Easy Chicken Pot Pie Simple and Savory Delight

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal, look no further than this Easy Chicken Pot Pie! I’ll guide you through a simple, step-by-step recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a savory delight. With a creamy filling, tender chicken, and a flaky crust, this dish will satisfy any hunger. Get ready to impress your family and friends with homemade goodness that feels special but is oh-so-easy! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 pre-made pie crust (or 2 if desired)
– 1 egg, beaten
Seasoning and Liquids
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Additional Flavors
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
For this chicken pot pie, I use simple and fresh ingredients. The cooked chicken is the star. You can shred it from a rotisserie chicken or cook it yourself. The frozen mixed vegetables add color and taste. You’ll find peas, carrots, and corn in this mix. A pie crust holds everything together.
The liquids come from chicken broth and heavy cream. They create a rich filling. The onion and garlic add depth. Thyme gives an earthy flavor. Don’t forget the salt and pepper. They help balance the dish. I also use olive oil to sauté the onion and garlic.
This simple list of ingredients helps you make a tasty pot pie. For the full recipe, check out the Cozy Comfort Chicken Pot Pie.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is key to a great crust.
2. In a large skillet, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat.
3. Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and 1 clove of minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn clear.
4. Now, stir in 1 lb of shredded cooked chicken and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. This mix gives great flavor and color.
5. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Next, add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
6. Let this mixture simmer gently for 5-7 minutes. It should thicken a bit. Remove it from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
Assembling the Pie
1. Transfer your savory filling into a pie dish. Spread it evenly.
2. If you want a top crust, lay the second pie crust over the filling. Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork.
3. Cut a few slits in the top crust. This lets steam escape while baking.
4. If you’re using a single crust, just cover the filling with the crust and seal the edges.
5. Brush the top crust with 1 beaten egg. This gives a beautiful golden finish.
Baking
1. Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling.
2. Once it’s done, remove the pie from the oven. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy making your easy chicken pot pie! For complete details on ingredients and preparation, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Crust
To create a flaky crust, keep your ingredients cold. Use chilled butter or shortening. Cut it into the flour until it resembles small pebbles. Then, add ice water slowly until the dough holds together. Don’t overmix!
If you want to skip making a crust, use a pre-made pie crust. You can find these in the freezer section of most grocery stores. They save time and can taste great.
Ensuring a Flavorful Filling
To make the filling better, taste and adjust your seasonings. Add more salt or pepper if needed. You can also try adding herbs like rosemary or sage for extra flavor.
Want more veggies? Great idea! Toss in chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers. These add color and crunch. Frozen mixed vegetables work too, as they are easy and quick.
Cooking Time Adjustments
Different ovens can cook differently. If your oven runs hot, check the pie early. Start at 20 minutes and see if it is golden. If using a convection oven, reduce the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C).
If you live at a high altitude, increase your baking time. This helps the crust cook through. Start checking for doneness 5 minutes earlier. Adjust as needed to get that perfect golden crust!
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily switch out some ingredients in your chicken pot pie. If you want to save time, use rotisserie chicken. It is fully cooked and adds great flavor. Just shred it and mix it in.
For those who need a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream. Both will keep your pot pie creamy without the dairy.
Flavor Variations
To give your dish a fresh twist, add some herbs. Rosemary and sage work wonderfully. They bring a lovely aroma and taste to the filling.
If you love cheese, try mixing in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella. It adds richness and makes the filling even creamier.
Dietary Options
If you follow a gluten-free diet, look for gluten-free pie crusts. Many brands offer tasty options that work well in this recipe.
For vegetarians, you can create a meat-free version. Use plant-based chicken alternatives and add more veggies, like mushrooms or spinach. This way, you still enjoy a hearty pie without any meat.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep chicken pot pie fresh, store it in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it safe from bacteria and helps maintain flavor. You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to eat it later, freezing is a good option.
Freezing Chicken Pot Pie
If you want to freeze your pot pie, do this before baking. Assemble the pie as normal, but do not bake it. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Bake it as usual from there.
Reheating Leftovers
To reheat your leftovers, you can use the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the pie with foil to prevent burning. Heat it for about 20-25 minutes. Check that the filling is warm all the way through. If using a microwave, cut a slice and heat it for 2-3 minutes. Make sure the filling is hot throughout before serving. Enjoy your cozy meal again!
FAQs
How can I make chicken pot pie in advance?
You can easily make chicken pot pie ahead of time. Start by preparing the filling. Cook the onions and garlic, then add the chicken, vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Let it cool. Next, place the filling in a pie dish. Cover it with the pie crust and seal the edges. You can either refrigerate it for up to two days or freeze it for later. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, add extra time for cooking.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it fully before adding it to the filling. You can boil it or cook it in a slow cooker. If using frozen chicken, you may want to chop it into smaller pieces. This helps it cook evenly. Make sure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (75°C) before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I serve with chicken pot pie?
Chicken pot pie pairs well with several side dishes. You might enjoy a fresh green salad for a light crunch. Roasted vegetables also make a great side, adding flavor and color. Mashed potatoes add comfort and creaminess. For a fun twist, try serving it with garlic bread or a warm biscuit. Each of these sides complements the savory filling of the pot pie perfectly.
This blog post covers chicken pot pie, from ingredients to serving tips. You learned about the main components like chicken, veggies, and seasonings. I shared step-by-step instructions to make your pie and enhance its flavor. Plus, I provided tips for perfecting your crust and adjusting cooking times. Remember, you can customize it with various ingredients and dietary options. Store leftovers safely or freeze them for later. Enjoy making this comforting dish as a family favorite in your home. Happy cooking!
