Introduction
Easy peasy chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that combines tender chunks of chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky pastry crust. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. The great thing about this recipe is that it’s simple and straightforward to make, even for beginner cooks. By following a few easy steps, you can create a delicious homemade chicken pot pie that will surely impress your loved ones.
Homemade Goodness
The beauty of making an easy peasy chicken pot pie at home is being able to control the quality of ingredients and adjust the flavor to your liking. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade chicken pot pie allows you to use fresh vegetables, high-quality chicken, and customize the seasoning according to your preferences. You can also make it in large batches and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later on.
Satisfying and Versatile
Chicken pot pie is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or paired with a side salad for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please a crowd. The creamy filling and flaky crust come together to create a satisfying and hearty dish that will warm you up from the inside out. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, easy peasy chicken pot pie is a timeless favorite for all occasions.
What Tools You’ll Need
Essential Cooking Utensils
– 9-inch pie dish
– Medium saucepan
– Wooden spoon
– Knife
– Cutting board
– Oven mitts
To start preparing your Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie, you will need a 9-inch pie dish to bake the delicious pie in. A medium saucepan is essential for cooking the chicken filling, while a wooden spoon will help you stir and combine the ingredients. A knife and cutting board are necessary for chopping up the vegetables and chicken. Don’t forget to have oven mitts on hand to handle the hot pie dish when taking it out of the oven.
Baking Essentials
– Rolling pin
– Pastry brush
– Fork
– Oven
For the crust of the pot pie, you will need a rolling pin to roll out the dough to the perfect thickness. A pastry brush comes in handy for brushing the top crust with egg wash for a beautifully golden finish. To seal the edges of the pie crust, a fork works well for crimping. Lastly, make sure your oven is preheated to the specified temperature for baking the pot pie to perfection.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
For the Crust:
– 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– ½ cup of unsalted butter, cold and diced
– 4-6 tablespoons of ice water
To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form it into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator.
For the Filling:
– 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 can of cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon of onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. This flavorful filling will be the delicious core of your easy peasy chicken pot pie.
Instructions
Preparing the Filling
– Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
– Add diced chicken, onions, carrots, and celery to the pan.
– Sauté the ingredients until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
– Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to combine.
– Pour in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
– Season with salt, pepper, and other desired herbs like thyme or rosemary.
– Add frozen peas to the filling and mix until evenly distributed.
Assembling and Baking
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Transfer the chicken pot pie filling into a baking dish.
– Roll out the pie crust and place it over the filling, crimping the edges to seal.
– Brush the crust with an egg wash for a golden finish.
– Cut slits on the crust to vent steam while baking.
– Place the dish on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
– Allow the pot pie to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your easy peasy chicken pot pie!
Nutrition Score
When it comes to the nutritional value of Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie, it offers a balanced mix of essential nutrients that can contribute to a wholesome meal choice.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients
The dish includes ingredients like chicken, mixed vegetables, and a flaky crust, providing a good amount of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is a lean protein source essential for muscle growth and repair. The mixed vegetables add fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium. The flaky crust, when made with whole wheat, can offer additional fiber and nutrients compared to a regular crust.
Calorie and Sodium Content
While Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie is nutrient-dense, it’s important to note its calorie and sodium content. One serving may contain a moderate amount of calories depending on portion size and ingredients. To make it healthier, you can consider using low-sodium broth and minimizing added salt during preparation. Be mindful of portion sizes to control calorie intake while still enjoying this comforting meal.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
– Enjoy the warm and comforting “Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie” straight out of the oven for the ultimate experience.
– Serve with a side of fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a contrast in flavors.
– Pair the pot pie with buttery mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
– Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch of color.
Storage Tips
– If you have leftovers, allow the chicken pot pie to cool completely before refrigerating.
– Store any remaining portions in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
– Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, ensuring proper reheating before serving again.
– For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2-3 months.
Variations
Crust Variations
– Experiment with different types of crusts to give your chicken pot pie a unique twist:
– Puff pastry: Replace the traditional pie crust with flaky puff pastry for a lighter and crispier texture.
– Biscuit topping: Top your chicken pot pie with savory biscuits for a Southern-inspired comfort food variation.
– Herb-infused crust: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the crust dough for an aromatic and flavorful touch.
Filling Variations
– Customize the filling of your chicken pot pie to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences:
– Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or a medley of vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes.
– Creamy variation: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to create a richer and more indulgent filling.
– Spicy twist: Incorporate cayenne pepper, paprika, or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat and a flavorful variation.
Explore these crust and filling variations to add creativity and diversity to your classic easy peasy chicken pot pie recipe. Whether you prefer a flaky puff pastry crust or a spicy, creamy filling, these variations offer a range of options to suit different palates and occasions.
FAQs with most people commonly asked questions
Can I make this chicken pot pie ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the filling and the dough ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. When ready to bake, assemble the pot pie and bake according to the recipe instructions.
Can I freeze the chicken pot pie?
When properly stored in an airtight container, the chicken pot pie can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best quality.
Being a delicious and comforting dish, “Easy peasy chicken pot pie” tends to raise common questions among home cooks. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about preparing and storing this meal:
– How long does it take to bake the chicken pot pie?
The chicken pot pie usually takes about 30-40 minutes to bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
– Can I use store-bought dough for the pot pie crust?
While homemade dough is recommended for the best taste, you can use store-bought pie crust as a time-saving alternative.
– What vegetables can I add to the chicken pot pie?
Common vegetables include carrots, peas, celery, and onions, but feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies.
– How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To avoid a soggy crust, you can blind bake the bottom crust before adding the filling or placing the pie on a preheated baking sheet.
Conclusion
Enjoy a Delicious and Wholesome Meal
– The Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie recipe offers a savory and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
– By following these simple steps, you can create a homemade pot pie that is bursting with flavor and filled with tender chicken and hearty vegetables.
– The golden-brown crust adds a delightful crunch to every bite, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Get Creative with Your Pot Pie
– Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to customize your chicken pot pie to suit your taste preferences.
– Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of freshness, or swapping out vegetables to include your favorites.
– You can also try using different types of crusts, such as puff pastry or biscuit dough, to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
In conclusion, the Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie recipe is a fantastic option for home cooks looking to whip up a wholesome and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering results, this pot pie is sure to become a family favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a comforting and satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.