Every time I make these Easy Mini Chicken Pot Pies, I can’t help but think of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. The rich aroma of chicken, herbs, and vegetables bubbling in a cozy oven would fill the air, drawing everyone to the table with anticipation. My grandmother had a way of making simple ingredients feel like a six-course meal. I remember my young self standing on a stool beside her, mesmerized by how she turned everyday food into something magical.
Now, as a woman in my 50s living in rural America, I find joy in recreating those same heartfelt moments in my kitchen. I know that when you make these little pot pies for your family, you’ll feel that warmth, too. Each flaky crust and creamy filling tells a story—a story of love, comfort, and togetherness. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get started; I promise you, once you finish, you’ll be smiling just as wide as I do!
How to Make Easy Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 1 lb, shredded |
| Mixed vegetables | 1 cup (peas, carrots, corn) |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Refrigerated pie crusts | 1 package |
| Egg (for egg wash) | 1 |
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing! Feel free to get creative with your veggie choices; it’s a great way to use up leftovers, too.
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the Oven
First, we need to preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this is key for getting that perfect golden-brown crust.
2. Prepare Your Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Now, don’t be shy—give it a good stir! Make sure everything is well mixed. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. When I prepare this filling, I love closing my eyes for a moment to enjoy that beautiful blend of flavors.
3. Roll Out the Crust
Take your refrigerated pie crusts out of the fridge and let them sit for a few minutes. This makes them easier to work with. Roll out the crusts gently on a floured surface.
4. Cut the Crusts
Using a round cutter—something around 4 inches in diameter—cut out circles from the dough. You’ll need two circles for each pot pie: one for the bottom and one for the top.
5. Assemble the Pot Pies
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Place the first circle of dough into a greased muffin tin cup, ensuring it fits snugly. Spoon your delicious chicken filling into each cup and then place the second circle on top. If you want, you can pinch the edges to seal them or use a fork for a decorative touch.
6. Vent the Tops
Cut small slits in the top layer of dough to allow steam to escape while baking. This key step prevents your pot pies from exploding in the oven.
7. Brush with Egg
Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each pie. This causes that beautiful golden color you see in the bakery.
8. Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make your heart sing!
9. Cool Before Serving
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. I know it’s hard to resist eating them right away, but believe me—those little pockets of goodness will be much easier to handle once they’ve set for a bit.
Why I Love Making This Dish
For me, making Easy Mini Chicken Pot Pies is not just about feeding my family; it’s about creating memories and keeping traditions alive. There’s a certain comfort in the way these pot pies come together—a reminder of those Sunday dinners with loved ones. The sight of the little golden crusts brings a smile not only to my face but also to my family’s. I adore hearing them rave about how delicious they are!
What You’ll Need
You’ll want to have a muffin tin on hand—this is the secret to those adorable mini pies! You’ll also need a mixing bowl, a rolling pin, and a sharp knife for cutting. Don’t forget your measuring cups, as they’re vital for getting the proportions just right.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Mix the filling ingredients together in a large bowl, and trust me on the seasoning—it makes all the difference!
- Cut out your dough circles.
- Assemble the mini pot pies and ensure to vent the tops.
- Brush with egg wash for that beautiful color.
- Bake until golden and enjoy the wonderful aroma!
Tips for Perfect Results
For a crispier crust, bake them a little longer, keeping an eye on the color. If your family loves a bit more of that savory flavor, don’t hesitate to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the filling—it enhances the taste wonderfully!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
These pot pies are perfect on their own, but if you want to jazz up your meal, serve them alongside a simple green salad or some buttery mashed potatoes. A drizzle of gravy on top never hurts either!
Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (but let’s be real, that’s rarely the case), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. The crust may lose some initial crispiness, but it still tastes fantastic!
FAQ Section
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! In fact, I often do when I’m in a pinch. It adds a delicious flavor, and it saves time!
What other veggies can I add?
You can get creative here. Potatoes, green beans, or even spinach make great additions. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Can I freeze these pot pies?
You sure can! Just assemble them without baking, cover tightly, and freeze. When you’re ready for them, bake from frozen, adding a bit more time to the cooking process.
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!
Conclusion
This Easy Mini Chicken Pot Pies recipe holds a special place in my heart, and it has a tendency to weave itself into our family traditions. I can’t express how excited I am for you to try this dish in your own kitchen. There’s something about flaky crusts and warm filling that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I just know your family will be asking for seconds, just like mine does! Let me know how it turns out; I can’t wait to hear all about your family’s smiles over these little treasures!