Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Ideas
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken and vegetables enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky, golden crust.
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie recipe was inspired by traditional family meals. It combines succulent chicken with a medley of vegetables, all wrapped in a buttery crust. Perfect for cozy dinners!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly nights
- Creamy sauce packed with flavor and nutrients
- Flaky crust that adds the perfect crunch
The Comfort of Home Cooking
There's something incredibly nostalgic about a homemade Chicken Pot Pie. The aroma of tender chicken mingling with fresh vegetables wafting through your home creates an inviting atmosphere that warms both body and soul. This dish brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether it's a chilly winter evening or a simple Sunday dinner, this recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Pot Pie lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt the filling to include your favorite vegetables or even swap out the chicken for turkey or a meat substitute. This flexibility not only allows you to cater to your family's tastes but also makes it a great way to use up leftover ingredients. No matter how you customize it, the creamy sauce and flaky crust will always be the stars of the show.
Cooking Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect filling, ensure that your vegetables are cooked until tender but not mushy. This maintains their texture and adds a delightful crunch to each bite. Additionally, letting the filling cool slightly before assembling the pie can help prevent a soggy crust. If you prefer a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the filling as it simmers; this enhances the richness of the dish.
When it comes to the crust, using refrigerated pie crusts is a convenient time-saver, but feel free to make your own if you're up for the challenge. Homemade crust often yields a flakier, more flavorful result. Regardless of your choice, remember to brush the top with the beaten egg; this will create that beautiful golden color that makes your pot pie visually appealing as well as delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is delightful on its own, but pairing it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables can elevate your meal even further. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pot pie beautifully, providing a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, serving it with some crusty bread allows you to soak up every last drop of the creamy filling.
For a fun twist, consider serving the pot pie in individual ramekins for a more personal touch. This not only makes for a stunning presentation but also allows each guest to have their own portion. Top with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving for an added burst of flavor and color.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp thyme
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Make sure to prepare the filling while the crust is thawing.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, and cook until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Pot Pie
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust. Cover with the second crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits for ventilation. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Pot Pie!
Pro Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they remain delicious for days to come. Allow the pot pie to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it before baking; simply assemble the pie, cover tightly, and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy it, bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's heated through.
Reheating is simple too! If you’re reheating from the fridge, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated throughout. For frozen pot pies, bake at the same temperature for about 60-75 minutes, depending on the size. Always check that the filling is hot before serving.
Nutritional Benefits
This Creamy Chicken Pot Pie not only satisfies your cravings but also offers nutritional benefits. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth. The addition of vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery packs the dish with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber. This wholesome combination makes it a balanced meal that can nourish your body while delighting your taste buds.
The heavy cream adds richness, but you can easily lighten the recipe by substituting with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative. This way, you can enjoy a comforting classic without compromising your dietary goals. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a slice of this pot pie as part of a balanced diet can make for a satisfying meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works great in this recipe.
→ Can I freeze the pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add corn, green beans, or mushrooms for variety.
→ How can I make this recipe lighter?
You can substitute heavy cream with milk or a low-fat cream alternative.
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie
Creamy Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken and vegetables enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky, golden crust.
Created by: Marnie Calder
Recipe Type: Comfort Ideas
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 celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp thyme
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, and cook until softened. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Add shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust. Cover with the second crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits for ventilation. Brush with beaten egg.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, add herbs like rosemary or parsley to the filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g