Delicious homemade chicken pot pie recipe

Are you in search of a mouthwatering homemade chicken pot pie recipe? Look no further! This delectable dish combines tender chunks of chicken, savory vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all enclosed in a flaky golden crust. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal that will leave everyone longing for seconds.

Ingredients

Crust

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt for the crust.
2. Add the chilled cubed butter to the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring with a fork, until the dough just comes together.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a disk.
6. Wrap the disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until they are heated through.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir to coat evenly.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
6. Add the diced cooked chicken and dried thyme to the skillet, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cook the filling until it thickens and reaches a creamy consistency.
8. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove one of the chilled dough disks from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish.
3. Carefully place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides.
4. Pour the prepared filling into the pie dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the filling.
6. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
7. Cut a few small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Bake the Pot Pie

1. Place the assembled pot pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Make-Ahead Option

If you want to save time on the day of serving, you can prepare the pot pie ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply follow the instructions up until assembling the pie. Cover the pie dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, and increase the baking time by a few minutes to ensure the filling is heated through.

Vegetarian Variation

To make a vegetarian pot pie, simply omit the chicken and substitute it with your favorite meat alternative, such as tofu or seitan. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or broccoli to enhance the flavor and texture.

Gluten-Free Option

If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy a delicious pot pie by using gluten-free flour for the crust. There are many gluten-free flour blends available on the market that can be easily substituted in the crust recipe. Additionally, make sure the chicken broth and any other ingredients used in the filling are also gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken pot pie. The creamy texture and savory flavor of mashed potatoes complement the pie’s rich filling.
• Steamed vegetables: Light and fresh steamed vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and green beans add color and nutrients to your meal without overpowering the flavors of the pot pie.

Dessert Pairings

• Apple pie: Indulge in a classic dessert by serving warm apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of sweet and tart flavors complements the savory pot pie.
• Berry crumble: A refreshing and fruity dessert, berry crumble brings a delightful contrast to the creamy and hearty pot pie. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt.

FAQs

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pot pie before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie as instructed but skip the baking step. Wrap the unbaked pie tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply remove from the freezer, unwrap, and bake according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, let the pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How long does it stay fresh?

A freshly baked pot pie will stay fresh for about 3-4 days when stored covered in the refrigerator. To ensure freshness, cover the pie dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to airtight containers. Reheat individual slices in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I use store-bought crust?

While making your own crust can enhance the homemade experience, it’s perfectly acceptable to use store-bought crust in a pinch. Many supermarkets offer pre-made pie crusts, both chilled and frozen. Simply follow the instructions on the package for rolling out and assembling the crust.

What other vegetables can I add to the filling?

The filling can be customized with a variety of vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Some popular options include diced potatoes, peas, corn, celery, bell peppers, and spinach. Feel free to experiment and add your favorite veggies to create a unique and flavorful pot pie.

Conclusion

With its flaky crust and creamy, hearty filling, homemade chicken pot pie is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or make variations to accommodate dietary preferences, this classic meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or freezing for later. Follow the step-by-step instructions, embrace your creativity, and enjoy the deliciousness of a homemade chicken pot pie.