How to Make an Easy Chicken Pot Pie from Scratch: A Comforting Family Favorite
Few dishes are as heartwarming and comforting as a homemade chicken pot pie. The savory aroma of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a golden, flaky crust is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and contentment. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home or sharing it with loved ones, this easy chicken pot pie recipe from scratch is bound to become a household favorite. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an easy chicken pot pie that is simple to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
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Why Make Chicken Pot Pie from Scratch?
You may wonder why it’s worth the extra effort to make chicken pot pie from scratch instead of grabbing a pre-made version from the store. While store-bought options can be convenient, nothing beats the freshness and quality of a homemade pie. Here’s why you should give this recipe a try:
1. The Joy of Homemade Cooking
There’s a special kind of satisfaction that comes from preparing a meal entirely from scratch. The flavors are richer, the textures are better, and you have complete control over what goes into the dish. Making your own chicken pot pie ensures that every ingredient is fresh and tailored to your taste.
2. Healthier Ingredients
When you make chicken pot pie from scratch, you can avoid the preservatives, artificial flavors, and excess sodium often found in store-bought options. Using fresh ingredients means your dish will be healthier and free of unwanted additives.
3. Customization to Suit Your Taste
Making chicken pot pie at home allows you to personalize the recipe according to your preferences. Whether you prefer extra vegetables, a richer sauce, or a gluten-free crust, you have the flexibility to create a dish that’s perfect for your taste buds.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Pot Pie
Before you get started, gather the following ingredients. They’re easy to find and will ensure that your chicken pot pie is flavorful and satisfying.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (shredded) | 2 cups | You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. |
| Frozen mixed vegetables | 1 ½ cups | A combination of peas, carrots, and corn works well. |
| Onion (diced) | 1 small | Adds savory flavor to the filling. |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Enhances the savory depth of the dish. |
| Butter | 3 tbsp | Essential for creating the creamy sauce. |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | Helps thicken the sauce. |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | Forms the base of the filling. |
| Milk | 1 cup | Creates a creamy texture in the filling. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season to your preference. |
| Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) | 1 package | You can make your own or use a store-bought option for convenience. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Easy Chicken Pot Pie from Scratch
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your own chicken pot pie from scratch.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by cooking your chicken if it’s not already cooked. You can boil or roast chicken breasts, then shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, is a great time-saving option.
For the vegetables, you can use a frozen mix of peas, carrots, and corn, or chop fresh veggies to your liking. Ensure they are small and easy to mix into the pie filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them until softened and fragrant, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes. - Make the Roux
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to form a paste. This mixture is called a roux and will help thicken your filling. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes, but make sure it doesn’t burn. - Add Liquids
Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. This step is key to ensuring your filling is rich and flavorful. - Add Chicken and Vegetables
Stir in the shredded chicken and the frozen (or fresh) vegetables. Mix everything together, ensuring that the chicken and veggies are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out the bottom pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough gently against the edges, trimming any excess crust. If you’re using store-bought dough, you can simply unfold and press it into the dish. - Add the Filling
Pour the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture into the pie dish, spreading it evenly. - Top with the Second Crust
Roll out the second pie crust and lay it over the filling. Pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal them. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). - Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust turns a golden-brown color. You should see the filling bubbling through the slits in the crust. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning. - Cool and Serve
Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and make it easier to slice.
Tips for the Best Chicken Pot Pie
To ensure your chicken pot pie turns out perfect every time, here are some handy tips and tricks:
1. Make Ahead and Freezing Tips
If you’re short on time, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can also freeze the entire pie before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer. To bake from frozen, simply place it in a preheated oven at 425°F for 50-60 minutes.
2. Get Creative with Vegetables
While the classic mix of peas, carrots, and corn is delicious, feel free to get creative with your vegetables. Potatoes, broccoli, and mushrooms are excellent additions that add variety and flavor to the filling.
3. Customize the Crust
If you prefer a different crust, you can make a buttery puff pastry topping instead of the traditional pie crust. Or, for a lighter version, try using a biscuit topping that’s fluffy and golden.
4. Ensure a Crispy Bottom Crust
To avoid a soggy bottom crust, consider pre-baking the crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier that keeps the crust crisp.
Why This Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe is Perfect for Families
Chicken pot pie is not only a comforting dish, but it’s also incredibly family-friendly. Here’s why it’s a great meal choice for your household:
1. Kid-Friendly
The creamy filling and flaky crust make this dish incredibly appealing to children. Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild flavors and tender ingredients.
2. Great for Leftovers
One of the best things about chicken pot pie is that it makes fantastic leftovers. You can store any leftover pie in the fridge for up to three days and easily reheat it for a quick and satisfying meal.
3. Fun to Make Together
Making chicken pot pie is a great way to get the whole family involved in the kitchen. Kids can help with rolling out the dough, filling the pie, or even sprinkling the top with salt before baking. It’s an excellent bonding activity that ends with a delicious dinner.
FAQ: Your Questions About Easy Chicken Pot Pie Answered
1. Can I make chicken pot pie without pie crust?
Yes! You can use mashed potatoes, puff pastry, or even biscuits as a topping instead of a traditional pie crust.
2. How do I know when my chicken pot pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If you insert a thermometer into the center of the pie, the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
3. Can I use store-bought filling?
If you’re in a rush, you can use store-bought chicken pot pie filling. However, making it from scratch will give you a fresher, more customizable taste.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken pot pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Comfort of Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Making chicken pot pie from scratch may seem like a lot of work, but with this easy recipe, you’ll find that it’s totally worth the effort. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flaky crust makes for a dish that’s not only delicious but also full of memories. Whether you’re feeding your family or preparing a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe will soon become a beloved favorite in your home.
Don’t forget to try different variations to make the recipe your own—experiment with different vegetables, crusts, and seasonings to create the ultimate chicken pot pie. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start cooking! Your perfect chicken pot pie is just a few steps away.