The Best Chicken Pot Pie with Homemade Pie Crust
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the comforting taste of traditional Chicken Pot Pie made from scratch! This hearty dish features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy filling, all encased in a flaky, buttery homemade pie crust. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this recipe is a delightful way to warm up your kitchen and satisfy your cravings.
This chicken pot pie recipe has been passed down through generations, cherished for its homemade goodness and comforting flavors. Every bite reminds you of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.
About Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that has been cherished across generations. The delightful combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce encased in a flaky crust makes it a perennial favorite. This dish not only provides warmth but also nostalgia, often reminding us of family gatherings and cozy meals shared with loved ones. By making it from scratch, you elevate this dish to new heights, delivering an unparalleled taste and experience.
The versatility of chicken pot pie is another reason for its popularity. You can customize the filling according to your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you opt for a medley of seasonal vegetables or include additional spices, each version tells a different story. The homemade crust ensures that every bite is a delight, giving a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. It’s a dish that invites creativity and can easily become a family tradition.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pie
For the flakiest crust, keep your butter chilled and work quickly when mixing the ingredients. You want to avoid warming the butter too much, as the melting fat is what gives the pie crust its desirable texture. If you find your dough is too sticky, a little extra flour can help. Similarly, if it seems too dry, add a touch more ice water, one tablespoon at a time.
When it comes to the filling, do not rush the cooking process. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens properly before adding the chicken and vegetables. This ensures a rich and flavorful filling that clings perfectly to the crust. Consider pre-cooking your vegetables for added texture and flavor – this can also reduce cooking time and enhance the overall integrity of the filling.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Chicken pot pie is perfect on its own, but it can be paired with various sides for a wholesome meal. A light salad or steamed vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pie. If you're feeling indulgent, a side of creamy mashed potatoes can elevate your comfort food experience to new heights. You might even consider serving it with a tangy cranberry sauce for a unique twist.
For those looking to spice things up, try adding different herbs and spices to your filling. Thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce new dimensions to the flavor profile. Alternatively, consider incorporating cooked mushrooms, corn, or green beans for a delightful mix and added nutrition. This adaptability is part of what makes chicken pot pie a beloved dish.
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
For the Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
Make sure everything is prepped and ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect pot pie.
Make the Pie Crust
In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, melt butter and stir in flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk. Cook until thickened. Stir in chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes.
Assemble the Pot Pie
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pie dough. Place one crust in a pie pan, fill with the chicken mixture, and cover with a second crust. Seal and cut slits in the top crust.
Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chicken pot pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its flaky texture, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, reheat the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually around 20-25 minutes. This method helps to revive the crispiness of the crust compared to microwaving, which can make it soggy.
For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just pop it in the oven and bake it from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken pot pie is not only delicious but can also be nutritious, especially when loaded with vegetables. Ingredients like carrots, peas, and potatoes contribute essential vitamins and minerals, promoting a balanced diet. Chicken provides lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. The homemade crust can be made with whole grain flour, enhancing fiber content and making it a more wholesome option.
To make it even healthier, consider reducing the amount of butter and cream used in the filling. Substitute with low-fat milk or broth, or use olive oil for sautéing. You can also swap out chicken for turkey or add beans for a vegetarian variety. These simple changes not only lighten the dish but also enrich its nutritional profile, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just make sure to cover it well.
→ What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add corn, green beans, or your favorite vegetables.
The Best Chicken Pot Pie with Homemade Pie Crust
Savor the comforting taste of traditional Chicken Pot Pie made from scratch! This hearty dish features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy filling, all encased in a flaky, buttery homemade pie crust. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this recipe is a delightful way to warm up your kitchen and satisfy your cravings.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
In a skillet, melt butter and stir in flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk. Cook until thickened. Stir in chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the pie dough. Place one crust in a pie pan, fill with the chicken mixture, and cover with a second crust. Seal and cut slits in the top crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 500mg