Easy Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe For Dinner

As the cool autumn breeze whispers through the windows, nothing beats the comforting aroma of a freshly baked chicken pot pie. This classic dish was a staple in my family, bringing us together. Now, I’m excited to share an easy homemade recipe that captures that timeless comfort.

Chicken pot pie is a beloved comfort food in many hearts. This easy homemade recipe lets you make a delicious, restaurant-quality dish at home. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flaky, golden crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Key Takeaways

• Easy-to-follow homemade chicken pot pie recipe
• Utilizes leftover or rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Creamy filling without the need for canned soup
• Flaky, golden crust that’s perfect for any occasion
• Comforting, family-friendly dish that’s sure to satisfy

The Perfect Comfort Food: Traditional Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie has been a favorite for many years. It’s a meal that warms the heart and soul. This dish has a long history, starting in ancient Greece and Rome. Over time, the recipe has changed, but the core ingredients remain the same.

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken pot pie recipe is loved by many. It’s simple to make with easy-to-find ingredients. The mix of chicken, veggies, and creamy sauce is both comforting and flavorful. The homemade crust adds a nice texture to each bite.

You can also make this recipe your own. Try using leftover turkey or add more veggies to make it vegetarian. It’s perfect for any day of the week, whether you’re busy or just want to relax.

This comfort food meal and hearty chicken dinner is a timeless classic. It combines tender chicken, veggies, and creamy sauce in a flaky crust. It’s easy to see why chicken pot pie has been a family favorite for so long.

Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Pot Pie

Making a delicious homemade chicken pot pie starts with the right ingredients. Whether you’re a pro or new to cooking, you need a few key things. From the flaky crust to the savory filling, each part is important for a great chicken pie or easy pot pie experience.

The heart of this recipe is the ingredients that come together. You’ll need a pie crust, either store-bought or homemade for that flaky texture. You’ll also need unsalted butter, onions, and all-purpose flour for the creamy filling. Season it with salt and pepper.

Chicken broth or stock, along with milk, help bind the filling. The star of the show is the shredded chicken. Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time. Frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and celery add color and texture. For extra flavor, add a dash of poultry seasoning.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a homemade chicken pot pie that will please your taste buds and warm your heart. Enjoy a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any time.

How to Make the Flakiest Pie Crust

Making a flaky pie crust is key for a great homemade chicken pot pie. You can use a store-bought or homemade crust. Here are some tips for the perfect texture and flavor.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Crust Options

Refrigerated pie crust from the store can save time. Just let it warm up before you roll it out. Making your own crust? Use cold butter or shortening and handle it gently for flakiness.

Tips for Perfect Crust Handling

• Use a mix of butter and shortening for flakiness.
• Don’t overwork the dough to avoid toughness.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to keep its shape.
• Use a pie crust shield or foil to prevent burning.
• Prick the bottom crust with a fork to let steam out and prevent sogginess.

Follow these flaky pie crust recipe tips for a golden-brown crust. It will perfectly match the creamy filling of your chicken pot pie.

Creating the Creamy Chicken Filling

The secret to a delicious creamy chicken filling is in the preparation. Start by making a flavorful roux, which is the sauce’s base. Melt butter in a pan, then mix in flour to create a thick paste. Sauté onions in the roux until they’re soft and smell great.

Slowly add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This mix will thicken into a rich, creamy sauce. This homemade version is way better than canned soups in taste and texture.

Now, add the main ingredient – shredded chicken and your favorite mixed veggies, like peas, carrots, and celery. Mix everything well until the filling is hot and combined. The creamy chicken filling can be made ahead and chilled for up to a day before you assemble your pot pie.

“The secret to a truly satisfying chicken pot pie is in the creamy, flavorful filling. This recipe delivers on both counts, with a homemade sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and vegetables.”

Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a classic chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a complete meal in one dish. Follow these easy steps to make your own homemade pot pie.

Preparing the Filling

First, heat your oven to 425°F. In a big saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3-5 minutes until they’re soft.

Then, mix in flour to make a roux. Slowly add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly. This will take about 5-10 minutes to thicken.

After the sauce thickens, add cooked chicken, diced potatoes, carrots, frozen peas, and corn. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer for 5 more minutes, then turn off the heat.

Assembly Tips

Take out your pie crusts and place one in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill it with the chicken pot pie mixture. Put the second crust on top, crimp the edges, and cut slits for steam.

Baking Guidelines

Bake the pie for 35-40 minutes. The crust should be golden, and the filling bubbly. Cover the crust edges with foil for the last 15-20 minutes to avoid burning.

Let the pie cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. Enjoy your baking chicken pot pie as a perfect one-dish dinner!

