Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas
Savor the comfort of a classic Homemade Chicken Pot Pie that's bursting with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory gravy, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in and will quickly become a beloved favorite. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, it’s a timeless recipe that offers warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
This Homemade Chicken Pot Pie is not just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for family gatherings!
The Perfect Comfort Food
There's something inherently comforting about homemade chicken pot pie. This dish is a culinary hug in a flaky crust, bringing warmth and happiness to any meal. With every bite, you're treated to a delightful blend of tender chicken, savory gravy, and fresh vegetables, making it a well-rounded choice for both adults and kids alike. Perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or a cozy solo night in, this pot pie captures the essence of comfort food like no other.
Not only does chicken pot pie provide a satisfying culinary experience, but it also encourages us to slow down and appreciate the simple act of eating together. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes will have everyone gathered around the table in anticipation. It's a dish that not only nourishes the body but also nurtures the spirit, creating memories that are shared with every slice.
A Versatile Dish for Any Season
One of the most appealing aspects of homemade chicken pot pie is its versatility. You can customize the filling according to your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. While this recipe features carrots, peas, and potatoes, feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or even mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The crust can also be adapted; consider using a puff pastry for a flaky twist or a biscuit topping for a heartier option.
This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover chicken or turkey from a previous meal, making it an economical choice that reduces waste. Regardless of the filling you choose, the end result will always be a deliciously satisfying dish that delights the palate. Whether you’re whipping up a pot pie in the fall or winter, or looking to use fresh summer vegetables, this dish can be enjoyed year-round.
Making It Ahead of Time
Homemade chicken pot pie can be an excellent make-ahead meal. After assembling the pie, you can freeze it before baking. Just wrap the uncooked pie in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just bake it straight from the freezer; it may take a little longer to cook, but the flavors will meld beautifully as it bakes.
You can also prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a couple of days. Simply reheat the filling before pouring it into your pie crust, and you’ll have a meal-ready in no time. This makes chicken pot pie a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when hosting guests, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones while still serving a homemade dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Chicken Pot Pie.
For the Pie Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Crust
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the preparation.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Chicken Pot Pie.
Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
Add Vegetables and Chicken
Combine the cooked chicken, carrots, peas, potatoes, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Mix until well combined.
Assemble the Pie
Place one pie crust in a pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture. Top with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Bake
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Once your pie is ready, serve it warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Pot Pie
To achieve a golden and flaky crust, use chilled ingredients and don’t overwork the dough when preparing the pie crust. The key to a successful pot pie crust is keeping your butter cold, which will help create those lovely flaky layers that we all love. If you're using store-bought crusts, make sure they’re thawed according to package directions before use.
Another helpful tip is to let the filling cool slightly before adding it to the pie crust. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and allows for a better cooking process. Additionally, always make sure to cut slits in the top crust to let steam escape, avoiding any potential overflow during baking.
Pairing Suggestions
Homemade chicken pot pie pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. Consider adding some sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or roasted beets to your salad for added color and flavor.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the pot pie alongside a side of garlic bread or biscuits. These options make excellent companions, allowing everyone to scoop up the delicious filling that may spill out. Lastly, don’t forget a glass of white wine or homemade iced tea, which can complement the meal perfectly and elevate the entire dining experience.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so in the oven to maintain the crust’s crispiness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the pie loosely with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
For frozen pot pie, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking if you want to expedite the process. However, as mentioned earlier, you can cook it straight from the freezer. Just remember to increase the baking time and check its doneness before serving. With these tips, you'll keep your chicken pot pie tasting as fresh as the day you made it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables can be used instead of fresh for convenience.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Savor the comfort of a classic Homemade Chicken Pot Pie that's bursting with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a savory gravy, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in and will quickly become a beloved favorite. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, it’s a timeless recipe that offers warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Feel-Good Food Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Crust
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
Combine the cooked chicken, carrots, peas, potatoes, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Mix until well combined.
Place one pie crust in a pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture. Top with the second pie crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Brush the top crust with beaten egg. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g