Description
Classic Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1/2 cup diced celery
1/3 cup unsalted butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 sheet puff pastry (or pie crust)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Make the Filling:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, onion powder, and garlic powder. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually add chicken broth and milk, whisking until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
Stir in the cooked chicken, peas and carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, then remove from heat.
Assemble the Pie:
Pour the filling into a pie dish or skillet. Lay the puff pastry (or pie crust) over the top, trimming any excess. Press the edges to seal and make a few small slits in the center to release steam.
Brush with Egg Wash:
Brush the beaten egg over the crust for a golden, glossy finish.
Bake:
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof pot pie. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded. While the oven preheats to 400°F (200°C), begin your roux: melt butter in a skillet, then whisk in flour and spices until it forms a paste. Slowly stream in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens to a gravy consistency, fold in the chicken and vegetables. Transfer this filling to your baking dish. Unfold the thawed puff pastry and drape it over the dish, pressing the edges to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut 3-4 small slits in the center. Finally, brush the crust evenly with the beaten egg wash for optimal browning.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pot pie is a complete meal on its own. For a classic comfort food plate, serve a warm slice alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also pairs wonderfully with roasted Brussels sprouts or garlicky sautéed green beans. For a special touch, add a dollop of creamy mashed potatoes or cranberry sauce on the side.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook chicken, make a roux with butter, flour, and spices, whisk in broth and milk to create a sauce, mix in veggies and chicken, top with pastry, brush with egg wash, and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until golden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the filling and let it cool completely before topping with crust. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Diced turkey, ham, or even hearty mushrooms make excellent substitutes for the chicken.
My filling is too runny. How can I fix it? Simmer the sauce longer before adding the chicken and veggies to thicken it. You can also create a slurry with 1 tbsp of cornstarch and 2 tbsp of cold water, then stir it into the simmering filling.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen peas and carrots are perfect. Add them directly from the freezer; there’s no need to thaw, as they will cook in the filling.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to restore the crust’s crispness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: 1) Not cooking the roux long enough, which can leave a raw flour taste—whisk for a full 1-2 minutes. 2) Adding liquids too quickly to the roux, which causes lumps. Pour in a slow, steady stream while whisking. 3) Forgetting to vent the crust; the slits are crucial to let steam escape and prevent a soggy top. 4) Skipping the egg wash, which gives the crust its signature golden shine.
Conclusion
This classic chicken pot pie recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food experience with its creamy filling and flaky, golden crust. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that will become a cherished family favorite. Its versatility and make-ahead potential make it a reliable star for any dinner table.