How to Make a Simple Chicken Pot Pie Recipe for Beginners

Did you know that about 75% of U.S. households cook at home at least once a week? Chicken is the top choice for these meals. Chicken pot pie is a favorite, with its mix of chicken, veggies, and creamy sauce in a flaky crust.

Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking. This easy chicken pot pie recipe will help you every step of the way. You’ll make a tasty homemade chicken pot pie without any trouble. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll be making this classic dish in no time.

Introduction to Chicken Pot Pie

Classic chicken pot pie is a true comfort food. It became popular in America in the 19th and 20th centuries. It’s still loved by many today. The dish has ancient roots, dating back to Roman and Greek times, where it was made with leftover meats.

The dish’s charm comes from its creamy filling and flaky crust. It’s filled with tender chicken, carrots, peas, and celery. Thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper add to its flavor. It’s a perfect dish for the cooler months.

This dish is great because you can change it up. You can use different ingredients or store-bought items like puff pastry. This makes it easy for anyone to cook, even beginners.

Getting the filling right is key. Using a roux helps keep it thick. A roux is made by cooking butter and flour together before adding liquid. This ensures the filling stays creamy.

Chicken pot pie is a great choice for a comforting meal. It’s easy to make ahead of time, perfect for busy families. Whether you’re experienced or new to cooking, this dish is sure to please.

Essential Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

To make the *best chicken pot pie recipe*, you need both essential and optional ingredients. These elements are key to the dish’s flavor and texture. They make it a *savory chicken pot pie* that’s irresistible.

Main Ingredients

The main ingredients are crucial for a traditional chicken pot pie. They give the dish its classic taste and texture that everyone loves.

• Chicken: You’ll need 3-4 cups of shredded cooked chicken or one rotisserie chicken. Chicken is packed with about 30% protein, making it a hearty choice.
• Carrots: Use two medium carrots, which add up to about 1 cup. They bring sweetness and color to the dish.
• Celery: Chop one stalk of celery to make roughly ½ cup. It adds a bit of crunch and aroma.
• Peas: Peas are used in 50% of recipes, adding vibrant color and sweetness.
• Pie Crust: The flaky crust is 40% of the total calories and is essential for texture. You can choose between homemade or store-bought, with store-bought gaining 25% in popularity.
• Onion: Use 1/3 cup diced onion as the base for flavor.
• Chicken Broth: About 2½ cups are needed, making up 15-20% of the total volume. It’s crucial for the filling’s consistency.
• Heavy Cream: Add ½ cup for richness in the sauce.
• Flour: You’ll need ⅓ cup plus more for rolling the pastry. Flour thickens the sauce.
• Egg: Use one egg for the egg wash to give the crust a golden color.

Optional Ingredients

Adding optional ingredients can enhance the flavors and complexity of your *savory chicken pot pie*. They don’t add much to the preparation time.

• Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can enhance the flavor.
• Thyme: Adding fresh or dried thyme gives a fragrant aroma.
• Potatoes: Used in 40% of recipes, potatoes add heartiness and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Pot Pie

Making homemade chicken pot pie is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps for a delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Preparation

First, get all your ingredients and tools ready. You’ll need:

• 1 pound (454g) of chicken
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil
• 4 tablespoons (56g) of unsalted butter
• 1 1/4 cups chopped carrots (about 2 ounces or 57g each)
• 1 1/4 cups chopped celery (about 2 1/2 ounces or 68g each)
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme
• 2 teaspoons of kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (44g) of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (480ml) of chicken broth
• 1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon (65ml) of heavy cream, divided
• 6 ounces (175g) of frozen sweet green peas
• 2 teaspoons of lemon zest
• 17 1/4 ounces (490g) of frozen puff pastry (thawed)
• 1 large egg for the egg wash

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (205ºC). If using raw chicken, cut it into pieces and cook in boiling water for 25 to 30 minutes. Then, chop the veggies and prepare the seasonings.

Cooking the Filling

Heat the olive oil in a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until they’re translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the butter and cook until it melts. Stir in the flour for about 1 minute to make a roux.

Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until it becomes thicker. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, cayenne pepper, peas, and lemon zest. Add the cooked chicken and mix well.

Assembling and Baking

Pour the filling into a 9-inch pie dish. Roll out the thawed puff pastry and place it over the filling, trimming any excess. Seal the edges and cut small vents in the crust. Brush the top with an egg wash made from one large egg mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.

Bake the pie at 400°F (205ºC) for about 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor. This recipe makes about 8 servings, with each serving having about 431 calories.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

To make the best chicken pot pie, focus on the details. Choose top-notch ingredients for better taste and look. If you want ease, use a premium pie crust from the store.

Don’t forget the egg wash for a golden glow. Brushing a beaten egg on the top crust adds color and richness.

Seasoning is key to avoid blandness. Mix fresh parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper for a balanced taste. A well-seasoned filling means a tasty pie.

For a flavorful base, sauté chopped carrots, onions, and garlic until tender. This step adds depth to your pie.

Letting the pie rest after baking is crucial. Allow it to cool for a minimum of 15 minutes before serving. This step helps the filling set, making it easier to serve.

Also, cool the filling to room temperature before assembling. This prevents the butter in the crust from melting too soon.

Using the right amount of kosher salt and fresh herbs makes each bite special. Follow these tips for a savory pie with a golden, crisp crust. These small steps can turn a good pie into an unforgettable one.

FAQ

What is chicken pot pie?

Chicken pot pie is a beloved comfort dish in the United States. It has a creamy filling made with chicken, vegetables, and sauce. This is all wrapped in a flaky pastry crust.

How can I make chicken pot pie if I’m a beginner?

This easy chicken pot pie recipe is great for beginners. It uses simple steps and ingredients like rotisserie chicken and puff pastry. This makes it easy and fun to make.

What are the essential ingredients for a classic chicken pot pie?

Key ingredients are chicken, carrots, celery, peas, broth, heavy cream, and pie crust. These all work together to make the pie savory and hearty.

Can I use store-bought ingredients to save time?

Yes, using store-bought pie crust and rotisserie chicken can make cooking easier. You’ll still get a delicious homemade chicken pot pie.

What optional ingredients can enhance the flavor of the chicken pot pie?

Adding lemon zest, thyme, and extra heavy cream can make the pie even better. They add brightness, aroma, and richness.

What are the steps to prepare and cook the filling?

First, prepare the chicken and veggies. Then, cook them until they’re tender. Next, mix them with broth and cream for a thick filling. Follow the instructions carefully for each step.

How do I assemble and bake chicken pot pie?

Put the filling in the pie crust, then cover it with more pastry. Bake until it’s golden. Follow the steps closely for a flaky crust and a well-cooked filling.

What tips can help me achieve a perfect chicken pot pie?

Make sure to season correctly for balanced flavors. Use a good pie crust and an egg wash for a golden look. Let it rest before serving to set the filling. These tips will improve both taste and look.

How can I avoid a bland or overpowering chicken pot pie?

Season well and taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme to your liking. This ensures a savory pie with balanced flavors.

Is chicken pot pie versatile and customizable?

Yes, chicken pot pie is very versatile. You can change it up with different veggies, herbs, and spices. This makes it a customizable comfort food.