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How to Make the Creamiest Creamy Chicken Hand Pies That’ll Make You Feel Right at Home!
Every time I make Creamy Chicken Hand Pies, my heart fills with warmth and nostalgia. I can still remember the first time I made them for my kids when they were little. The smell of roasted chicken mixed with buttery pie crust wafted through our rustic kitchen, bringing everyone together like a big, warm hug. These delightful little pies are not just a meal; they are a memory—each bite is packed with love and comfort. Whenever I pull these out of the oven, I see the smiles on my family’s faces and hear the delightful “yum” that escapes their lips. I have a feeling that once you try making them, you’ll feel the same joy and warmth I do. So let’s get started, shall we?
How to Make Creamy Chicken Hand Pies
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful hand pies. Each ingredient plays a key role in crafting that rich, creamy filling that I adore.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 2 cups |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 cup |
| Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) | 1 cup |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Refrigerated pie crusts | 1 package (2 crusts) |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 |
Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing!
Cooking Steps
Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive right into the steps for making these delicious hand pies. I promise it’s easy, and soon enough, you’ll have a warm batch waiting for you.
1. Preheat the Oven
First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this is key for that perfect golden-brown crust!
2. Mixing the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, and spices. This is where the magic begins! Don’t forget to mix until everything is well combined. You want that creamy texture to wrap around every bite of chicken.
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3. Roll Out the Pie Crust
Next, roll out one of the pie crusts on a floured surface. Using a round cutter (or even the rim of a glass will work), cut out circles about 5-6 inches in diameter.
4. Add the Filling
Take 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and spoon it onto half of each circle. Be generous with the filling—it’s what makes these hand pies so delightful!
5. Fold It Over
Now, fold the other half of the circle over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges well to seal them tightly. This is important; you don’t want any of that creamy goodness to escape while baking!
6. Crimp the Edges
Use a fork to crimp the edges and give them that classic hand pie look. Plus, it helps to seal them even more, which is just what you need!
7. Prepare for Baking
Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help with easy cleanup, trust me!
8. Egg Wash
Beat the egg and brush it over the top of each hand pie. This will give them that beautiful golden finish that makes them so appetizing!
9. Bake them to Perfection
Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”
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10. Cool and Serve
Once they are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. I know it’s hard to resist diving right in, but a few minutes will keep you from burning your tongue!
Why I Love Making This Dish
For me, making Creamy Chicken Hand Pies is a way to bring everyone together. I often find myself reminiscing about family gatherings where we all sat around the table, filled with laughter and joy. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a way for me to share those warm memories with my loved ones. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and freeze, so I can always have a batch ready for unexpected guests or days when I want something quick.
What You’ll Need
To make this delightful recipe, you don’t need any fancy gadgets, just some basic kitchen tools like a mixing bowl, a rolling pin, and a baking sheet. A fork is also super handy for crimping those edges.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Chicken Choices: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken if you want to save time!
- Crispier Crust: If you want your crust to be extra crispy, try baking them on a preheated baking sheet.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t shy away from adding more spices or fresh herbs to the filling. A pinch of paprika can add a lovely touch!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
These hand pies are wonderful on their own but pair beautifully with a crisp side salad or some tangy pickles. I also love serving a bit of gravy or ranch dressing on the side for dipping. It adds a delicious touch that will have your taste buds dancing!
Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until they’re heated through again. A microwave works too, but I find the oven keeps the crust crispy!
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken?
You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and bone-in is always juicier!
Are these pies freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze them either before or after baking. Just make sure they are in an airtight container or wrapped tightly.
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Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cook them slightly so they’re tender before adding them to the filling.
Conclusion
I can’t express how much these Creamy Chicken Hand Pies have become a favorite in my home. Each time I prepare them, I watch my family dig in with smiles on their faces, and I know I’m feeding their souls, not just their stomachs. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! And if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!