Chicken Pot Pie: The Ultimate Comfort Food Explosion

Chicken pot pie holds a special place in my heart, evoking memories of cozy family dinners and the warm aroma wafting through the kitchen. This dish, with its golden crust and creamy filling, symbolizes comfort and togetherness at the dinner table. Every bite takes me back to moments shared with loved ones, around a table filled with laughter and stories.

As a home cook, I find immense joy in crafting dishes that bring people together, and chicken pot pie is one of those timeless recipes. The flaky crust paired with the savory, creamy filling makes it an irresistible classic. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a regular weeknight, this dish has a way of transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.

Creating a chicken pot pie from scratch might seem daunting, but it’s a rewarding process that’s easier than you think. With a little patience and love, you can create a dish that delights both the eyes and the taste buds. Let’s explore how to create this comforting masterpiece, diving into the techniques and tips that make it truly special.

Chicken Pot Pie

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 1 pie (8 servings) 1x

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Description

Learn how to make a delicious Chicken Pot Pie from scratch with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect comfort food for any occasion!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 recipe Homemade pie dough, chilled (our recipes makes 2 crusts, needed for this recipe; one for the top, and one for the bottom)
• 1 pound (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (75 ml)
• 1/2 cup celery, sliced (50 g)
• 1/3 cup onion, chopped (45 g)
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (40 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2.5 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (0.5 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (0.5 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (1.5 g)
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon paste, or more to taste (or substitute 1 bouillon cube) (5 g)
• 1 cup milk (240 ml)
• 8 ounces frozen beef-friendly veggies (mix of carrots, peas, green beans, and corn) (225 g)
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (15 ml)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Sprinkle salt and pepper on the chicken. Place the chicken in a big pot, add water to cover, and bring it to a gentle boil. Cook until the chicken is just cooked through, then take it out and let it cool slightly before cutting into small pieces. Keep about 1¾ cups of the chicken water, discarding the remainder.
2. Create the Pot Pie Mixture: In the same pot, sauté onions and celery in vegetable oil until they’re soft. Add flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, bouillon paste, and celery seed, stirring well. Gradually incorporate the reserved chicken water and milk, letting it simmer on medium-low heat until it thickens.
3. Incorporate the chopped chicken and frozen vegetables. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, bouillon, or garlic powder as needed. Let the mixture cool down so it’s not hot when it goes into the pie crust.
4. Set the oven to 425°F for preheating.
5. Prepare the Bottom Crust: Take one portion of pie dough from the fridge, dust the counter lightly with flour, and roll the dough into a circle about 12 inches wide. Line a 9-inch pie dish with the dough.
6. Assemble the Pot Pie: Pour the cooled filling into the crust-lined pie dish. Roll out the second dough and lay it over the filling. Seal the edges of both crusts and crimp if you like. Make a small slit in the top crust to let steam escape using a sharp knife.
7. Apply Egg Wash: Beat 1 egg with a tablespoon of vegetable oil and lightly brush this mixture over the top crust.
8. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the crust browns too fast, cover it with foil.
9. Let the chicken pot pie sit for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow it to settle.

Notes

• Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a more tender and flavorful filling. Add in additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more aromatic dish. Substitute half of the milk with heavy cream for a richer filling.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: chicken pot pie, homemade dough, creamy filling, golden crust, savory chicken, hearty dinner

Crafting the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

Fundamentals

To make the perfect chicken pot pie, understanding the fundamentals is key. The heart of this dish lies in its filling, a harmonious blend of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce. The homemade pie dough acts as the canvas, enveloping the filling in a golden embrace.

Start by preparing the chicken. Sprinkle it with salt and pepper, then gently boil until cooked through. This process not only cooks the chicken but also creates a flavorful broth to enhance the filling. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ready to be enveloped in the creamy sauce.

Preparation/Setup

In the same pot, sauté onions and celery in vegetable oil until they soften and release their aroma. This forms the base of your sauce, infusing it with flavor. Add flour to the pot, stirring to create a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Incorporate garlic powder, celery seed, and chicken bouillon paste, enhancing the depth of flavor.

Gradually add the reserved chicken water and milk, allowing the sauce to simmer until it thickens. The key here is patience; let the sauce gently bubble to achieve the perfect consistency. Once thickened, fold in the chopped chicken and frozen vegetables, creating a colorful, hearty filling.

Mastering the Chicken Pot Pie Technique

Technique

Rolling out the pie dough requires a gentle touch. Dust your counter lightly with flour to prevent sticking, and roll the dough into a circle about 12 inches wide. Carefully line your pie dish with the dough, allowing it to hang over the edges slightly. This forms the base that will hold the delicious filling.

Once the filling is cooled, pour it into the crust-lined pie dish. Roll out the second portion of dough and lay it over the filling, sealing the edges by crimping them together. This step is crucial to ensure the filling stays inside while baking, creating a neat, professional look.

Tips/Tricks

To achieve a beautifully golden crust, apply an egg wash before baking. Beat an egg with a tablespoon of vegetable oil, and brush this mixture over the top crust. This not only enhances the appearance but also adds a subtle sheen.

If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil. This simple trick ensures the crust remains golden without overcooking. Allow the pie to sit for 15-20 minutes after baking; this resting period helps the filling settle, making it easier to slice and serve.

Perfecting Your Chicken Pot Pie

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect chicken pot pie involves attention to detail at every step. From the crust to the filling, each element plays a role in creating a harmonious dish. Ensure your dough is chilled before rolling; this prevents it from becoming too soft and difficult to handle.

Taste your filling before assembling the pie. Adjust the seasoning with extra chicken bouillon paste, garlic powder, or salt and pepper to suit your preference. This customization is what makes homemade cooking so rewarding, allowing you to tailor flavors to your liking.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your filling is too runny, increase the simmering time, allowing it to thicken further. On the other hand, if it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or reserved chicken water to reach the desired consistency.

For a twist, experiment with different vegetables. Swap out the frozen mix for fresh seasonal produce, or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic boost. These variations keep the dish exciting and adaptable to personal tastes.

Serving and Storing Chicken Pot Pie

Serving/Presentation

Once your chicken pot pie is ready, presentation is key. Allow it to rest before slicing, ensuring clean, neat pieces. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal that both satisfies and delights.

The crust, golden and crisp, provides a delightful contrast to the creamy filling. As you cut into the pie, the aroma of the savory filling is released, inviting everyone to the table for a comforting meal.

Pairings/Storage

Pair your chicken pot pie with a refreshing iced tea or a sparkling lemon drink to complement the rich flavors. For storage, wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate. The pie can be enjoyed for up to three days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

If you need more creative comfort food ideas, explore these Creamy Crock Pot Chicken Pierogi Stew or the delightful Crispy Potato Chicken Balls Recipe. For a delicious one-pot meal, try the One-Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe. These dishes offer a variety of flavors and simplicity, perfect companions to your chicken pot pie.

Conclusion

Chicken pot pie is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the table. By mastering the basics and incorporating personal touches, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Its versatility allows for endless creativity, ensuring it remains a family favorite.

The process of making chicken pot pie from scratch is a rewarding journey, one that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece. Its rich flavors and inviting aroma make it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Embrace the art of home cooking, and let this timeless recipe become a staple in your kitchen.

For more inspiration, check out this classic Chicken Pot Pie or try the flavorful Sous Vide Chicken Breasts. Each dish offers a unique take on chicken, allowing you to explore a world of culinary possibilities.

FAQs – Chicken Pot Pie