Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that’s hearty and satisfying. This beginner-friendly recipe is easy to follow and yields a delicious homemade pie with a flaky crust and creamy filling. Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect chicken pot pie from scratch:

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Boneless and skinless, cooked and diced
• 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• 1 medium Onion: Diced
• 2 medium Carrots: Peeled and diced
• 2 stalks Celery: Diced
• 3 cloves Garlic: Minced
• 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 cup Milk: Whole or 2%
• 1 cup Frozen Peas
• 1 cup Frozen Corn
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1 tsp Dried Parsley
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

For the Crust:

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Unsalted Butter: Cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup Ice Water

Equipment:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk and Spatula
• Rolling Pin
• 9-inch Pie Dish
• Pastry Cutter or Food Processor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Cook the chicken breasts or thighs in a skillet over medium heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Let cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or food processor, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together. It should be moist but not sticky.
   • Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
   • Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Stir in the diced chicken, frozen peas, frozen corn, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, about 1/8-inch thick. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides.
   • Pour the chicken filling into the pie crust.
   • Roll out the second disc of dough for the top crust, about 1/8-inch thick. Place it over the filling. Trim the excess dough, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Fold the overhang under itself and crimp the edges to seal.
   • Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake the Pie:
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
   • If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set.

Tips for Success:

• Cold Ingredients for the Crust: Ensure the butter and water are very cold to achieve a flaky texture.
• Homemade or Store-Bought: If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pie crusts.
• Thickening the Filling: Make sure the filling thickens properly to avoid a runny pie.

Variations:

• Vegetable Pot Pie: Substitute the chicken with more vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and green beans for a vegetarian version.
• Turkey Pot Pie: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken, perfect for after Thanksgiving.
• Cheese Topping: Add shredded cheese to the top crust before baking for a cheesy twist.

This beginner-friendly chicken pot pie recipe is perfect for any occasion, providing a warm and comforting meal that’s sure to satisfy. Enjoy the homemade goodness with every bite!