As the days get shorter and the air cools, nothing beats the smell of a chicken pot pie baking. This dish brings warmth and comfort, reminding us of simpler times. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a meal with the people we love.
Ever felt scared to make a chicken pot pie from scratch? Don’t worry. Today, I’m sharing a simple recipe that uses cream of chicken soup. It makes the dish easy to make and incredibly delicious.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
- Using cream of chicken soup simplifies the recipe and creates a rich, creamy filling.
- This easy chicken pot pie recipe is a great way to bring your loved ones together around the table.
- The recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences.
- With the right tips and techniques, you can achieve a flaky, golden-brown crust every time.
Table of Contents
Why This Classic Comfort Food Deserves a Spot on Your Dinner Table
Chicken pot pie is a favorite comfort food. It combines tender chicken, savory veggies, and a flaky crust. This dish has been loved for generations, becoming a staple in many American homes. It’s a must-have on your dinner table.
The History Behind Chicken Pot Pie
The ancient Greeks and Romans first made chicken pot pie. They wrapped meat in pastry. This dish traveled to America with settlers, becoming a beloved classic.
As America grew, so did the variations of chicken pot pie. Each region added its own twist, making it a true American dish.
Benefits of Using Cream of Chicken Soup
Using cream of chicken soup in your pot pie saves time. It makes the filling rich and creamy with little effort. The soup’s seasonings also boost the dish’s flavor, making it a satisfying meal.
Chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings. It’s also great for impressing your family with a homemade dish. Its rich history, convenience, and flavor make it a household favorite.
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Making a homemade chicken pot pie is all about the right ingredients. You need a creamy filling and a flaky pastry crust. Each part is crucial for this beloved comfort food. Let’s explore the key elements for the perfect chicken pot pie filling and homemade pot pies for a tasty easy dinner idea.
The filling is the heart of your chicken pot pie. It’s made with cooked chicken, veggies, and a creamy sauce. Here are the main ingredients for the filling:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded or cubed
- Diced carrots, celery, and onions
- Frozen peas or other veggies of your choice
- Cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce
- Seasonings like salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley
For the pastry crust, you can go for homemade dough or a store-bought puff pastry sheet. If you make the crust from scratch, you’ll need flour, butter or shortening, salt, and water. Or, you can use a ready-to-use puff pastry sheet to save time.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
| Chicken | Provides the protein and main filling |
| Vegetables | Adds texture, flavor, and nutrition |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | Creates a rich, creamy sauce for the filling |
| Pastry Crust | Offers a flaky, golden-brown topping |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a homemade chicken pot pie. It will impress your taste buds and warm your dinner table with a classic dish.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
Making a tasty baked pot pie at home needs some key tools and equipment. You’ll need baking dishes and gadgets that save time. The right tools make cooking easier and help you get great results every time.
Must-Have Baking Dishes
To make the perfect chicken pot pie, you’ll need a few important baking dishes:
- A deep-dish pie plate or a 9-inch baking dish to hold the filling
- A rolling pin to evenly distribute and shape the pastry dough
- A sharp knife or pizza cutter to neatly trim the excess dough
- A baking sheet to catch any drips or spills during the baking process
Optional Time-Saving Tools
While not essential, some tools can make making baked pot pies easier:
- Food processor – Quickly pulse the dough ingredients to create a flaky, homemade crust
- Pastry blender – Efficiently cut cold butter into the dry ingredients for a tender, flaky pastry
- Vegetable peeler – Effortlessly peel and prepare the carrots and other vegetables for the filling
- Instant-read thermometer – Ensure the internal temperature of the pot pie reaches a safe, piping hot 165°F
With the right kitchen equipment, you’ll be ready to make delicious, homemade baked pot pies. They will impress your family and friends.
Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a homemade chicken pot pie. It’s made with the convenience of cream of chicken soup. This easy recipe will have you enjoying a delicious, hearty meal in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings, and it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of milk
- 2 cups of cooked, diced chicken
- 2 cups of mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
- 1 (9-inch) refrigerated pie crust
Here’s how to assemble your delicious chicken pot pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and milk. Stir until well blended.
- Add the diced chicken and mixed frozen vegetables to the soup mixture. Gently mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Unroll the refrigerated pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
- Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Top the filling with the remaining pie crust, crimp the edges to seal, and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the chicken pot pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner. The whole family will love it. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!
Tips for Perfect Pastry Crust Every Time
Getting a flaky, golden-brown pastry crust for your homemade pot pies is a big win. With some expert tips, you can make the best pastry crusts every time. Here are some strategies to make sure your pastry crusts are always a hit.
Common Crust Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overwork the dough. This can make it tough and dense. Mix and roll out the dough gently to keep it flaky. Also, don’t skip chilling the dough before baking. This can cause the crust to shrink or not shape right.
