The Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s nothing quite like a warm, flaky, homemade Chicken Pot Pie to bring a sense of comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. This classic dish is packed with rich, savory flavors and a creamy filling that’s surrounded by a perfectly golden crust. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress your guests, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive in and discover how to make the ultimate Chicken Pot Pie that’s sure to please everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Filling:

• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded (Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option!)
• 1 cup of carrots, diced (Add vibrant color and a hint of sweetness)
• 1 cup of peas (You can use frozen or fresh, whichever is more convenient)
• 1 cup of potatoes, diced (Adds heartiness to the filling)
• 1/2 cup of celery, diced (For a subtle crunch)
• 1/3 cup of butter (Essential for creating a rich roux)
• 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour (Thickens the filling to a perfect consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt (Enhances the flavors)
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper (Adds a slight kick)
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder (For a depth of flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder (Brings out savory notes)
• 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth (The base of the creamy filling)
• 2/3 cup of milk (For a smooth, creamy texture)

For the Crust:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour (The foundation of your crust)
• 1 teaspoon of salt (Balances the richness of the butter)
• 2/3 cup of shortening or cold butter, cut into pieces (Creates a flaky crust)
• 5-7 tablespoons of ice-cold water (Helps the dough come together)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

The crust is the crown jewel of any great Chicken Pot Pie, and it starts with perfect dough. Here’s how you can make it:

• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
• Cut in the Butter/Shortening: Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut in the 2/3 cup of cold butter or shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture in your crust.
• Add Ice Water Gradually: Slowly add 5-7 tablespoons of ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together and forms a ball. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough crust.
• Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, flatten each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and ensures a tender, flaky crust.

2. Make the Filling

Now it’s time to create the heart of the pot pie—its filling. This creamy, savory mix of chicken and vegetables is the essence of comfort food.

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s ready to go when you finish assembling the pie.
• Cook the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt 1/3 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the 1/3 cup of flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder until well blended. This mixture will form a roux, which is the base of your creamy filling.
• Add the Liquids: Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk. Cook and stir continuously until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble. This step is key to achieving that luscious, velvety texture that makes Chicken Pot Pie so comforting.
• Mix in the Vegetables and Chicken: Add the shredded chicken, diced carrots, peas, potatoes, and celery to the saucepan. Stir everything together until the chicken and veggies are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Then, remove the saucepan from heat.

3. Assemble the Chicken Pot Pie

With your filling ready and dough chilled, it’s time to bring everything together.

• Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough into a circle that’s large enough to fit your 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, gently pressing it into the corners. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
• Add the Filling: Pour the prepared chicken filling into the crust-lined pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Top with the Second Crust: Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the filling. Trim, seal, and flute the edges to create a decorative border. Make sure to cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. Bake to Perfection

• Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the crust.
• Let It Cool: Once out of the oven, let the pie cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.

Helpful Tips for the Best Chicken Pot Pie

• Short on Time? If you’re pressed for time, you can use store-bought pie crusts to speed up the process without sacrificing too much flavor. However, making the crust from scratch really elevates the dish.
• Mix Up the Veggies: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. Green beans, corn, or even mushrooms can be great additions to the filling, depending on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
• For a Creamier Filling: If you prefer a richer, creamier filling, consider adding a bit more milk or even a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. This will give the filling an extra indulgent texture.
• Make It Ahead: Chicken Pot Pie can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You can also freeze the unbaked pie for up to a month—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.

FAQs About Chicken Pot Pie

Conclusion

Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting hug in a dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re new to making homemade pies or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. With its golden, flaky crust and rich, creamy filling, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless classic.