Classic Chicken Pot Pie Recipe - Comfort Food at Its Best!

When it comes to hearty comfort food, chicken pot pie is an absolute classic. This creamy, savory pie is filled with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich sauce, all encased in a flaky crust. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps of making the ultimate chicken pot pie from scratch. You’ll learn the secrets to a perfectly flaky crust, a creamy filling, and seasoning that brings everything together. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for the Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie

For the Crust:

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/4 cup of ice water

For the Filling:

2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
1/2 cup of butter
1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
1 small onion, diced
1 cup of carrots, sliced
1 cup of celery, diced
1 cup of green peas
2 cups of chicken broth
1 cup of milk
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary

Additional Ingredients:

1 egg, beaten (for the egg wash)
Optional fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Pot Pie

1. Preparing the Crust

The crust is a vital part of any pot pie. It should be buttery, flaky, and sturdy enough to hold the filling. Here’s how to make it:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour with a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the crust tender.
Divide the dough into two portions, form each into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Making the Filling

The filling should be creamy, flavorful, and packed with vegetables. Follow these steps:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.
Add the shredded chicken, green peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

3. Assembling the Pot Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
Pour the cooled filling into the pie crust.
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the top of the pie. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
Brush the top with the beaten egg and cut a few slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Baking

Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

5. Serving

Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

Choosing the Right Chicken

Using a rotisserie chicken can save time and adds a robust flavor to the pie. If you prefer, you can also use leftover chicken breast or thigh meat.

Getting the Perfect Crust

Keep ingredients cold: This ensures a flaky crust, as cold butter creates pockets of air when it melts during baking.
Don’t overwork the dough: Overmixing can make the crust tough. Handle it gently and roll it out as minimally as possible.

Flavorful Additions

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the filling. Sage, oregano, or a pinch of nutmeg can complement the savory flavors beautifully.

Popular Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie

A well-rounded meal includes sides that complement the flavors of chicken pot pie without overpowering it. Here are some popular options:

1. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A light, cheesy zucchini casserole can add a refreshing yet creamy element to the meal. This cheesy zucchini casserole makes an excellent side that pairs well with the flavors of chicken pot pie.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie. Use fresh greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing for a refreshing side.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

While the pot pie itself is hearty, a side of garlic mashed potatoes is always a comforting addition. It makes the meal even more filling and offers a creamy contrast to the pie’s crust.

When writing about other recipes, it’s helpful to link to related dishes or topics to provide additional context. Here are some suggested internal links for your site:

“Easy sweet chili chicken thighs” – This recipe for chili chicken thighs provides a different take on savory, saucy dishes.
“Homemade Banana Bread” – A sweet finish, like banana bread, is always welcome after a savory meal.
“Classic Macaroni and Cheese” – Another comfort food classic, perfect for pairing with a hearty dish like chicken pot pie.

Common Questions About Chicken Pot Pie

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Pot Pie?

To store leftovers, let the pie cool completely, then cover it with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Can I Freeze Chicken Pot Pie?

Yes! Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, pop it in the oven directly from the freezer, increasing the bake time by 20-30 minutes.

Can I Use a Store-Bought Crust?

Absolutely! While homemade crust adds a personal touch, a store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing much flavor. Look for a high-quality, all-butter option if possible.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this chicken pot pie (based on 8 servings) has approximately:

Calories: 450
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.

Conclusion

Chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food, offering a deliciously flaky crust and a creamy, savory filling that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a special occasion, this classic dish is sure to impress. From the perfectly seasoned filling to the tender, buttery crust, each bite brings warmth and satisfaction. Plus, with a few easy modifications, you can make it your own by adding favorite vegetables, herbs, or even swapping in different proteins.

Serve it alongside a fresh salad, cheesy zucchini casserole, or garlic mashed potatoes to complete the meal, and enjoy the timeless flavors of this beloved recipe. So roll up your sleeves, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a homemade chicken pot pie that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Enjoy!

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps of making the ultimate chicken pot pie from scratch. You’ll learn the secrets to a perfectly flaky crust, a creamy filling, and seasoning that brings everything together. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for the Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie

For the Crust:

2 cups of all-purpose flour

1 cup of unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/2 teaspoon of salt

1/4 cup of ice water

For the Filling:

2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)

1/2 cup of butter

1/2 cup of all-purpose flour

1 small onion, diced

1 cup of carrots, sliced

1 cup of celery, diced

1 cup of green peas

2 cups of chicken broth

1 cup of milk

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary

Additional Ingredients:

1 egg, beaten (for the egg wash)

Optional fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Pot Pie

1. Preparing the Crust

The crust is a vital part of any pot pie. It should be buttery, flaky, and sturdy enough to hold the filling. Here’s how to make it:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.

Add the cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour with a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the crust tender.

Divide the dough into two portions, form each into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Making the Filling

The filling should be creamy, flavorful, and packed with vegetables. Follow these steps:

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5-7 minutes).

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring until the mixture thickens.

Add the shredded chicken, green peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

3. Assembling the Pot Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.

Pour the cooled filling into the pie crust.

Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the top of the pie. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.

Brush the top with the beaten egg and cut a few slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Baking

Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

5. Serving

Allow the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

Choosing the Right Chicken

Using a rotisserie chicken can save time and adds a robust flavor to the pie. If you prefer, you can also use leftover chicken breast or thigh meat.

Getting the Perfect Crust

Keep ingredients cold: This ensures a flaky crust, as cold butter creates pockets of air when it melts during baking.

Don’t overwork the dough: Overmixing can make the crust tough. Handle it gently and roll it out as minimally as possible.

Flavorful Additions

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the filling. Sage, oregano, or a pinch of nutmeg can complement the savory flavors beautifully.

Popular Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie

A well-rounded meal includes sides that complement the flavors of chicken pot pie without overpowering it. Here are some popular options:

1. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

A light, cheesy zucchini casserole can add a refreshing yet creamy element to the meal. This cheesy zucchini casserole makes an excellent side that pairs well with the flavors of chicken pot pie.

2. Simple Green Salad

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie. Use fresh greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light dressing for a refreshing side.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

While the pot pie itself is hearty, a side of garlic mashed potatoes is always a comforting addition. It makes the meal even more filling and offers a creamy contrast to the pie’s crust.

Suggested Internal Links for Related Recipes

When writing about other recipes, it’s helpful to link to related dishes or topics to provide additional context. Here are some suggested internal links for your site:

“Easy sweet chili chicken thighs” – This recipe for chili chicken thighs provides a different take on savory, saucy dishes.

“Homemade Banana Bread” – A sweet finish, like banana bread, is always welcome after a savory meal.

“Classic Macaroni and Cheese” – Another comfort food classic, perfect for pairing with a hearty dish like chicken pot pie.

Common Questions About Chicken Pot Pie

How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Pot Pie?

To store leftovers, let the pie cool completely, then cover it with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Can I Freeze Chicken Pot Pie?

Yes! Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, pop it in the oven directly from the freezer, increasing the bake time by 20-30 minutes.

Can I Use a Store-Bought Crust?

Absolutely! While homemade crust adds a personal touch, a store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing much flavor. Look for a high-quality, all-butter option if possible.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this chicken pot pie (based on 8 servings) has approximately:

Calories: 450

Protein: 18g

Carbohydrates: 32g

Fat: 25g