Chicken Pot Pie Flaky Crust
Highlighted under: Warm Plates
Delight in the warmth of a classic Chicken Pot Pie with an irresistibly flaky crust. Perfect for cozy dinners!
This Chicken Pot Pie with a flaky crust is a family favorite that brings comfort and satisfaction. It's packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a golden, flaky crust.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The flaky crust that perfectly complements the hearty filling
- A comforting dish that warms you from the inside out
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or leftover meats
The Heart of Comfort Food
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm Chicken Pot Pie, especially when the weather turns chilly. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce all enveloped in a flaky, golden crust. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that brings families together around the dinner table. With each bite, you'll find a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Chicken Pot Pie is also a versatile dish, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether you prefer classic peas and carrots or want to experiment with corn, green beans, or even sweet potatoes, the filling can easily be adjusted to suit your taste. This adaptability makes it an ideal recipe for using up leftover meats and veggies, reducing food waste while still delivering a hearty meal.
Mastering the Flaky Crust
The flaky crust is arguably the star of this Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Achieving that perfect texture requires a few simple techniques. Using chilled butter and ice water is crucial as it helps create steam during baking, which results in a light and flaky crust. Additionally, be careful not to overwork the dough; a gentle touch will yield the best results. Remember, the goal is to keep the butter in small pieces within the dough, which will melt during baking to form those delicious layers.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try adding herbs or spices to the crust for an extra layer of flavor. A pinch of herbes de Provence or a sprinkle of garlic powder can elevate your pie to new heights. Don't forget to brush the top with an egg wash before baking for that beautiful golden finish!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Chicken Pot Pie, a simple side salad can complement the rich flavors of the dish perfectly. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing out the hearty filling. Alternatively, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce, making the meal even more satisfying.
For a more festive touch, pair your pot pie with a glass of white wine. A crisp Chardonnay or a light Pinot Grigio can enhance the flavors of the chicken and vegetables, making your dinner feel extra special. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this Chicken Pot Pie is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Flaky Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Make the Flaky Crust
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and onion powder until smooth. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough ball to fit a pie dish. Pour filling into the crust. Roll out the second dough ball and place it over the filling.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Pot Pie with a flaky crust!
Tips for Perfecting Your Pie
To ensure your Chicken Pot Pie turns out perfectly every time, it's important to prep your ingredients before you start cooking. Dice your vegetables and shred your chicken in advance to streamline the process. This not only saves time but also allows you to focus on achieving the perfect consistency for your filling.
Another tip is to let your filling cool slightly before assembling your pie. If the filling is too hot, it can cause the crust to become soggy. A brief cooling period helps maintain that ideal flaky texture in the crust while ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover Chicken Pot Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you have a whole pie left, you can also freeze it before baking, which is great for meal prep. Just wrap it well in plastic and aluminum foil, and it will last for up to three months in the freezer.
When it comes to reheating, the oven is your best friend. Reheat your slices at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the crust, unlike microwaving, which can lead to a soggy texture. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this dish all over again!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crust a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
→ What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to add veggies like corn, green beans, or mushrooms to the filling.
→ Can I freeze the pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
→ Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Chicken Pot Pie Flaky Crust
Delight in the warmth of a classic Chicken Pot Pie with an irresistibly flaky crust. Perfect for cozy dinners!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Warm Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Flaky Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and onion powder until smooth. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened. Add chicken, carrots, peas, and potatoes. Remove from heat.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough ball to fit a pie dish. Pour filling into the crust. Roll out the second dough ball and place it over the filling. Seal and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g