Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your kitchen with the delicious aromas of this Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky crust, this comforting dish is the perfect solution for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Easy to make and even easier to love, this pot pie is sure to become a favorite in your household.
This Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie recipe is not just a meal; it's a heartwarming experience. With its blend of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, you'll find every bite delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and hearty
- Family-friendly and easy to prepare
- Perfect for leftovers
The Comfort of Homemade Cooking
There's something soothing about the smell of a homemade pot pie wafting through your home. This Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal; it's an experience that can evoke warm memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that each element of your meal is fresh and tailored to your taste. This dish showcases the value of homemade meals, offering comfort and a sense of accomplishment with every delicious bite.
Preparing this pot pie from scratch means you're not just heating up store-bought food; you’re crafting a culinary masterpiece that’s packed with flavor. Every layer of this pie, from the creamy filling to the flaky crust, tells a story of care and creativity. When you serve it to your family, you're not just providing dinner; you're also sharing love and comfort, creating moments that last beyond the meal itself.
Versatility of Ingredients
One of the highlights of this Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie is its versatility. While the recipe calls for specific ingredients like chicken and vegetables, feel free to customize it to suit your family's preferences. Swap in leftover turkey for a holiday twist, or use whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, green beans, or mushrooms can easily find their way into the filling, giving you the opportunity to experiment and adapt the dish each time you make it.
Moreover, this pot pie recipe also accommodates dietary adjustments. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using a combination of chicken and low-fat milk. For a vegetarian option, simply ignore the chicken and pile in additional veggies or beans. The base of this savory filling can cater to various diets while ensuring a tasty outcome, keeping mealtime exciting and satisfying for everyone.
Perfect as Leftovers
One of the best features of the Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie is how well it keeps for subsequent meals. After enjoying your fresh-baked pie, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze portions for later use. Simply reheat it in the oven for a comforting meal that brings back the warmth and aroma of your initial creation. This ability to save time and food makes it not just a dish, but a resource for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
When reheating, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the filling before warming it to restore moisture and flavor. This can prevent the filling from becoming dry, ensuring that each serving is just as delightful as the first. With the Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie, you can enjoy the ease of having a delicious home-cooked meal ready at your convenience, embodying the essence of both comfort and practicality.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup corn
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/3 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Crust
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
Make sure all vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery, and cook until translucent.
Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder until well combined.
Gradually add in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add cooked chicken, carrots, peas, and corn. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into one of the pie crusts.
Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Serve warm and enjoy your homemade chicken pot pie!
Storage Tips
To properly store leftover chicken pot pie, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you plan to enjoy it within a few days, store it in the fridge. For longer storage, place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. When freezing, consider slicing the pie into portions for easier reheating later.
When it comes time to reheat, individual portions can be placed in the microwave, but for the best texture, opt for the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the pie with foil to prevent over-browning, and heat for about 20-30 minutes. You’ll have a freshly warm meal, preserving the flaky crust and creamy filling.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie with a light salad or steamed greens for a balanced meal. A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette can add freshness to the rich flavors of the pot pie. Alternatively, some roasted vegetables or garlic bread can add a delightful crunch and complement the creaminess of the filling.
For a comforting ending to your meal, consider serving a warm dessert like apple pie or chocolate cake. These classic desserts echo the hominess of the main dish, rounding off your family feast with sweetness and satisfaction. Creating an entire meal around the pot pie makes for a memorable dining experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well and can save you prep time.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie
Warm up your kitchen with the delicious aromas of this Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky crust, this comforting dish is the perfect solution for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Easy to make and even easier to love, this pot pie is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Created by: Marina Lowe
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup corn
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/3 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Crust
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
How-To Steps
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions and celery, and cook until translucent.
Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder until well combined.
Gradually add in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add cooked chicken, carrots, peas, and corn. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into one of the pie crusts.
Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g