Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up on a chilly evening with this comforting Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Perfectly seasoned chunks of tender chicken and colorful vegetables are enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust that will make your taste buds dance. This classic dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use leftover chicken, making it a cozy, family-friendly meal that everyone will love.
Chicken pot pie is a beloved comfort food that brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction with every bite. This recipe combines tradition with taste, ensuring a delightful experience for anyone at the table.
The Comfort of Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings when you want something warm and satisfying. This dish combines the rich flavors of tender chicken and a medley of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. It's not just nourishment; it's a hug in a dish, offering a sense of nostalgia that many associate with home-cooked meals from childhood.
One of the best aspects of chicken pot pie is its versatility. You can incorporate a variety of vegetables to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. From green beans to corn, the possibilities are endless. Plus, it provides a wonderful opportunity to use up leftover chicken, making it a practical choice for busy families.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
This chicken pot pie recipe is not just for family dinners; it's also a great option for gatherings and potlucks. Its hearty nature means it can easily feed a crowd, and its comforting flavors can win over even the pickiest eaters. Serve it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the pie, and you've got a complete meal that feels both special and familiar.
In addition, chicken pot pie is a fantastic way to introduce kids to cooking. The steps are simple enough for younger chefs, and they can feel proud as they help prepare a family favorite. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories in the kitchen.
Making Chicken Pot Pie Your Own
While this recipe provides a classic base, you can easily customize your chicken pot pie to suit your tastes. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or sage for an extra depth of flavor. You could also mix in a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cheese for a modern twist. Experimenting with the filling allows you to create a signature dish that reflects your unique culinary style.
Moreover, if you're aiming for a healthier alternative, you can swap out the butter for a lighter option or use whole wheat pie crusts. The key is to keep that core comforting essence while making it suit your dietary preferences or restrictions.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
For the Crust
- 2 frozen pie crusts
Ensure you have everything prepared before starting to cook!
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk; cook until thickened. Add chicken, carrots, peas, celery, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the filling into one pie crust and cover with the second crust. Cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy this classic comfort food!
Tips for the Ideal Pot Pie
For the best chicken pot pie outcome, consider using a mix of white and dark meat. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives a richer texture. Additionally, don’t skimp on the cooking time for your filling; ensuring it’s thick and well-seasoned before it hits the oven will elevate your final dish significantly.
If you're preparing this dish ahead of time, you can make the filling and store it separately. Just assemble it in the crust just prior to baking for a fresh-from-the-oven experience. This approach is fantastic for meal prep and will save you time on busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken pot pie is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables can enhance the meal experience. A refreshing garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the pie, providing a nice balance to your plate.
Additionally, consider serving it with a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lighter-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. The acidity in these wines complements the creaminess of the pie beautifully, creating a lovely dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is often the case, given its hearty nature), storing chicken pot pie correctly is essential. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, which can last for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat the pie in the oven to retain its flaky crust. Simply cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This method will keep your chicken pot pie tasting fresh and delicious, as if it was just made!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great for saving time.
→ How can I make it healthier?
Substitute with whole grain crust and add more vegetables.
Chicken Pot Pie
Warm up on a chilly evening with this comforting Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Perfectly seasoned chunks of tender chicken and colorful vegetables are enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust that will make your taste buds dance. This classic dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use leftover chicken, making it a cozy, family-friendly meal that everyone will love.
Created by: Rosie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup onion, diced
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
For the Crust
- 2 frozen pie crusts
How-To Steps
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk; cook until thickened. Add chicken, carrots, peas, celery, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the filling into one pie crust and cover with the second crust. Cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 15g