Easy Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe | Classic Comfort Food
As the cool autumn breeze whispers through the trees, nothing is as comforting as the smell of a freshly baked chicken pot pie. This classic dish, with its creamy filling and flaky crust, takes us back to our childhood. It reminds us of the simple joys of sharing meals with loved ones.
Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for easy homemade chicken pot pie. It’s not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to make. Whether you want to impress your family or just crave a cozy meal, this recipe will be a hit.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- This classic chicken pot pie recipe features a creamy and flavorful chicken and vegetable filling nestled inside a buttery, flaky pie crust.
- Homemade chicken pot pie is superior to store-bought versions, which often contain preservatives and excess salt.
- The recipe can be prepped in advance, making it perfect for family dinners and cozy meals.
- This dish is a crowd-pleaser suitable for both children and adults, with a high acceptability rate.
- The recipe is also customizable, allowing you to adjust ingredients to fit your tastes or dietary preferences.
Why This Classic Chicken Pot Pie Will Become Your Family Favorite
The classic best chicken pot pie recipe is a top pick for comfort and crowd-pleasing dishes. It has a flaky, buttery crust and a creamy filling. This filling is packed with tender chicken and colorful veggies.
Using shredded rotisserie chicken is the secret to this recipe’s success. It saves time and adds flavor to the filling. The combination of a perfect pie crust and a delicious chicken filling makes it a hit. Your family will ask for it again and again.
“This chicken pot pie recipe is an absolute comfort food favorite. The crust is so buttery and flaky, and the filling is just simply irresistible.” – Sarah, Food Blogger
This recipe has gotten 1,010 votes and an average rating of 5 stars out of 5. It’s clear that it’s a hit with home cooks. Updates in October 2018, October 2022, and November 2024 show it remains a favorite in many homes.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 431 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Protein | 19g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Sodium | 575mg |
Looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to impress guests? This best chicken pot pie recipe is perfect. Its flavors and texture make it a top choice for comfort food favorites.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
Making a homemade chicken pot pie is all about choosing the right ingredients. You need a flaky, buttery crust and a creamy filling. Each part is crucial for a delicious comfort food.
Homemade Pie Crust Components
To make the perfect pie crust, you’ll need flour, sugar, salt, cold butter, buttermilk, and water. Mixing these ingredients carefully gives you a crust that’s tender and flaky. It’s the perfect match for the filling.
Filling Ingredients
The filling needs chicken, butter, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, and frozen peas. This mix of ingredients creates a balanced and tasty dish.
Seasoning and Herbs
The recipe adds fresh thyme, Italian parsley, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. These seasonings and herbs make the pie smell amazing and taste even better.
Choosing the right ingredients makes your homemade chicken pot pie a hit. It becomes a favorite in your family.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Cold unsalted butter | 1 cup |
| Cold buttermilk | 1/4 cup |
| Cold water | 1 tablespoon |
| Cooked chicken | 4 cups |
| Butter | 1/3 cup |
| Onions | 1 cup |
| Carrots | 1 cup |
| Celery | 1 cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1 1/2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 1/2 cups |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
| Fresh thyme | 2 tablespoons |
| Italian parsley | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
The chicken pot pie recipe has a 4.71 out of 5 stars rating from 821 votes. It’s a hit among food lovers. It serves 8 people and takes about 50 minutes to make. It’s a great meal for a medium-sized group.
Making the Flaky, Buttery Pie Crust From Scratch
Making the perfect chicken pot pie crust is key to a delicious dish. This recipe makes a flaky, tender, and buttery crust. It will make your homemade chicken pot pie even better. With simple techniques and quality ingredients, your family will love it.
Start by mixing flour, sugar, and salt in a big bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix cold butter into the dry ingredients. This makes the crust flaky.
Then, add ice-cold buttermilk slowly, mixing just until the dough forms. Don’t overmix to avoid a tough crust. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them, and chill for at least 2 hours (or up to 3 days).
This chicken pot pie crust can be made ahead and frozen for up to 3 months. This means you can have a crust ready when you want a homemade chicken pot pie. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.
With a bit of time and effort, you’ll get a flaky, buttery crust. It will make your homemade chicken pot pie a hit. Pair it with creamy chicken filling for a classic comfort food your family will adore.
Preparing the Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Filling
To make the creamy filling for your homemade chicken pot pie, follow a few easy steps. First, sauté the aromatic vegetables – onions, carrots, celery, and garlic – in melted butter until they’re tender and fragrant. Then, stir in the all-purpose flour to thicken the mixture, forming a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously to develop a smooth, velvety sauce.
Cooking the Chicken
For the chicken, you can cook seasoned chicken breasts in water until they’re cooked through. Or, use the convenience of a rotisserie chicken. Once the chicken is cooked, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the vegetable-based sauce.
Vegetable Preparation
- Dice the carrots and celery into small, even pieces for a consistent texture in the filling.
- Slice the leek into thin rounds, making sure to thoroughly rinse away any dirt or grit.
- Mince the garlic to infuse the filling with its savory aroma.
Creating the Perfect Sauce
To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, whisk the flour and liquid ingredients together thoroughly. Allow the sauce to thicken to your desired consistency. Season the filling with fresh thyme, kosher salt, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a delightful balance of flavors.
The chicken pot pie filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This makes the final assembly and baking process a breeze. With these simple steps, you’ll have a creamy chicken pot pie filling that’s sure to delight your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Ready to dive into the comfort of a homemade chicken pot pie? Follow this easy recipe to create a classic dish. Your family will love it. The flaky crust and creamy filling make it a comforting meal.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Roll out the bottom crust and carefully place it in a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently into the sides and bottom.
- Add the cooled chicken pot pie filling to the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Top the filling with the second crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top crust with a beaten egg wash to give it a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Bake the chicken pot pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
With this simple guide, you’ll make a homemade chicken pot pie that impresses. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of a dish made from scratch.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Golden-Brown Crust
Making the perfect homemade chicken pot pie is about balance. You need a flaky, golden-brown crust and a creamy filling. Here are some easy tips to get that crust just right:
Egg Wash Application
Brush a thin layer of egg wash on the top crust before baking. Mix 1 whisked egg with 1 tablespoon of milk. This step gives your crust a rich, glossy look.
Venting Techniques
Make small slits or vents in the top crust to avoid a soggy bottom. This lets steam out, keeping the crust crisp. Use a pie crust shield to protect the edges from over-browning.
If the crust browns too fast, cover it with foil. This slows down the browning. It lets the filling cook while the crust gets golden.
With these tips, you’ll make a homemade chicken pot pie with a perfect crust. Enjoy the comforting smell and satisfying texture of this classic dish at home.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Don’t wait until the last minute to make a homemade chicken pot pie. You can start preparing it ahead of time. Just make the parts separately and put the pie together when you’re ready to bake.
The chicken filling can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in the fridge. The flaky pie crust can be made 1-2 days ahead. Keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to put the pie together.
You can also put the whole chicken pot pie together a day before baking. Just cover it and refrigerate until baking time. This makes meal prep easier when you need a comforting dinner.
After baking, leftover chicken pot pie can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices or warm the whole pie in a low oven until hot.
Use these tips to enjoy a homemade chicken pot pie anytime without the rush. Plan ahead and enjoy the flaky crust and creamy filling whenever you want.
Freezing and Reheating Guidelines
Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that’s great all year. It’s perfect for leftovers or making ahead. Knowing how to freeze and reheat it keeps it tasty and fresh.
Freezing Instructions
Chicken pot pie can be frozen before or after baking. Freezing it before baking is best to avoid a soggy crust. Just wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Proper Thawing Methods
- To reheat a frozen, unbaked chicken pot pie, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then bake it as the recipe says, adding a few extra minutes for the filling and crust.
- For a baked pie that’s been frozen, thaw it in the fridge. Then, reheat it in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes until warm.
Always check the pie’s internal temperature reaches 165°F when reheating. This ensures your chicken pot pie is safe and delicious.
Time-Saving Tips and Variations
Creating the perfect chicken pot pie can be quick and easy with a bit of creativity. If you’re short on time or want to try something new, here are some helpful tips and tasty variations.
For a quicker version, use a store-bought pie crust instead of making one from scratch. This saves prep time without losing the flaky, buttery texture we all love. You can also use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey to skip cooking the chicken.
Try different vegetables in the filling to add variety. Mix in broccoli, potatoes, or mushrooms with the usual carrots, peas, and celery. Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley can also enhance the flavors.
For a quicker sauce, use canned cream of chicken and cream of onion soups. Combine these with chicken and vegetables, then season with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. This shortcut keeps the filling rich and creamy without taking too long.
