Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Family Meals
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie, filled with tender chicken and vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry crust.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. It's packed with flavor and is perfect for chilly nights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy filling bursting with flavor
- Flaky, buttery crust that perfectly complements the filling
- A wholesome meal in one dish, perfect for sharing
A Classic Comfort Food
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It's perfect for family gatherings, chilly evenings, or whenever you crave something hearty and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a velvety sauce, makes each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a celebration of comfort food at its finest.
The origins of chicken pot pie date back to ancient times when meats were encased in pastry to preserve them. Today, this dish has evolved into a beloved favorite across many cultures. Whether you prefer a homemade crust or a store-bought option, the key is in the creamy filling that brings everything together. With each slice, you can enjoy a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey, or add your favorite vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms. This dish is forgiving and can be adapted based on what you have on hand, making it a fantastic option for using up leftovers.
For a lighter version, consider using a mixture of low-fat cream and chicken broth, or if you're looking to boost the nutrition, add leafy greens like spinach or kale. The possibilities are endless, and experimenting with different ingredients can lead to exciting new flavors that keep this dish fresh and appealing.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is an excellent choice for meal prep, as it freezes beautifully. You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply assemble the pie and bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This convenience makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Not only does it save time, but it also allows you to serve a homemade meal that's both comforting and nutritious. By having a delicious pot pie on hand, you can easily satisfy your cravings while ensuring you and your family are eating wholesome food, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Creamy Chicken Pot Pie:
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 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 these ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie:
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring continuously until thickened. Mix in the chicken, peas, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
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 chicken filling into the crust. Cover with the second crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Pot Pie!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling. You can also use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a festive twist.
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie experience, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the rich and creamy filling of the pie. This balance of flavors and textures elevates the meal and makes it feel complete.
Additionally, serving the pie with crusty bread can be a delightful way to soak up the extra sauce. Whether you opt for a baguette, sourdough, or even homemade biscuits, the bread complements the dish and adds an extra layer of comfort to your dining experience.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole pie in the oven, covered with foil to prevent over-browning. This ensures you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your pot pie even after the first serving.
For longer storage, consider freezing the pot pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrapping and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Nutritional Benefits
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie offers a variety of nutritional benefits, especially when made with wholesome ingredients. Chicken is a lean protein source, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function. Combined with vegetables like carrots and peas, you’re not only adding flavor but also a wealth of vitamins and minerals.
Moreover, the dish can be made with whole grain crusts or alternative flours to increase fiber content. This can be particularly beneficial for digestive health. By choosing fresh ingredients and controlling the amount of cream or butter, you can enjoy a comforting meal that’s also mindful of your health.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie in advance. Just refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.
→ What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative, but the texture may be slightly different.
→ Can I freeze the pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pot pie before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
→ What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms based on your preference!
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie, filled with tender chicken and vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Created by: Belinda Fraser
Recipe Type: Family Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 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, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring continuously until thickened. Mix in the chicken, peas, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken filling into the crust. Cover with the second crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling. You can also use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a festive twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g