Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that has been enjoyed for generations. Its origins can be traced back to medieval times, where it was known as a “coffin” pie, named for the rectangular shape of the pastry crust. Over the years, the recipe evolved and became a staple in American cuisine.
This Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie recipe is a modern take on the traditional dish, combining a flaky crust with a creamy and flavorful filling. It has been perfected over time to create a dish that is both delicious and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe for Chicken Pot Pie is the best ever!
- The ingredients needed include chicken, vegetables, and a homemade crust.
- Follow the step-by-step instructions for a perfect result.
- Tips and tricks for a perfect crust include using cold butter and chilling the dough.
- Customize the recipe to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
Ingredients needed for the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
To make the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/2 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 pie crusts
When selecting ingredients for this recipe, it’s important to choose high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Look for fresh vegetables that are firm and vibrant in color. If possible, use organic chicken for a more flavorful and tender filling. Additionally, opt for homemade pie crusts if you have the time and skill, as they will yield a flakier and more delicious crust.
Step-by-step instructions for making the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
1. Start by making the crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of salt. Cut in 1/2 cup of cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until they are tender. Stir in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll out one of the pie crusts and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the filling into the crust.
6. Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
7. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Tips and tricks for a perfect crust
A soggy crust can ruin an otherwise perfect chicken pot pie, so it’s important to take steps to prevent this from happening. Here are some tips for achieving a crisp and flaky crust:
– Blind bake the bottom crust: Before adding the filling, pre-bake the bottom crust for about 10 minutes. This will help create a barrier between the filling and the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy.
– Brush with egg wash: Before baking, brush the top crust with an egg wash made from beaten egg and a splash of water. This will give the crust a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish.
– Vent the pie: Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the filling from becoming too watery.
To make a flaky crust, it’s important to keep the butter cold and handle the dough as little as possible. The cold butter creates pockets of steam as it melts in the oven, resulting in a flaky texture. Additionally, avoid overworking the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. Mix the dough just until it comes together, and then refrigerate it before rolling it out.
How to make the filling for the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
The filling is what gives chicken pot pie its creamy and flavorful character. Here are some tips for making a delicious filling:
– Selecting the best chicken: Use cooked chicken that is tender and flavorful. You can use leftover roasted chicken or cook chicken specifically for this recipe. If using raw chicken, poach it in chicken broth until cooked through, then shred or dice it.
– Making a creamy filling: To achieve a creamy texture, whisk together flour and butter to create a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth and thickened. This mixture will become the base of your filling and will thicken further as it bakes.
How to customize the recipe to your liking
One of the great things about this Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie recipe is that it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some suggestions for adding vegetables:
– Peas: Add 1/2 cup of frozen peas to the filling for added sweetness and color.
– Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions, celery, and carrots for an earthy flavor.
– Bell peppers: Add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and a slightly sweet flavor.
– Spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves for added nutrients.
If you prefer a vegetarian version of this recipe, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables or substitute tofu or tempeh for the protein.
How to store and reheat the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
If you have leftovers, you can store the pot pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pot pie for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Serving suggestions for the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a hearty and satisfying dish on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with some delicious side dishes. Here are some suggestions:
– Mashed potatoes: Serve the pot pie with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination.
– Roasted vegetables: Roast some seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or butternut squash, and serve them alongside the pot pie.
– Green salad: Balance out the richness of the pot pie with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
To serve the pot pie, simply cut it into slices and transfer them to individual plates. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for added flavor and visual appeal.
Frequently asked questions about the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie
1. Can I freeze the pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pot pie before baking it. Assemble the pie as instructed but do not bake it. Instead, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and foil, and bake the pot pie directly from frozen. Increase the baking time by about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
2. Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought crust if you prefer. Look for a high-quality crust that is made with real butter for the best flavor. Follow the instructions on the package for blind baking and assembling the pie.
Why this is the Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie Recipe and what makes it unique
What sets this Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie recipe apart from others is its combination of a flaky crust and a creamy filling. The crust is made from scratch using simple ingredients, resulting in a buttery and tender pastry that perfectly complements the rich and flavorful filling. The filling is made with a roux base, which gives it a velvety texture and allows it to thicken as it bakes.
But what truly makes this recipe unique is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite vegetables or protein. Whether you’re a meat lover or a vegetarian, this recipe can be adapted to accommodate your dietary needs.
Don’t just take our word for it – here are some testimonials from satisfied readers:
– “I’ve tried many chicken pot pie recipes over the years, but this one is by far the best. The crust is flaky and buttery, and the filling is creamy and packed with flavor.” – Sarah
– “I made this recipe for a dinner party, and everyone raved about it. The combination of vegetables and chicken in a creamy sauce was absolutely delicious.” – John
– “I’m a vegetarian, so I substituted tofu for the chicken in this recipe, and it turned out amazing. The filling was so creamy and flavorful, and the crust was perfectly flaky.” – Emily
In conclusion, this Best-Ever Chicken Pot Pie recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
If you’re a fan of delicious comfort food like chicken pot pie, you might also be interested in learning about the health benefits of using an air fryer. Check out this informative article on “How Air Fryers Work and Their Effect on Health” to discover how this innovative cooking method can help you enjoy your favorite dishes with less oil and fewer calories. With the rise in popularity of air fryers, it’s definitely worth exploring the potential health benefits they offer. (source)
FAQs
What is a chicken pot pie?
A chicken pot pie is a savory pie filled with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked inside a flaky crust.
What makes this chicken pot pie recipe the best-ever?
The article claims that this recipe is the best-ever due to its combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked inside a homemade crust.
What ingredients are needed to make this chicken pot pie?
The recipe calls for ingredients such as chicken breast, frozen mixed vegetables, butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, and seasonings. The full list of ingredients and measurements can be found in the article.
How long does it take to make this chicken pot pie?
The recipe takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and cook, with an additional 15 minutes for cooling before serving.
Can this chicken pot pie be made ahead of time?
Yes, the article suggests that the pie can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance before baking.
What is the nutritional information for this chicken pot pie?
The article does not provide specific nutritional information for the recipe. However, it is noted that the recipe makes 8 servings.
