Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup -

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, Ingredients for a Delicious Ingredients for a Delicious chicken pot pie recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup with Cream of Chicken Soup stands out as a classic favorite. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, creamy filling, all encased in a flaky, golden crust. What’s more, the star ingredient in this particular recipe—cream of chicken soup—adds a velvety richness. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also simplifies the process without sacrificing quality.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a dish to impress your guests, this chicken pot pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to tweak ingredients to match your taste preferences or dietary needs. Ready to learn how to make it? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Overview

Ingredients for a Delicious Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each plays a critical role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors:

Cooked Chicken: You’ll need about 2 cups, shredded or diced. For convenience, rotisserie chicken works great, but alternatively, you can cook your own chicken for a fresher option.
Vegetables: A medley of frozen or fresh veggies, such as peas, carrots, green beans, and corn. You’ll need about 2 cups total.
Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz), which forms the creamy base of the filling.
Milk: 1/2 cup, to blend with the soup and create the perfect consistency.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme for a savory flavor boost.
Pie Crusts: 2 pre-made pie crusts or homemade dough, one for the base and one for the top.
Butter: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing vegetables if using fresh ones.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up, there are plenty of ways to customize the recipe. For example, here are a few options:

Protein Substitutes: Swap chicken for turkey, tofu, or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian version.
Alternative Cream Bases: Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
Crust Options: Use puff pastry or biscuits instead of a traditional pie crust for a fun twist.

Preparing the Filling

Cooking Chicken for Pot Pie

The chicken is the heart of the filling, and as such, you have several options to choose from, depending on your time and preferences. For instance, you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or alternatively, cook your own for a fresher taste:

Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and flavorful option. Shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Boiled Chicken: Boil chicken breasts or thighs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Once cooked, allow them to cool before shredding or chopping.
Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers from a previous meal.

To ensure the best results, use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. On the other hand, you could opt for a mix of white and dark meat so that you achieve a well-balanced taste.

Sautéing Vegetables

While frozen mixed vegetables are a convenient choice, fresh veggies bring a more vibrant taste and texture to the dish. Here’s how to prepare them:

Choose Your Veggies: Use peas, carrots, celery, green beans, or any combination you like.
Sauté for Flavor: Heat a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your chopped fresh vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. If using frozen vegetables, you can skip this step and add them directly to the filling.

In order to enhance their flavor, season the vegetables lightly with salt and pepper. Additionally, this simple step helps to bring out their natural sweetness and make the dish even more delicious.

Using Cream of Chicken Soup for Richness

The cream of chicken soup is what ties the filling together, giving it that signature velvety texture. To prepare the creamy base:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and milk. Whisk them together until smooth and lump-free.
Add a sprinkle of thyme, garlic powder, and a touch of black pepper to elevate the flavor profile.

Combining the Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together:

In the mixing bowl with the creamy base, fold in the cooked chicken and vegetables.
Mix thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Crafting the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Crust

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Pie Crust

The crust can make or break a chicken pot pie. While store-bought crusts are a convenient and reliable option, a homemade crust adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Here are your options:

Store-Bought Crust: Look for pre-made pie crusts in the refrigerated or frozen section of your grocery store. Thaw according to package instructions before using.
Homemade Crust: If you want to go the extra mile, prepare a simple crust using flour, butter, salt, and water. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out for use.

Tips for a Flaky Crust for Your Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

To ensure your crust is both visually appealing and delicious:

Chill the Dough: If using homemade dough, keep it cold until you’re ready to roll it out. Cold butter creates steam during baking, resulting in flakiness.
Roll Evenly: Aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch to prevent uneven baking.
Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with a mixture of beaten egg and a tablespoon of water for a glossy, golden-brown finish.
Ventilation: Use a sharp knife to create small slits or decorative patterns in the top crust. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing a soggy crust.

Assembly of the Pot Pie

Layering Ingredients for Even Distribution

Proper layering ensures each slice of your chicken pot pie is perfectly balanced. Follow these steps:

Roll out the bottom crust and gently press it into a greased 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges.
Pour the prepared filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Roll out the top crust and carefully lay it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie securely.

Sealing the Crust and Creating Steam Vents

To lock in the flavor and prevent spills:

Crimp the Edges: Use your fingers or a fork to create a tight seal between the top and bottom crusts.
Decorative Edges: Get creative by shaping the crust into fluted patterns or adding small dough cutouts for an aesthetic touch.
Steam Vents: Use a knife to cut slits or a fork to pierce small holes in the center of the top crust. These vents allow steam to escape, keeping the crust crisp.

Baking the Chicken Pot Pie with Creamy Filling

Ideal Temperature and Time for Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup

To begin with, baking your chicken pot pie properly ensures a golden, flaky crust and a hot, bubbling filling. For this reason, follow these steps carefully to achieve the best results:

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare for Baking: Place the assembled pot pie on a baking sheet to catch any overflow during baking. This step saves you from a messy oven cleanup later.
Bake: Place the pot pie in the center rack of the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.
- The crust should turn a deep golden-brown, and the filling should bubble slightly through the steam vents.
Check Doneness: If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil halfway through baking.

