Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm your soul with this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie recipe, a timeless comfort food that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, velvety sauce encased in a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for cozy family dinners or a delightful treat, this dish brings the essence of home cooking to your table.
The Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate. The combination of flavors and textures offers a comforting experience with every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort food that's easy to make.
- A complete meal in one dish.
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
A Classic Dish for Every Occasion
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie has long been a beloved dish in households across the country. Its roots can be traced back to traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich, savory sauce creates a comforting meal that's both hearty and satisfying. Whether it’s a rainy day or a family gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone around the table.
What makes this pot pie truly special is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs. For example, try incorporating your favorite vegetables or using leftover turkey after the holidays. The flaky, golden crust adds a delightful texture, making each bite a sensational experience. Enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or impress your guests with this classic favorite.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the standout features of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is its suitability for meal prep. Preparing this dish in advance can save you time on busy weeknights while ensuring you always have a wholesome meal ready to go. Simply bake it, let it cool, and store individual portions in the refrigerator or freezer. When it's time to eat, reheat and enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Furthermore, the flavors of the pot pie have a chance to deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious. This not only makes it a practical option for families on the go but also a satisfying one. With just a little planning, you can enjoy the comforting taste of Creamy Chicken Pot Pie all week long!
Ingredients
For the Pie
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 2 pie crusts
Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and celery, and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, around 5-7 minutes. Add the chicken, carrots, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the filling into a pie crust in a pie dish. Cover with the top crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Chicken Pot Pie warm, perhaps with a side salad or bread.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the pie after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
For reheating, consider keeping the crust crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is heated through. This method ensures that you get that delightful flaky texture without compromising the delicious filling.
Customizing Your Pot Pie
Feel free to experiment with ingredients to personalize your Creamy Chicken Pot Pie. Substitute the chicken for one of your favorite proteins, or try using a variety of vegetables like corn, mushrooms, or green beans. For a healthier version, you can also swap out regular milk for a plant-based milk or use whole grain crusts instead of traditional pie crusts.
Herbs and spices can also greatly enhance the flavor profile of your pot pie. Consider adding fresh rosemary, parsley, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, so don’t hesitate to get creative with what you have on hand!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just refrigerate it and bake it when ready to serve.
→ Can I freeze the Chicken Pot Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Warm your soul with this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie recipe, a timeless comfort food that combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, velvety sauce encased in a flaky, golden crust. Perfect for cozy family dinners or a delightful treat, this dish brings the essence of home cooking to your table.
Created by: Heidi Lawson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 2 pie crusts
How-To Steps
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions and celery, and cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, around 5-7 minutes. Add the chicken, carrots, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir to combine.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the filling into a pie crust in a pie dish. Cover with the top crust, sealing the edges. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g