There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the aroma of a chicken pot pie baking in the oven. It instantly takes me back to Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. The kitchen filled with laughter, the clinking of forks against china, and that irresistible scent wafting from the oven. It was the kind of meal that brought everyone together, and I still make it whenever I want to recreate that cozy, family-filled atmosphere in my home. Today, I’m going to share my favorite recipe for a Classic Chicken Pot Pie with a Flaky Crust—a dish that has been passed down through generations and never fails to delight.
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Classic
Chicken pot pie is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why this classic dish is bound to become a family favorite:
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Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that’s rich in flavor. The combination of savory chicken, tender vegetables, and a creamy sauce enveloped in a buttery crust is both simple and sophisticated. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; each component is carefully chosen to enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the others.
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Family-Friendly: This dish is perfect for all ages, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Whether you have picky eaters or food enthusiasts, chicken pot pie offers something for everyone. The familiar flavors are comforting and universally appealing. Kids love the creamy filling and flaky crust, while adults appreciate the hearty, satisfying nature of the dish.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling in advance, making dinnertime a breeze. This is especially helpful for busy weeknights or when hosting guests. Simply prepare the filling, store it in the refrigerator, and assemble the pie when ready to bake. This flexibility allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without the last-minute rush.
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Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day—if there’s any left! The flavors meld together as they sit, enhancing the taste. It’s a great dish to enjoy for lunch or dinner the following day. Leftovers can be a lifesaver on a busy day, providing a quick and delicious meal option.
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Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy filling and flaky crust are the ultimate comfort food combination. On a chilly day, there’s nothing more satisfying than sitting down to a warm slice of chicken pot pie. The contrast between the crispy crust and the smooth filling is a delight for the senses, making every bite a comforting experience.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients
Let’s break down the ingredients for this delightful dish:
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2 cups cooked chicken, diced: You can use either white or dark meat, or a combination of both, depending on your preference. Rotisserie chicken is a quick and flavorful option. It’s also a great way to use leftover chicken from another meal, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
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1 cup frozen peas and carrots: These add a touch of sweetness and color. Using frozen saves prep time and ensures you always have these veggies on hand. If you prefer fresh, you can chop fresh carrots and use fresh or frozen peas for a more vibrant flavor.
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1/2 cup chopped onion: Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to the filling. Yellow onions work best, but you can use white or even shallots for a milder flavor. Onions are also crucial for building the flavor base of the sauce.
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1/2 cup butter: Essential for creating a rich, velvety sauce. Unsalted butter is preferred, allowing you to control the seasoning. Butter is what gives the sauce its luxurious texture, making every bite indulgent.
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1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, creating a smooth, cohesive filling. This simple ingredient is what transforms the broth and milk into a creamy, cohesive sauce.
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1 3/4 cups chicken broth: Provides a savory base. Homemade broth will bring more depth, but store-bought works just as well. For an added layer of flavor, try using low-sodium broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
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2/3 cup milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce. Whole milk is ideal, but you can substitute with 2% if desired. For a richer filling, you might even consider using half-and-half or cream.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients. Taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right.
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1 double crust pie pastry: The flaky crust is the crowning glory of the pie. You can make your own pastry for a personal touch or use store-bought for convenience. A homemade crust can add another layer of flavor and texture, especially if you use a bit of butter in the dough for flakiness.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a perfect chicken pot pie:
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the pie crust will bake evenly and become beautifully golden. A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky crust.
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until soft. This step creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Cooking the onions in butter draws out their natural sweetness, adding depth to the sauce.
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Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until well-blended. Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking and stirring until thickened and bubbly. Patience is key here to achieve a smooth sauce. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a silky texture.
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Add the chicken, peas, and carrots to the sauce. Remove from heat. Stir well to combine, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
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Roll out the bottom pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the filling into the crust. Use a spoon to spread the filling evenly. A well-distributed filling ensures even cooking and consistent flavor throughout the pie.
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Cover with top crust. Seal edges and cut away excess dough. Make several small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. This prevents the pie from becoming soggy and ensures a crisp top. Crimping the edges not only seals in the filling but also adds an attractive finish to the pie.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool for 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Letting it rest also prevents burning your mouth with the hot filling.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother:
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9-inch pie pan: Essential for shaping and baking the pie. A glass or ceramic dish is ideal for even heat distribution.
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Saucepan: For cooking the filling; a heavy-bottomed pan is ideal to prevent scorching. A good saucepan will distribute heat evenly, preventing hot spots and sticking.
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Rolling pin: To roll out the pie crust evenly. A wooden rolling pin is traditional, but a marble one can help keep the dough cool.
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Sharp knife: For cutting the crust and making steam slits. A paring knife is perfect for this task, giving you control over the cuts.
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Whisk: To ensure a lump-free sauce. A balloon whisk works well for incorporating air and smoothing out the sauce.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall dish:
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Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken is the hearty base of this dish. It’s filling and provides essential nutrients. Chicken also absorbs the flavors of the sauce, making it juicy and delicious.
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Peas and Carrots: These veggies add a pop of color, texture, and nutrients. Peas offer a subtle sweetness while carrots contribute a slight crunch. They also provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the dish more balanced.
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Onion: Adds depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness. It’s a foundational ingredient that enhances the overall taste. Onions also contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
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Butter: Provides richness and creates a luscious sauce. It’s essential for achieving the classic creamy texture. Butter gives a luxurious mouthfeel and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
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Flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency. It ensures the filling holds together without being runny. This essential ingredient transforms the liquids into a rich, velvety sauce.
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Chicken Broth: Infuses the dish with savory flavor. It complements the chicken and enhances the overall taste profile. Using a good quality broth can make a significant difference in the depth of flavor.
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Milk: Adds creaminess to the filling. It balances the savory elements with a touch of richness. Milk contributes to the silky texture of the sauce, making it comforting and indulgent.
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Pie Crust: The flaky crust is the crowning glory, providing texture and a buttery taste. It’s the perfect contrast to the creamy filling. A well-made crust adds an essential textural element, making each bite delightful.
What to Serve With This Comforting Classic
Enhance your chicken pot pie meal with these serving suggestions:
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A Crisp Green Salad: The freshness and crunch of a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the pie. Consider using mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing contrast.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans pair well, adding more nutrients and flavors to the meal. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, complementing the savory pie.
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Beverage Pairings: A glass of chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy filling. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a splash of lemon is refreshing. A light herbal tea can also be a soothing accompaniment.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your chicken pot pie later:
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Refrigeration: To store leftovers, cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It’s best to store in its baking dish to maintain its shape. This method keeps the pie fresh and prevents it from drying out.
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Reheating: To reheat, simply place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm. This helps retain the crust’s flakiness compared to microwaving. Covering the pie with foil while reheating can prevent the crust from over-browning.
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Freezing: If freezing, wrap portions securely with foil or freezer-safe wrap, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming. Freezing individual slices makes it easy to enjoy a single serving anytime.
There’s nothing quite like a home-cooked meal that brings everyone to the table. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Enjoy every delicious, comforting bite!
Air Fryer Eel
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to create a marinade.
- Place the eel fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Remove the eel from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the eel fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down if applicable.
- Air fry the eel fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a minute. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.