Comfort Chicken Pot Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
I’ve always believed that a warm bowl of chicken pot pie can cure just about anything. This Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is my go-to recipe for chilly evenings when I crave something hearty and satisfying. The creamy filling, loaded with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, is enveloped in a golden, flaky crust that beckons to be devoured. Each bite is a hug in a dish, bringing back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights at home. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen too!
Cooking this Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience that fills the air with the most inviting aromas. I remember the first time I made it, I took my time sautéing the mirepoix until it was perfectly caramelized, which added depth to the filling that made all the difference. My family couldn't stop raving about it!
The secret to achieving a perfectly golden crust lies in chilling the dough before baking. This step ensures that the butter remains solid while baking, yielding that flaky texture we all adore. Once you try it, you'll understand why this recipe is a cherished favorite in our home.
You'll Love This Recipe Because
- Rich and creamy filling that comfortingly warms you up
- Flaky, homemade crust that adds the perfect texture
- Packed with wholesome ingredients for a hearty meal
Mastering the Pie Crust
The crust is undeniably the foundation of your Comfort Chicken Pot Pie, so taking the time to master it is essential. When cutting in the cold butter, you want to aim for the texture of coarse crumbs. If you overwork the dough, the crust will become tough instead of flaky. I recommend using a pastry cutter for this step, as it helps achieve that perfect consistency without warming the butter too much.
After mixing the dough, wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating is crucial. This resting period not only chills the butter, helping it firm up, but also allows the gluten in the flour to relax, making the dough easier to roll out. If you’re short on time, try refrigerating it for just 15-20 minutes; however, 30 minutes is ideal for the best texture.
Understanding the Filling
The filling of your pot pie is where you can get creative! While the classic combination of chicken, peas, and carrots is delicious, feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Corn, green beans, or even mushrooms work beautifully in this creamy mix. Just ensure that they are diced smaller and cooked until tender, similar to the carrots and potatoes, to achieve a harmonious texture.
For a richer flavor, I often prefer using homemade chicken broth over store-bought. If you're in a pinch and only have water, consider adding some herbs or spices directly into the filling to enhance the taste. A splash of white wine can also elevate the dish beautifully; just add it after cooking the vegetables and allow it to reduce slightly before adding the broth and milk.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious chicken pot pie:
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, 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 thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crust Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
With all the ingredients ready, you're set to make a comforting meal for your loved ones!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Comfort Chicken Pot Pie:
Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Cook the Filling
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Add chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pie crust and place half in a pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture, then cover with the remaining crust. Seal and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Your Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve warm for the best experience.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to let the pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set a bit, making for cleaner slices. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flavor!
Make-Ahead Tips
This Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is a fantastic make-ahead dish! You can prepare the filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid excess condensation, which could make the filling watery.
You can also freeze the assembled pie before baking. For best results, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply pop it into the oven, but increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
While the Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is a hearty meal on its own, complementing it with a simple side salad can enhance your dining experience. A fresh mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette provides a zesty contrast to the rich, creamy filling.
For an extra touch of warmth, serve the pie with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. You could even spread a bit of softened butter on the bread to tie everything together beautifully. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a comforting lunch, this meal is sure to satisfy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought crust instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing too much flavor.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add corn, green beans, or mushrooms for a different profile.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and crust in advance and assemble the pie just before baking.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Comfort Chicken Pot Pie
I’ve always believed that a warm bowl of chicken pot pie can cure just about anything. This Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is my go-to recipe for chilly evenings when I crave something hearty and satisfying. The creamy filling, loaded with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, is enveloped in a golden, flaky crust that beckons to be devoured. Each bite is a hug in a dish, bringing back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights at home. Trust me, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen too!
What You'll Need
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, 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 thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Crust Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for another minute. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Add chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pie crust and place half in a pie dish. Fill with the chicken mixture, then cover with the remaining crust. Seal and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Extra Tips
- Make sure to let the pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set a bit, making for cleaner slices. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for added flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 6g