Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Recipes
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken and vegetables enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky golden crust.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is not just a dish; it's a tradition in many households. The savory filling and flaky crust make it a perfect family dinner or a comforting meal for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy filling that comforts the soul
- Flaky, buttery crust that pairs perfectly with the filling
- Packed with tender chicken and fresh vegetables
A Classic Comfort Food
Chicken pot pie has long been a staple of comfort food, cherished by families for generations. Its warm, hearty filling and flaky crust create a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a sense of nostalgia. This creamy version elevates the traditional recipe with a luscious sauce that envelopes tender chicken and fresh vegetables, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether it's a chilly evening or a family gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap in other vegetables like corn or green beans, or add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. This adaptability makes it an ideal recipe for using up leftover chicken or vegetables from your fridge.
Perfect Pairings
While this creamy chicken pot pie shines on its own, it can be complemented with various sides for a complete meal. A crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie. Alternatively, serve it with roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition to your dinner table. The combination of flavors will leave your guests feeling satisfied and impressed.
For those who enjoy a heartier meal, consider pairing the pot pie with buttery mashed potatoes or a side of garlic bread. The creamy filling, combined with these sides, creates a comforting feast that will warm you from the inside out. Don't forget a glass of your favorite white wine or a refreshing iced tea to round out the dining experience.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results with your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Opt for fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken broth, as these components significantly impact the final flavor. If you have time, consider making your own broth for an even richer taste. Additionally, using a combination of dark and white meat chicken can add depth to the filling.
When assembling the pie, be sure to seal the edges of the crust well to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking. Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, ensuring that the filling stays perfectly creamy without creating a soggy bottom. Finally, keeping an eye on the baking time will help you achieve that perfect golden crust that is the hallmark of a great pot pie.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until tender.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the shredded chicken, potatoes, peas, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust.
Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and cut slits for steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade pot pie!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, storing is easy. Allow the pie to cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it before baking. Wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover the crust with foil if it starts to brown too quickly. This ensures that the creamy filling remains luscious while the crust stays flaky.
Substitutions and Variations
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie recipe is incredibly adaptable. If you're looking to lighten it up, you can use low-fat cream or substitute half-and-half in place of heavy cream. For a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free flour blend for the filling and a gluten-free pie crust, which will maintain the comforting essence of the dish without the gluten.
Vegetarians can enjoy a similar pot pie by replacing chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or even a meat substitute. You can also add lentils or chickpeas for extra protein. Adjust the broth accordingly to enhance the flavors, and you'll have a delicious meal that caters to various dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in this recipe.
→ Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just bake it when ready to serve.
→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or use a dairy-free cream for a lighter version.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken and vegetables enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky golden crust.
Created by: Elowen Carter
Recipe Type: Warm Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until tender.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Add the shredded chicken, potatoes, peas, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust.
Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and cut slits for steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g