble the pie just before baking. This makes it an excellent choice for a busy weeknight or a stress-free weekend meal.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a hearty meal that satisfies. The combination of lean meat and veggies ensures that each bite is both delicious and nutritious. You can feel good about serving this to your family, knowing it provides essential nutrients from a variety of food groups.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: Opt for organic if possible for a richer flavor and healthier choice. Organic chicken is typically raised without antibiotics and has a more natural taste.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced: Fresh or frozen carrots work fine, though fresh will offer a slight crunch. Carrots add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1 cup peas: Frozen peas are convenient and sweet, adding a pop of color and flavor. They also maintain their texture well during cooking.
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped: Choose fresh, firm stalks for the best texture. Celery adds a refreshing crunch and aromatic quality that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/3 cup butter: Unsalted is preferred to control the saltiness of the dish. Butter not only adds richness but helps develop the roux that thickens the sauce.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: This will thicken the sauce for a rich and creamy consistency. Flour is essential for achieving the right texture in the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, especially if using salted broth. Salt brings out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper will enhance the overall flavor. It adds a subtle heat and depth to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed: Adds depth and a hint of earthiness. Celery seed echoes the flavor of fresh celery, deepening the complexity of the dish.
- 1 3/4 cup chicken broth: Homemade or low-sodium store-bought for the best taste. A good quality broth is key to a flavorful filling.
- 2/3 cup milk: Whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but feel free to substitute with a non-dairy alternative if desired. Milk contributes to the creamy texture of the sauce.
- 2 (9 inch) unbaked pie crusts: Homemade or store-bought, the choice is yours. For ease, pre-made crusts are a great time-saver. A good crust adds texture and is essential to a satisfying pot pie experience.
Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven: Set the temperature to 425°F (220°C) to get a perfect golden crust. A properly preheated oven ensures that your pie will cook evenly. This step is crucial for achieving the desired browning and texture in the crust.
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Cook the Chicken and Vegetables: In a medium saucepan, combine chicken, carrots, peas, and celery. Add water to cover and boil for 15 minutes. Remove from heat, drain, and set aside. This step ensures that the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender yet firm. Cooking them together allows the flavors to meld.
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Make the Sauce: In the saucepan over medium heat, cook onions in butter until soft and translucent. 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. The key here is to stir continuously to avoid lumps, creating a smooth, velvety sauce. This sauce binds all the ingredients together, making each bite consistent and flavorful.
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Assemble the Pie: 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. Sealing the edges well prevents the filling from bubbling out during baking. The slits ensure that steam can escape, preventing a soggy crust.
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Bake and Serve: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Patience here ensures clean, beautiful slices and prevents burning your mouth on the hot filling.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools can make the cooking process much smoother:
- Medium saucepan: For cooking the chicken and vegetables as well as making the sauce. A good saucepan with a sturdy base will help prevent scorching.
- Rolling pin: If you’re making your own pie crust, this is essential. A rolling pin ensures a uniform thickness for the crust, crucial for even baking.
- Baking sheet: Placing your pie on a baking sheet can catch any drips and makes for easier oven removal. It also helps in transferring the pie in and out of the oven safely.
- Sharp knife: For cubing chicken and slicing vegetables. A sharp knife makes prep work quicker and safer, ensuring clean cuts.
- Pie dish: A standard 9-inch pie dish works perfectly for this recipe. Glass or ceramic dishes are ideal as they distribute heat evenly.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Every ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose and contributes to the overall dish:
- Chicken: A lean source of protein, it keeps the dish hearty and filling. Chicken is also versatile and absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
- Carrots and Peas: These vegetables add sweetness and are packed with vitamins. They provide color and contrast in texture to the creamy filling.
- Celery: Offers a subtle flavor and delightful crunch. It’s a classic addition to chicken dishes for its aromatic qualities.
- Butter and Flour: Create a rich, creamy sauce that binds the ingredients together. This classic roux is the foundation of many comforting dishes.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor and keeps the filling moist. Opting for a quality broth can elevate the entire dish.
- Pie Crust: The flaky crust is the hallmark of a great pot pie, providing texture and a buttery taste. Whether homemade or store-bought, the crust completes the dish.
What to Serve With This Comfort Food
Pair your homemade chicken pot pie with a light, crisp side salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness of the pie. A glass of chilled white wine or homemade lemonade can also complement the flavors perfectly. Consider serving with a dollop of cranberry sauce or a side of roasted potatoes for additional heartiness. Adding a fresh fruit salad as a side can also provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory pie.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the pie for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn. To reheat from frozen, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer, you can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, though this may result in a less crispy crust.
Cooking a chicken pot pie from scratch might seem like a labor of love, but trust me, it’s worth every delicious bite. There’s nothing quite like serving a dish that warms the heart and soul. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with personal touches or family favorites. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Chicken Sesame Seeds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for more flavor).
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Coat the chicken evenly with sesame seeds.
- Place the chicken thighs in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket.
- Cook at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for even cooking.
- Once cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve.