There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, golden-brown chicken pot pie fresh out of the oven. Growing up, the aroma of my grandmother’s chicken pot pie would fill the house, signaling that it was time to gather around the table for a cozy family meal. Over the years, I’ve tweaked her recipe to add my own touch, but it never fails to transport me back to those cherished moments. Today, I’m thrilled to share this beloved recipe with you, hoping it brings the same warmth and happiness to your home.
Why You’ll Love This Comfort Food
- Family Favorite: This chicken pot pie is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners. Its comforting flavors and satisfying textures make it a dish that everyone looks forward to, and it’s often requested during family gatherings. The joy of hearing the enthusiastic “Mmm’s” around the table as everyone digs in is truly rewarding.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce, it’s a meal that fills you up and keeps you satisfied. The combination of rich flavors and hearty ingredients ensures that it’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience that leaves you feeling nourished and content. The balance of protein, vegetables, and carbs makes it a well-rounded dish.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh produce, making it easy to whip up without a trip to the grocery store. This accessibility means you can enjoy the dish even on a whim, without the need for a long list of fancy ingredients. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to prepare something special without the hassle of an elaborate shopping list.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare parts of this dish in advance, making dinner time stress-free. Prepping the filling a day ahead and assembling the pie just before baking allows for more leisurely evenings. This flexibility is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests and want to spend more time with them rather than in the kitchen.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or leftover turkey for a post-holiday twist. Whether you’re looking to clean out your fridge or adapt to dietary preferences, this pie is accommodating and flexible. Swap out the chicken for turkey or even ham, and consider adding seasonal vegetables for a fresh take.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced: Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover roasted chicken for added flavor. The choice of chicken can significantly impact the flavor profile of the dish, with roasted chicken adding a deeper, smokier taste.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: These can be substituted with fresh vegetables if you prefer a crunchier texture. Fresh vegetables not only add a crisp texture but also enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped onion: Use yellow onions for sweetness, or red onions for a sharper taste. Onions are a foundational flavor component in this dish, providing depth and a subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms: Button mushrooms are classic, but cremini or portobello can add a deeper umami flavor. Mushrooms contribute an earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 1/3 cup butter: Substitute with margarine if desired, but butter adds a richer taste. The butter is crucial for creating a roux, which thickens the sauce and adds a luscious texture.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency. The flour, combined with butter, forms the base of the creamy sauce that envelopes the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control the seasoning more precisely. Homemade broth can impart a more complex flavor, but store-bought works just as well in a pinch.
- 2/3 cup milk: Whole milk is preferred for creaminess, but skim or plant-based milk can be used for lighter options. The milk softens the sauce, adding a velvety smoothness that complements the other ingredients.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust according to your preference; freshly ground black pepper adds a nice kick. Seasoning is key to highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1 package (14 oz) puff pastry, thawed: Ensure it’s fully thawed before use to avoid cracking when rolled out. Puff pastry provides a light, flaky topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly and the pastry becomes perfectly golden brown. A well-preheated oven is crucial for achieving that beautiful, flaky crust.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and mushrooms, sautéing until soft. The goal is to sweat the onions until translucent and the mushrooms until they release their moisture. This step builds the flavor base of the pot pie.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper until well blended. Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk, cooking and stirring until thick and bubbly. A whisk can help prevent lumps, ensuring a smooth sauce. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon, thick enough to hold the filling together.
- Combine Filling: Stir in the chicken, peas, and carrots, and cook until the mixture is heated through. This step ensures all flavors meld together beautifully, and the filling is evenly seasoned. The ingredients should be well combined, with a creamy consistency that isn’t too runny.
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry to fit your baking dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the dish and cover with the pastry, trimming excess and sealing the edges. For a decorative touch, crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers. You can also use the trimmings to create decorative shapes on top.
- Bake: Cut slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky. The slits prevent the pastry from becoming soggy as it bakes. As it cooks, the aroma will fill your kitchen, whetting your appetite for the delicious meal to come.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large saucepan: Essential for cooking the filling, ensuring ample space for stirring without spills. A wide saucepan allows for even cooking and easy stirring.
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works well, but adjust size as needed based on your pastry dimensions. A ceramic or glass dish is ideal for even heat distribution.
- Rolling pin: For evenly rolling out the puff pastry, ensuring it covers the dish completely. A well-rolled pastry ensures even baking and a flaky texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to the perfect sauce consistency. Precision in measuring ensures that the sauce thickens correctly and the flavors are balanced.
- Sharp knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables and cutting steam slits in the pastry. A good knife makes prep work efficient and safe.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Chicken: Protein-rich and hearty, it’s the star of the dish, providing essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc, which are crucial for energy production and immune function. Chicken is also versatile, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
- Peas and Carrots: Add color, texture, and a natural sweetness, along with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting eye health and immune system. These vegetables are not only nutritious but also bring a delightful pop of color to the dish.
- Onions and Mushrooms: Enhance flavor with their earthy notes and provide additional nutrients such as selenium and vitamin C, boosting overall flavor complexity. They add layers of flavor and a touch of umami that elevates the dish.
- Puff Pastry: Offers a buttery, flaky topping that complements the creamy filling, providing a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor. The pastry acts as a perfect vehicle for the rich filling, adding a gourmet touch to a classic comfort food.
What to Serve With This Comfort Food
Pair this classic chicken pot pie with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. The light, crisp texture of the salad or broccoli contrasts perfectly with the rich, creamy pie. A side of homemade bread can also complement the dish, perfect for sopping up any extra sauce. For a special occasion, consider serving with a crisp white wine like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity and freshness of the wine balance the richness of the pie, enhancing the dining experience.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the pie with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. This prevents the pastry from becoming too dry. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s fully cooled before wrapping and freezing for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing in individual portions can make reheating easier and reduce waste.
I hope this classic chicken pot pie becomes a staple in your home as it has in mine. It’s a dish that brings people together, warms the soul, and is simply irresistible. Enjoy every comforting bite, and may it bring as much joy to your table as it has to mine!
Peruvian Potato-Chicken Salad (Causa Rellena)
This Peruvian Potato-Chicken Salad, known as Causa Rellena, is a delightful layered dish perfect for a summer cookout or picnic. It combines creamy mashed potatoes with a flavorful chicken salad filling.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the diced chicken breast, green peas, diced carrot, shallot, roasted red peppers, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and cayenne, then add mayonnaise and combine. Cover and refrigerate the chicken salad.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash the potatoes in a mixing bowl. Add aji amarillo, olive oil, lime juice, cayenne, and salt. Mash until smooth.
- Line four 6-ounce ramekins with plastic wrap. Fill each with mashed potatoes, top with avocado slices, chicken salad, and another layer of mashed potatoes. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Make the sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, aji amarillo, and water. Adjust the thickness with water if needed.
- Unmold the salads onto plates, remove the plastic wrap, and serve with a drizzle of sauce.
Nutrition
Calories: 658kcalCarbohydrates: 41gProtein: 19gFat: 49gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 58mgSodium: 391mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 7gSugar: 4gVitamin C: 19mgCalcium: 34mgIron: 1mg
Notes
For a vibrant presentation, garnish with cherry tomatoes and cilantro. Adjust the aji amarillo to your taste for desired spiciness.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!