Introduction

Have you ever wondered what makes a chicken pot pie truly exceptional? Is it the flaky, golden crust, the rich and creamy filling, or the perfect blend of tender chicken and fresh vegetables? Dive into our ultimate guide to the BEST Chicken Pot Pie Ever and uncover the secrets behind this classic comfort food.

Ingredients

To create the BEST Chicken Pot Pie Ever, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• One teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape it into discs, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the filling

1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and parsley. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
3. Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, and fresh parsley.

Step 3: Assemble the pot pie

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish. Place the dough in the dish.
3. Pour the chicken and vegetable filling into the prepared crust.
4. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
5. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
7. Let the pot pie cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

1. Cold Butter: Ensure your butter is cold when making the crust. This creates a flakier, more tender crust.
2. Shredded Chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
3. Veggies: Feel free to use fresh or frozen vegetables based on availability.
4. Thickening the Filling: If the filling seems too thin, let it cook a bit longer to thicken, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Substitutions/Variations

1. Crust: Use store-bought pie crust or puff pastry for a quicker version.
2. Meat: Substitute chicken with turkey for a post-Thanksgiving twist.
3. Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like potatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
4. Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives like almond or soy milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the pot pie ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the filling and crust separately and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before assembling and baking.

Q: How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

A: Pre-bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling, ensuring it is not too watery.

Q: Can I freeze chicken pot pie?

A: Absolutely! Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 45-50 minutes.

Storage Instructions

To store leftover chicken pot pie:

1. Allow it to cool completely.
2. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container.
3. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
4. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Conclusion

In our quest to discover the BEST Chicken Pot Pie Ever, we’ve explored the perfect blend of ingredients, detailed instructions, and helpful tips to ensure your success. From the first bite of the flaky crust to the creamy, savory filling, this recipe stands out as a timeless favorite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this chicken pot pie promises comfort and delight in every bite. Now that you know the secrets, it’s time to put them to the test and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience.