There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade chicken pot pie. Whenever I bake one, I’m instantly transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen where the aroma of buttery pastry and savory filling filled the air. Chicken pot pie isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for bringing the family together around the table, especially on those chilly evenings when you need a little extra warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Dish
Chicken pot pie is a timeless classic that continues to delight families across generations. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this comforting dish:
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, chicken pot pie is surprisingly simple and can be made with everyday ingredients you likely have on hand. There’s no need for fancy culinary skills; just a little patience and love will do. The process of making the crust and creating a rich, creamy filling can be quite therapeutic, offering a rewarding cooking experience.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, this dish is a great way to sneak in some veggies under the guise of a delicious pie. Even the pickiest eaters are unlikely to resist the creamy, flavorful filling enveloped in a golden, flaky crust. Consider involving your children in the preparation by letting them help with rolling out the dough or mixing the filling ingredients.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have in the fridge. Swap out peas for green beans or add mushrooms for an earthy twist. The possibilities are endless, ensuring that every pot pie is uniquely yours. You can even experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor profile to your liking.
- Perfect for Leftovers: The pie tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. The flavors meld beautifully, offering an even richer taste experience after a night in the fridge. Plus, having leftovers means you have a quick and delicious meal ready for those busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food at its Best: Rich, creamy, and satisfying, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to cozy up with a blanket and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. The combination of tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a buttery crust is a surefire way to lift your spirits.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 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). This high temperature ensures a perfectly golden crust. If using a convection oven, consider lowering the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) to prevent the crust from browning too quickly.
- In a saucepan, cook the carrots and potatoes in salted water until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. This step softens the veggies, ensuring they meld seamlessly into the pie’s filling. You can add a bay leaf to the water for extra flavor, but remember to remove it before combining the filling.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed until well blended. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Simmer over medium-low heat until thickened. This roux-based sauce is the backbone of your pie, providing a rich, velvety texture. Adjust the seasoning at this stage to suit your taste.
- Stir in the cooked carrots, potatoes, peas, and chicken. Remove from heat and set aside. Mixing these ingredients off the heat allows the flavors to marry without overcooking the chicken. For an added layer of flavor, consider stirring in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or thyme.
- Place one pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust. Cover with the second crust, seal edges, and cut away excess dough. Make small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. The slits are crucial for releasing steam, preventing the crust from becoming soggy. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil during baking.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make this comforting dish, ensure you have the following tools on hand:
- Saucepan: Essential for pre-cooking the vegetables. A medium-sized one will do the job perfectly.
- Large pot: Perfect for making the roux and combining all ingredients. A heavy-bottomed pot helps prevent scorching.
- Whisk: Helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce. A silicone-coated whisk is ideal for use in non-stick pots.
- 9-inch pie pan: The ideal size for this recipe, ensuring a good crust-to-filling ratio. If you prefer a deeper pie, consider using a deep-dish pie pan.
- Rolling pin (if making homemade crust): While store-bought crusts work well, a homemade crust can elevate the dish with its buttery flakiness. If you’re making your own, chill the dough before rolling for best results.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Each component of this chicken pot pie serves a purpose both in flavor and nutrition:
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, perfect for a hearty meal. It provides the bulk of the filling, making it satisfying and nutritious. For a different flavor profile, you could use turkey or even ham.
- Carrots and Peas: Add sweetness and a pop of color, packed with vitamins and fiber. They complement the creamy sauce, giving both texture and nutritional value. Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers for variety.
- Potatoes: Provide a creamy texture and are rich in potassium. Their subtle flavor enhances the overall dish without overpowering other ingredients. For a lower-carb option, consider substituting with cauliflower.
- Butter and Flour: Create a roux that thickens the filling, giving it that classic pot pie texture. This combination is crucial for a sauce that clings beautifully to every bite. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Chicken Broth and Milk: Combine to form a rich, flavorful sauce that ties the whole dish together. They provide the savory depth that defines a comforting pot pie. For a more robust flavor, use homemade chicken stock if you have it on hand.
What to Serve With This Comforting Dish
Pairing your chicken pot pie with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to new heights:
- Simple Green Salad: The freshness and acidity of a salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the pie, offering a refreshing contrast. Consider adding sliced apples or pears for a hint of sweetness.
- Steamed Green Beans: A classic accompaniment, green beans add a crisp texture and vibrant color to your plate. Toss them with a bit of olive oil and lemon zest for added flavor.
- Bread Rolls: For those who love carbs, a soft dinner roll can be the perfect partner for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. Garlic breadsticks are another delicious option.
- Beverage Pairing: A glass of white wine or a crisp apple cider pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling and buttery crust, rounding out the flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a splash of citrus.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Chicken pot pie is not only delicious but also convenient when it comes to storing and reheating:
Storing: Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the pie’s integrity and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it to preserve the flavors.
Freezing: If you wish to freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing individual slices can also be a convenient option for quick future meals. Make sure to label the packaging with the date to keep track of its freshness.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual slices for a quick lunch. For the best texture, using an oven is recommended, as it helps crisp up the crust. If microwaving, consider placing a damp paper towel over the slice to retain moisture.
I hope this chicken pot pie recipe brings as much joy and warmth to your table as it does to mine. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a delicious tradition worth sharing. Enjoy every comforting bite, and don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding your family’s favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Duck Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the duck wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, toss the duck wings with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder until evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the duck wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook the duck wings at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Once cooked, let the wings rest for 5 minutes before serving.