Troubleshooting Issues When Making chicken pot pie recipe

If you encounter any problems during the baking process, these tips can help:

Soggy Bottom Crust: To prevent this, pre-bake the bottom crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
Uneven Cooking: Rotate the pie halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Filling Too Runny: If you notice the filling is too liquidy after baking, let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to thicken as it cools.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Chicken Pot Pie with Side Dishes

Chicken pot pie is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal:

Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
Soup: Serve with a cup of tomato or butternut squash soup for added comfort.
Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts are excellent options.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Interestingly enough, leftover chicken pot pie tastes just as delicious—or perhaps even better—the next day. In order to enjoy it fully, here’s how to store and reheat it: First, make sure it’s properly covered before storing, and then, follow the reheating instructions for the best results.

Refrigeration: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the entire pie or individual slices tightly in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, increase the time to 40-50 minutes.

Variations and Creative Twists

Individual Pot Pies in Ramekins

For instance, if you want a personalized touch, you could consider making individual chicken pot pies in ramekins or oven-safe bowls. To get started, here’s how:

Divide the Filling: Portion the prepared filling evenly into ramekins.
Top with Crust: Cut the pie crust into smaller rounds, large enough to cover each ramekin. Press and crimp the edges for a snug fit.
Bake: Reduce the baking time slightly to 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

This approach is perfect for dinner parties or when serving a crowd with varied appetites.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

In fact, a chicken pot pie recipe can be adapted for different dietary needs without ever compromising flavor. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free or dairy-free options, it’s easy to customize this dish.

Gluten-Free

Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust, available in most stores, or make one with gluten-free flour.
Soup: Replace cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version or make your own by thickening chicken stock with cornstarch.

Dairy-Free

Soup Substitute: Use dairy-free cream of chicken soup or substitute with coconut milk and a chicken broth mix.
Crust: Use vegan butter or shortening in your pie crust recipe.

As a result, these alternatives make the dish accessible to everyone at the table, ensuring that no one is left out.

Flavor Enhancements

Moreover, with endless opportunities for customization—ranging from individual ramekins to gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations—this recipe truly ensures that everyone can enjoy its timeless appeal.

Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan in the filling for added creaminess.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, rosemary, or tarragon for a burst of herbal flavor.
Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to deepen the flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrients Breakdown

While nutritional values vary based on ingredients, here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving of traditional chicken pot pie (1/6 of a 9-inch pie):

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 20-25g
Carbohydrates: 35-40g
Fat: 20-25g

Adjusting Portions for Dietary Needs

Lower Calories: Use less crust or substitute it with phyllo dough for a lighter option.
Higher Protein: You can add more chicken to boost protein content, or alternatively, swap some vegetables for high-protein ingredients like chickpeas. This way, you can easily tailor the recipe to suit your nutritional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Chicken Pot Pie Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! A chicken pot pie recipe is a fantastic make-ahead dish. In fact, it’s perfect for busy schedules and can save you time later.

Preparation: Assemble the pot pie completely but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Baking: When ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

2. What Should I Do If the Filling is Too Runny?

A runny filling can be disappointing, but it’s an easy fix:

Thicken Before Baking: Stir 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water into the filling and heat gently until it thickens.
Post-Baking Solution: Let the pot pie rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. The filling will thicken as it cools.

3. Can I Freeze chicken pot pie recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken pot pie freezes well both before and after baking.

Before Baking: Assemble the pie and wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes.
After Baking: Let the pie cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 40-50 minutes.

4. How Long Does Chicken Pot Pie Last in the Fridge?

When stored properly, chicken pot pie can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

5. Can I Use Puff Pastry Instead of Pie Crust?

Yes! Puff pastry makes an excellent alternative for a lighter, flakier crust. Use it to top the filling, and bake as directed. For the best results, ensure the puff pastry is cold before baking to achieve maximum puff.

6. How Can I Make Mini Chicken Pot Pies?

Mini pot pies are fun and easy to make:

Use a muffin tin or small tart pans.
Line each compartment with pie crust, fill with the prepared chicken mixture, and cover with another piece of crust.
Seal the edges and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion

Chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining simplicity with rich, hearty flavors. Its flaky crust, creamy filling, and tender chicken create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. Moreover, with endless opportunities for customization—ranging from individual ramekins to gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations—this recipe truly ensures that everyone can enjoy its timeless appeal.

By following the steps in this guide, you’ll master the art of making a chicken pot pie that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The golden crust, savory filling, and versatility make it not only delicious but also a go-to recipe for years to come. Now, it’s time to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start baking. Enjoy every bite!

The Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup