Every time I make this Easy Chicken Pot Pie, it brings me right back to my childhood, sitting around the dinner table with family. Those were moments filled with laughter, warm hugs, and the mouth-watering aroma of homemade comfort food wafting through the air. You know that feeling when you take a bite of something, and it feels like a hug from the inside? Yes, that’s what this chicken pot pie does for me!
It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory, a tradition that brings my loved ones together. I remember watching my grandma create this dish, her hands working deftly with the pie crust and filling as she would share stories of her own childhood. Now, I pass down this cherished recipe to you, hoping it will become a staple in your home, too. Just imagine your family gathering around, enjoying slice after slice of this delicious pot pie, while sharing their own stories. I can already hear the “oohs” and “aahs” coming from your kitchen!
How to Make Easy Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Cooked Chicken | 1 lb, chopped |
Carrots | 1 cup, diced |
Peas | 1 cup |
Celery | 1 cup, diced |
Butter | 1/3 cup |
All-purpose Flour | 1/3 cup |
Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
Chicken Broth | 1 3/4 cups |
Milk | 2/3 cup |
Pre-made Pie Crusts | 2 |
Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing! You might want to try that too!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated! Trust me, this is key for that crispy crust you’re dreaming about! Set it to 425°F (220°C).
2. Melt the Butter
Grab a saucepan and melt 1/3 cup of butter over medium heat. As the butter melts, its rich smell fills the kitchen, making your heart soar and your mouth water.
3. Cook the Vegetables
Now, add the diced carrots and celery to the melted butter. Cook them until they are softened, which will take about 3-4 minutes. I like to stir them occasionally; it gives me a moment to breathe in that buttery goodness.
4. Add Flour, Salt, and Pepper
Once your veggies are tender, sprinkle in 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir it all together for about 1 minute. This helps to create a rich base for your pot pie filling.
5. Stir in Chicken Broth and Milk
Now, slowly pour in 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth and 2/3 cup of milk. Stir until everything is well mixed. Cook it over medium heat until the mixture thickens—this will take about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will be so comforting; your family won’t be able to resist!
6. Mix in Chicken and Peas
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently fold in your chopped chicken and 1 cup of peas. This colorful mix is not only tasty but also looks beautiful!
7. Prepare the Pie Crust
Take one of your pre-made pie crusts and lay it in a 9-inch pie dish. Press it down gently, and don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect—trust me, it will taste amazing!
8. Pour Filling into the Crust
Now, pour your creamy chicken mixture into the pie crust. Spread it out evenly. You’ll want to lick the spoon, but save it for later!
9. Cover with Second Crust
Place the second pie crust over the top. Seal the edges by pressing them together gently. Then make a few slits on top for the steam to escape. This part is fun!
10. Bake It
Bake your pot pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on it; it’s hard to resist the smell!
11. Let It Cool
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps all those flavors come together, and it gives you a moment to gather everyone at the table!
Why I Love Making This Dish
I adore this dish not only for its delightful taste but also for the love and memories it brings to my family dinners. It’s a dish that requires minimal fuss but yields maximum comfort. You see, every time I make this chicken pot pie, it feels like I’m connecting generations; it’s like I’m sharing a piece of my heart. I often find myself thinking about those who came before me, who also made this dish.
What You’ll Need
To make this easy chicken pot pie, all you need are some standard kitchen tools: a saucepan, measuring cups, a mixing spoon, and your favorite 9-inch pie dish. It doesn’t take special equipment to create magic in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Melt the butter in a saucepan.
- Cook the vegetables until soft.
- Mix in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken broth and milk to thicken.
- Stir in the chicken and peas.
- Lay the first pie crust in the dish.
- Pour in your filling.
- Cover with the second crust.
- Bake until golden brown.
- Let it cool before serving.
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve that perfectly crispy crust, make sure to preheat the oven thoroughly. I find that using cold pie crusts helps keep the texture fluffy. And don’t skip those steam slits! It allows steam to escape, ensuring the filling doesn’t overflow.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This chicken pot pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp garden salad. The freshness of the greens cuts through the richness of the pie, creating a balanced meal. You might also enjoy it with roasted vegetables or a simple fruit salad. For a cozy evening, consider serving it with warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra gravy.
Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Store any uneaten pie in an airtight container. Simply reheat in the oven at about 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You’ll find that the flavors deepen even more, creating a comforting meal that doesn’t take much effort!
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!
What can I use instead of chicken?
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms and mixed vegetables. It works beautifully!
Can I freeze the pie?
Absolutely! Just assemble the pie and freeze it before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from the freezer, adding a bit of time.
What if I don’t have fresh vegetables?
No problem! You can use frozen vegetables—they work just as well and save some time!
Conclusion
This Easy Chicken Pot Pie has become a loved recipe in my house, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Not only is it comforting and satisfying, but it also brings people together. I know your family will love it just as much as mine does! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create not just a meal, but a heartwarming memory. Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time!