Hearty Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Description of the Recipe
Experience comfort in every bite with our hearty Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Perfect for family dinners, it’s a must-try! Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a flaky pie crust.
This dish is perfect for family dinners, providing a satisfying and well-rounded meal in one package. The combination of flavors and textures makes Chicken Pot Pie a beloved comfort food that has stood the test of time. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious Chicken Pot Pie that will become a staple in your home.
Ingredients – Chicken Pot Pie
For the Filling:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
For the Crust:
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Pot Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, cook the cubed chicken over medium heat until no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced carrots, potatoes, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Make the roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the liquids: Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk. Cook and stir until the mixture comes to a boil and thickens, about 2 minutes.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked chicken and vegetables back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the pie crust: Roll out one of the pie crusts and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
- Add the filling: Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the pie crust.
- Top with the second crust: Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal.
- Create vents: Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the beaten egg over the top crust for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Tips and Variations for Chicken Pot Pie
- Crust alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, use puff pastry for the top crust only. You can also make a biscuit topping instead of a traditional pie crust.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference. Corn, green beans, or mushrooms make great additions.
- Seasoning adjustments: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of nutmeg can also add a unique twist.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Assemble and bake the pie when ready to serve.
- Individual pies: Make individual Chicken Pot Pies by dividing the filling among ramekins and topping each with a small circle of pie crust.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Pot Pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. A side of mashed potatoes or garlic bread can also complement the dish.
Preparation and Cooking Time – Chicken Pot Pie
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Curiosities and Historical Facts about Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. The dish has roots in both British and American cuisine, with early versions being more of a meat pie encased in a hard crust to preserve the filling. The modern Chicken Pot Pie as we know it today became popular in the United States in the 19th century. It was a practical way to use leftover chicken and vegetables, creating a hearty and economical meal.
In the South, Chicken Pot Pie is often referred to as “Chicken and Pastry” and can sometimes be found in a more soupy form with strips of pastry dough instead of a full pie crust. The dish’s versatility and comfort factor have made it a staple in American households, enjoyed by many for its homey and satisfying qualities.
This detailed Chicken Pot Pie recipe provides everything you need to create a delicious and impressive dish.