Chicken pot pie is more than just a dish; it's a warm hug in a bowl. This classic comfort food combines a rich, creamy filling with a perfectly flaky crust, making it a favorite at our home. If you're craving the heartiness of this meal without spending hours in the kitchen, you’ve landed at the right spot. Let's dive into a simple chicken pot pie recipe that balances flavor and speed, all while keeping your kitchen stress-free.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

This chicken pot pie becomes an instant favorite for many reasons:

• Accessibility: Using common pantry staples means you won't need to make a special trip to the store. Ingredients like shredded chicken, frozen veggies, and cream of chicken soup are easy to find and budget-friendly.

• Time-saving: Preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but quick.

  
  

• Customizable: Whether you have specific dietary preferences or favorite flavors, this recipe is flexible enough to adapt. You can easily tweak ingredients and adjust seasoning to suit your taste.

  
  

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these essential ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

• 1/3 cup (71g) butter

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 bag of frozen peas and carrots (125g)

• 1/2 onion chopped

• 1/3 cup flour

• 1 3/4 cups (420 ml) chicken broth

• 2/3 cup (160ml) half and half

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

• 1/2 teaspoongrtound black pepper

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade if you’re up for it)

• 1 egg beaten with 1 Tablespoon of milk (for egg wash, optional)

  
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step ensures that your crust will come out perfectly golden and crisp.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a large frying pan or cast iron skillet on medium high heat, sauté your onions, once translucent, add in your minced garlic, dropping your heat to medium low, add your butter, when it is melted, toss in your flour stirring for a few minutes to let the flour cook. Next, pour in your chicken broth whisk until smooth, then add in your half and half. Now add in your cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, and seasonings, Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture is not only hearty but packed with essential nutrients, making it a balanced meal.

3. Assemble the Pie

Pour the chicken filling into your pie dish. (I only use one pie crust on top, but you can use a bottom crust and a top crust) Roll out your pie crust and place it on top of the filling. Crimp the edges to seal the pie, and make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Finally, brush the crust with your egg wash for a beautiful shine.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the pie in your preheated oven at 375 degrees if using two crusts bake at 425 degrees) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Watch closely; if the edges brown too fast, cover them with foil. When done, you’ll see a golden crust that promises deliciousness.

5. Let It Cool

After baking, take the pie out and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. Letting it cool a bit helps the filling set, making it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken pot pie warm for the best flavor. Pair it with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to round out your meal. For an additional touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to elevate the dish's presentation and flavor.

Customization Options

One of the best parts about this chicken pot pie is how easy it is to make it your own. Try these substitutions:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or diced potatoes for a filling vegetarian version. Use a vegetable-based cream soup to maintain creaminess.

  
  

• Add Heat: For those who like some spice, mix in a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the filling. This small addition can add a flavorful kick.

  
  

• Different Proteins: Want variety? Swap out the chicken for turkey, shredded beef, or even shrimp based on your preferences.

  
  

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store your chicken pot pie in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If you want to prepare early, assemble the pie but leave it uncooked. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

Final Thoughts

Creating a quick and easy chicken pot pie can be a delightful experience. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can put together a meal that comforts and satisfies everyone. I love this recipe because these are ingredients i usually have on hand making a quick and east dinner to pull together. The rich filling combined with a flaky crust makes this dish perfect for any occasion. Gather your supplies, follow the steps, and enjoy the journey to creating your next family favorite!