Indulge in the cozy embrace of comfort food with our Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies. These adorable, handheld delights bring together the classic flavors of a chicken pot pie in a convenient, flaky package. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick snack, these mini pot pies are a culinary celebration of simplicity and flavor. Join us on a journey to create these Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies and discover how a bite-sized version can bring immense joy to your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 and 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, salt, and sugar to combine. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just comes together.
- Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, salt, pepper, and thyme, stirring until well combined.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Add the shredded chicken and mixed vegetables. Stir until evenly coated and remove from heat.
Step 3: Roll and Fill the Hand Pies
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out one disk of pie dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
- Using a round cutter, cut out circles for the hand pies. Repeat with the second disk.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken filling onto half of the circles, leaving a border around the edges.
- Top each filled circle with another dough circle and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
- Whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
- Brush the egg wash over the tops of the hand pies for a golden finish.
- Cut a small slit on the top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the hand pies are golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the warm, flaky goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Creamy Upgrade: Add a splash of heavy cream to the chicken filling for an extra velvety texture.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with your favorite herbs like rosemary or parsley to elevate the flavor profile.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated cheese over the chicken filling before sealing the hand pies for a gooey surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made pie crust to save time. Ensure it’s thawed if frozen and follow the package instructions.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies?
A: Absolutely! Once assembled, freeze the hand pies on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
A: Certainly! Leftover rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken works wonderfully in this recipe.
Q: How do I store leftover hand pies?
A: Store any leftover hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy crust.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Option:
For the pie crust, use a mix of almond flour and coconut flour, and replace the sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener. For the filling, use cauliflower instead of mixed vegetables, and thicken with xanthan gum instead of flour.
Low-Carb Version:
Opt for a low-carb baking mix for the crust and a low-carb thickener for the filling. Choose low-carb vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers in the filling.
In conclusion, Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies encapsulate the essence of comfort food in a convenient, handheld form. From the buttery, flaky crust to the savory chicken and vegetable filling, each element contributes to a symphony of flavors that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious. So, embrace the simplicity of a classic chicken pot pie and relish the joy of a perfectly portioned, portable treat. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed on-the-go, these hand pies are a testament to the timeless appeal of comfort cuisine. Bite into miniature comfort with Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies – a culinary journey in every bite!