Choosing and Preparing Your Vegetables

When making a hearty chicken dinner, picking and prepping your veggies is key. For this classic chicken pot pie, a frozen mix of carrots, peas, and green beans is great. Just thaw them before adding to the creamy filling.

Using fresh veggies is also an option. But, you might need to cook them first to make sure they’re soft and ready by the time the pie bakes. Adding corn or potatoes can also enhance the dish’s texture and taste.

By choosing and preparing your veggies well, you’ll make a hearty chicken dinner that looks good and tastes amazing. Every bite of this chicken pot pie will offer a perfect mix of textures and nutrients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Homemade chicken pot pie is a favorite for many families. It’s great because you can make it ahead of time. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s look at the best ways to store, freeze, and reheat your pie.

Freezing Instructions

The filling can be made a day before and chilled. To freeze, prepare the pie but don’t bake it yet. Put the pie in a metal or foil pan to avoid breakage. Then, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.

Freeze the pie for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil. Bake the frozen pie for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 35-40 minutes until it’s golden.

Reheating Methods

Leftover pie can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, place the pie slices in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, until hot.

Learning how to make and store this easy pot pie recipe is a game-changer. You can enjoy homemade chicken pot pie whenever you want, with little effort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect homemade pot pie needs careful attention and avoiding common mistakes. One big issue is overbaking, which can dry out the filling. To avoid this, watch the baking time closely and check the filling’s internal temperature. This ensures it’s hot without being overcooked.

Another mistake is forgetting to vent the top crust. Not making small slits or holes in the dough can cause steam to build up. This can make the crust soggy or even burst. Always vent the top to let the steam out while baking.

1. If the filling seems too thin, you can thicken it with a cornstarch slurry or more broth. This helps get the creamy consistency you want.
2. When freezing pot pies, don’t use glass baking dishes. The sudden temperature change can break the glass. Instead, use metal or ceramic pans.
3. Don’t freeze pot pies that are already baked. The crust can get soggy and unappetizing when reheated.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make sure your homemade pot pie is perfectly flaky. It will have a rich and delicious filling every time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

The chicken pot pie recipe is very flexible. You can make it fit many diets or just change the taste. There are many ways to make it, from vegetarian to low-carb options.

Dietary Modifications

For a vegetarian version, just add more veggies and skip the chicken. Use mushrooms, carrots, peas, and potatoes for a tasty filling. Or, try diced tofu or plant-based proteins as a chicken substitute.

Low-carb fans can enjoy a “bottomless” pot pie with just a top crust. This cuts down carbs but keeps the great taste. For a lactose-free option, use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.

Ingredient Alternatives

• Try turkey instead of chicken for a Thanksgiving twist.
• Play with herbs and spices like rosemary, garlic, or thyme for new flavors.
• Use puff pastry for a flakier, richer crust.
• Add seasonal veggies like butternut squash, green beans, or sweet potatoes.

Creating a great chicken pot pie recipe variation is all about mixing flavors and textures. It’s also about making it fit your diet or adding your own twist. With some trial and error, you’ll find the perfect version for you.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Chicken pot pie is a hearty, comforting comfort food meal that can be the main course. Adding a few delightful side dishes can make your meal even better. It creates a well-rounded, satisfying experience.

Try serving your homemade chicken pot pie with a fresh green salad or creamy mashed potatoes. For a sweet touch, roasted honey-glazed carrots or sautéed broccoli are great choices.

For a sweet ending to your comfort food meal, consider chocolate chip cookie cheesecake cups or cosmic brownie cookies. These desserts will complement the savory chicken pot pie perfectly.

Suggested Side Dish Recipes:

• Honey Roasted Beets & Carrots
• Honey Butter Skillet Corn
• Jalapeño Poppers
• Slow Cooker Baby Carrots with Honey and Brown Sugar
• Sunflower Crunch Kale and Cabbage Salad
• Baked Beet Chips
• Vegan Cauliflower Pops
• Egyptian Sweet Bread Rolls
• Provence-Inspired Mixed Olive Tapenade
• Amped Up Broccoli Salad

When choosing side dishes, aim to balance the rich flavors of the chicken pot pie. Use fresh, vibrant accompaniments. Try seasonal vegetables, unique flavors, and easy dishes for a memorable comfort food meal.

Time-Saving Tips and Kitchen Hacks

Making homemade chicken pot pie doesn’t have to be hard. A few kitchen tricks can make it quicker and more enjoyable. Start by using a rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on prep time. You can also make the filling ahead of time and chill it until you’re ready to bake.

Choosing pre-made pie crusts can save you time too. A food processor or chopper makes chopping veggies fast. Plus, making two pies and freezing one for later is a great idea. These tips help you enjoy the easy pot pie recipe with less effort.

The secret to a great homemade chicken pot pie is using quality ingredients and smart prep. With these hacks, you can enjoy this classic dish without spending too much time cooking.