Regardless of the time-saving tip or variation you choose, the secret to a great chicken pot pie is adjusting the seasoning. Taste the filling as you go and add more salt, pepper, or spices to get the flavors just right.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 472 |
| Calories from Fat | 252 |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 13g |
| Cholesterol | 97mg |
| Sodium | 544mg |
| Protein | 20g |
| Vitamin A | 3432IU |
| Vitamin C | 15mg |
| Calcium | 69mg |
| Iron | 3mg |
The beauty of this classic easy chicken pot pie recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment and find the variations that best suit your taste and time constraints. With a few time-saving tricks, you can enjoy homemade chicken pot pie any night of the week.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Chicken pot pie is a hearty dish that makes a great meal. Pair it with a light green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted veggies. For a richer side, creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp coleslaw are perfect.
For drinks, try a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir. They enhance the pie’s savory flavors. For dessert, apple crisp or berry cobbler offers a sweet contrast to the pie’s richness.
Chicken pot pie is very versatile. You can try different sides and drinks to find what your family likes best. Whether it’s a simple salad or a big spread, this dish is sure to please.
Troubleshooting Common Chicken Pot Pie Problems
Making the perfect homemade chicken pot pie can be tricky. But, with a few easy tips, you can fix common problems. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, flaky pot pie every time.
Preventing Soggy Bottom Crust
To avoid a soggy bottom crust, cool the filling before adding it to the pie. This keeps the crust from getting soggy. Also, baking the pie on the lower rack helps crisp the bottom.
Fixing Runny Filling
If your filling is too runny, don’t worry. Let the pie cool for 15-20 minutes before cutting. This allows the filling to thicken. If it’s still too thin, add a cornstarch slurry next time.
Adjusting the baking time can also help. Some pies need 45-50 minutes to set properly.
“The key to a perfect chicken pot pie is all in the details – from the flakiest crust to the richest, most velvety filling. With a little troubleshooting, you can master this classic comfort food dish in no time.”
Remember, every recipe and oven is different. So, don’t hesitate to try different techniques. Find the perfect method for your chicken pot pie recipe and homemade chicken pot pie.
Conclusion
This classic homemade chicken pot pie recipe is a true comfort food masterpiece. It has a flaky, buttery crust and a creamy, flavorful filling. It’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it in advance for busy weeknights, this versatile dish is both delicious and satisfying.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of this best chicken pot pie recipe lies in its adaptability. You can tailor it to your family’s preferences.
Enjoy the comforting flavors and the satisfaction of creating a homemade meal. It will warm your soul and delight your taste buds.
Remember, the key to a perfect homemade chicken pot pie lies in the balance of the flaky crust and the creamy, flavorful filling. With the right techniques and a bit of practice, you’ll be serving up this classic dish with confidence.
Creating memories and bringing smiles to the faces of your loved ones is what it’s all about.
FAQ
What are the essential ingredients for making classic chicken pot pie?
To make classic chicken pot pie, you need a few key ingredients. First, a homemade pie crust is essential. It’s made with flour, sugar, salt, cold butter, buttermilk, and water. The filling includes chicken, butter, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, flour, broth, heavy cream, and peas. Don’t forget the seasonings like thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
How do you make the perfect flaky, buttery pie crust for chicken pot pie?
For a flaky, buttery crust, start by mixing flour, sugar, and salt. Then, add cold butter and mix it in with a rolling pin. Chill the mix, add buttermilk, and shape into dough. Split the dough into two disks, wrap them, and chill while you make the filling. This crust can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for up to 3 months.
How do you prepare the creamy chicken pot pie filling?
To make the filling, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until they’re soft. Next, add flour, seasonings, broth, and heavy cream to thicken the sauce. Mix in shredded chicken and frozen veggies. You can make the filling a day ahead and keep it in the fridge.
What are some tips for achieving the perfect golden-brown crust on chicken pot pie?
For a golden crust, brush the top with an egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon milk). Make small slits in the crust to let steam out. Use a pie shield to protect the edges. If it browns too fast, cover it with foil.
Can you make chicken pot pie in advance and freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie before baking. Freeze the unbaked pie to avoid a soggy crust. Wrap it well in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. For baked pies, thaw in the fridge and reheat at 350°F until warm.
How do you prevent a soggy bottom crust on chicken pot pie?
To avoid a soggy crust, cool the filling before adding it to the crust. Bake the pie on the lower rack to crisp the bottom. If the filling is too thin, add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.