Imagine a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening, where the aroma of chicken pot pie wafts through the air like a warm hug from an old friend. You might think that creating this comforting dish is a daunting task, but it's not as complex as it seems. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can transform leftovers into a meal that brings everyone together. So, what's the secret to achieving that perfect flaky crust and creamy filling? Let's explore the essential steps that will elevate your chicken pot pie to new heights.
Key Takeaways
- Start by boiling 1 lb of chicken and sautéing 2 cups each of diced carrots and celery with 1 cup of diced onions in butter.
- Prepare a roux by combining 4 tablespoons of flour with chicken broth and half-and-half, then mix in the cooked chicken and vegetables.
- Make or roll out pie crust into 12-inch circles, placing one in the pie dish before adding the filling.
- Cover with a second pie crust, seal edges, and create slits for steam, then brush with an egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, allowing the pie to rest before serving.
History

Chicken pot pie's history reveals a fascinating journey through time, as its roots trace back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations where meat and vegetables were tucked into pastry to preserve them.
By the 19th century, settlers in America embraced this dish, adapting traditional recipes with local ingredients. The modern version gained popularity during World War II, becoming a staple comfort food for soldiers due to its hearty nature.
Home cooks showcased resourcefulness by using leftovers, minimizing waste while creating something delicious.
Today, chicken pot pie stands out in American cuisine for its versatility, with countless variations influenced by regional and cultural tastes. This dish not only warms the heart but also reflects a rich culinary heritage.
Recipe

Chicken pot pie is a comforting classic that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pie crust. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home, and it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. With a few simple steps, you can create a delicious pot pie that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
To start, gather your ingredients and prepare your kitchen for cooking. The process involves boiling the chicken and sautéing the vegetables before combining everything to create a creamy filling. Once the filling is ready, it's encased in a buttery pie crust and baked to golden perfection. Whether you opt for a homemade crust or a convenient store-bought option, this chicken pot pie is sure to be a hit at your dining table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb uncooked boneless, skinless chicken
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 2 cups diced celery
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 homemade or store-bought pie crust
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Begin by boiling the chicken in a pot of water until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Add the carrots and celery, cooking until tender.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine, creating a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth and half-and-half, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it and add it to the skillet, mixing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 12-inch pie dish, adding the filling on top. Cover with another layer of crust, sealing the edges, and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake at 425°F for 30-38 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary to the filling.
If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut for the meat.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like peas or potatoes, or adjust the creaminess by using more or less half-and-half.
If you're making this dish in advance, you can assemble it and freeze it before baking; just increase the baking time when you're ready to serve.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken pot pie!
Cooking Steps

Let's get started with the cooking steps for your chicken pot pie.
First, you'll prepare the pie crust and the chicken filling, ensuring everything's fresh and flavorful.
Then, you'll add the vegetables and season the mixture before baking it to golden perfection.
Step 1. Prepare the Pie Crust

To prepare the pie crust, start by combining flour, salt, butter, and shortening in a bowl.
Use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together without being sticky.
Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to 5 days.
After chilling, roll out one disc on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle for the bottom crust, and do the same for the top crust.
Transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish, trim any excess, and prepare to add your filling and seal the edges.
Step 2. Prepare the Chicken Filling

With the pie crust prepared, you can now focus on the chicken filling. Start by boiling uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs along with chopped carrots and celery in salted water for about 10 minutes until the chicken's cooked through.
After boiling, drain the chicken and vegetables, letting them cool slightly before chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring to combine, then gradually whisk in reduced sodium chicken broth and half-and-half, simmering until the sauce thickens to a gravy-like consistency.
Finally, mix in the chopped chicken and vegetables, seasoning to taste before assembling your pot pie.
Step 3. Add Vegetables to Filling

As you prepare to add vegetables to the chicken filling, consider sautéing some onions and garlic in butter first to create a flavorful base. This savory base enhances the overall taste of your chicken pot pie.
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, and diced potatoes. These not only boost flavor but also provide essential nutrients and a satisfying texture contrast.
If you're short on time, frozen mixed vegetables are a convenient alternative. Just ensure that all added vegetables are cooked appropriately before mixing them into the filling. This step ensures they retain their flavor and texture when baked, resulting in a delicious and hearty chicken pot pie. Additionally, incorporating herbal teas with your meal can further enhance relaxation and well-being during dinner.
Step 4. Season the Filling Mixture

Once you've combined the chicken and vegetables, it's crucial to season the filling mixture to enhance its flavors.
Start by adding salt and pepper, adjusting to taste as needed. For an aromatic touch, incorporate fresh thyme or, if you prefer, dried thyme at half the amount, mixing it well with the sautéed onions.
To deepen the flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or onion powder. A sprinkle of celery seed will perfectly complement the dish and highlight the vegetables' natural sweetness.
Before assembling the pie, be sure to taste the mixture. This step ensures the seasoning balance is just right, leading to a delicious final dish that everyone will love.
Step 5. Bake Until Golden Brown

After preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C), it's time to bake the chicken pot pie.
Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 32–38 minutes. Keep an eye on it, monitoring closely until the crust turns golden brown and the filling bubbles through the slits.
To prevent over-browning, cover the edges with aluminum foil after the first 20 minutes of baking.
Once done, the crust should be flaky, and the filling piping hot.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time enhances the texture and prevents burns from the hot filling.
Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken pot pie!
Final Thoughts

While you might think of chicken pot pie as just a comforting dish, it truly embodies versatility and convenience. You can whip up a homemade chicken pot pie using tender chicken, a creamy chicken filling, and a flaky pie crust.
Don't hesitate to use frozen vegetables or a store-bought pie crust when you're short on time. This customizable recipe allows you to incorporate leftover turkey or even different meats and veggies, like mushrooms or potatoes.
The golden brown crust, enhanced with an egg wash, makes it visually appealing as well as delicious. Plus, any leftovers can be stored for up to five days or frozen for two to three months, making it the perfect meal for busy days. Enjoy!