Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with our homemade Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Bursting with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, this classic dish is sure to warm your soul and delight your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or simply craving a hearty meal on a chilly evening, this Chicken Pot Pie is guaranteed to be a hit. Join us as we journey through the steps of creating this timeless favorite from scratch and discover why it’s a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, cut into cubes
- 1.5 cups carrots, diced
- 2 cups peeled potatoes, cut into small cubes
- 1 cup butter, cubed
- 1 cup each of frozen peas and corn
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 4 sheets of pie crust from the refrigerated section
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, potatoes, peas, corn, and chopped onion. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Flour and Thyme: Sprinkle the flour and dried thyme over the cooked vegetables. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add Milk and Chicken Broth: Gradually pour in the whole milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Chicken: Add the cooked chicken cubes to the pot, stirring gently to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out two sheets of pie crust and line the bottom of a deep-dish pie plate with one sheet. Pour the chicken and vegetable filling into the pie crust.
- Cover with Remaining Crust: Place the remaining two sheets of pie crust over the top of the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
- Ventilate: Use a sharp knife to make several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the Chicken Pot Pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Homemade Pie Crust: If you prefer, you can make your own pie crust from scratch instead of using store-bought crust. Simply follow your favorite pie crust recipe and use it to line the pie plate.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix to suit your preferences. You can add mushrooms, celery, or green beans for extra flavor and texture.
- Creamy Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream to the filling mixture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, consider the following modifications:
- Crust Substitute: Instead of traditional pie crust, you can use a low-carb alternative such as almond flour or coconut flour crust.
- Vegetable Choices: Opt for low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, or bell peppers instead of potatoes and corn.
- Thickening Agent: Use xanthan gum or a keto-friendly thickener instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Simply cut it into cubes and add it to the pot with the vegetables.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie? A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked Chicken Pot Pie for up to three months. Wrap the assembled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding extra baking time as needed.
Q: Can I make individual pot pies instead of one large pie? A: Absolutely! Simply divide the filling and pie crust into individual ramekins or mini pie dishes and assemble as directed. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
In conclusion, Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to satisfy. With its tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy sauce, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or sharing it with friends at a potluck, this homemade Chicken Pot Pie is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of comforting goodness that will warm your heart and soul.