Make-Ahead Crust Options
For a quick fix, make your pastry crust ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. This way, you can start on your homemade pot pies early and save time.
| Tip | Benefit |
| Use cold butter or shortening | Promotes flakiness |
| Chill the dough thoroughly | Prevents shrinking and warping |
| Avoid overworking the dough | Maintains tender texture |
| Make the dough in advance | Saves time on busy days |
Remember these baking tips to make pastry crusts that perfectly match your tasty homemade pot pies. Enjoy the joy of a perfect crust every time you bake.
How to Achieve the Perfect Filling Consistency
Getting the right consistency for your chicken pot pie filling is key to a great dish. Whether you’re using cream of chicken soup recipes or making it from scratch, the texture matters a lot.
To get a creamy and thick filling, start by simmering the ingredients until they’re tender. Then, add a thickener like flour or cornstarch. Mix it in slowly, stirring constantly, until it’s just right.
- For a thicker filling, start with a tablespoon or two of thickener.
- If it’s too thick, add a bit of chicken broth or milk to thin it out.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs to boost the flavor.
It’s all about finding the right mix of liquid and thickener for that smooth, velvety texture. With a bit of practice, you’ll get it just right every time.
| Thickening Agent | How to Use | Approximate Measurement |
| All-Purpose Flour | Whisk into the filling until fully incorporated | 1-2 tablespoons per 1 cup of liquid |
| Cornstarch | Combine with a small amount of cold water or broth, then whisk into the filling | 1-2 teaspoons per 1 cup of liquid |
| Roux | Cook equal parts flour and fat (butter or oil) before stirring into the filling | 2-3 tablespoons per 1 cup of liquid |
Remember, start with a small amount of thickener and add more as needed. This will help you get that perfect creamy texture for your chicken pot pie filling.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Leftover chicken pot pie can be a delightful treat. But, it’s important to store and reheat it right to keep its quality and flavor. Follow these tips to enjoy your homemade pot pie even after the first time.
Freezing Instructions
To keep your leftover chicken pot pie fresh, freeze it. Let the pie cool down first. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
This double wrapping prevents freezer burn and keeps it fresh. Your pot pie can stay tasty for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Best Reheating Methods
Ready to enjoy your frozen chicken pot pie? Here are some reheating tips. Thaw the pie in the fridge overnight. Then, bake it at 350°F for 30-40 minutes until it’s golden and hot.
You can also reheat slices in the microwave. Just check and stir them often to heat evenly.
| Reheating Method | Time | Additional Tips |
| Oven | 30-40 minutes | Preheat oven to 350°F, thaw pie in the refrigerator overnight |
| Microwave | 2-3 minutes per slice | Check and stir frequently for even heating |
By using these storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy your leftover chicken pot pie for a long time. It will still taste great and have its perfect texture.
Variations and Substitutions for Dietary Needs
Classic chicken recipes like chicken pot pie can be made for different diets. You can make them gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian. These changes make the dish tasty for everyone’s lifestyle.
Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie
For gluten-free diets, use a gluten-free pie crust. You can make one with gluten-free flour or ground almond flour. Make sure the filling thickener is gluten-free, like cornstarch.
Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
You can make creamy chicken pot pie without dairy. Use plant-based milk and cornstarch for thickening. Vegan butter or coconut oil replace traditional butter in the crust.
Vegetarian Chicken Pot Pie
Make a meatless version by using roasted vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Add sautéed mushrooms or tofu for protein. Top it with a flaky, buttery (or vegan) crust.
These dietary modifications let everyone enjoy homemade chicken pot pie. Try these variations to make a dish that’s good for both body and soul.
Conclusion
In this article, you’ve found a simple recipe for chicken pot pie using cream of chicken soup. This dish brings back the warm feelings of homemade meals. It’s also easy to make, perfect for a family dinner.
The filling is rich and creamy, and the crust is flaky and golden. It’s a hit with everyone, making it a new favorite. It’s great for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat. Feel free to add your own twist with fresh herbs or different vegetables.
So, why wait? Get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and start making your own chicken pot pie. Enjoy the cozy flavors and the joy of a homemade meal. Happy cooking!
FAQ
What is the key ingredient that makes this chicken pot pie recipe so easy?
The secret ingredient is cream of chicken soup. It adds a rich, savory flavor. This makes the filling creamy and luscious, without the need for complicated sauces.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust. It’s a great way to save time and still enjoy a homemade chicken pot pie.
How can I make the filling thicker or thinner to my liking?
To change the filling’s consistency, adjust the chicken broth. Add less for a thicker filling, more for a thinner one. You can also use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it further.
Can I make the chicken pot pie ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can make the pie ahead and freeze it. Prepare the filling and assemble the pie, then freeze it tightly. To bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge or bake straight from the freezer, adjusting the time as needed.
What are some variations I can try for this recipe?
You can try many variations. Use turkey or beef instead of chicken, add mushrooms or peas, or try a biscuit crust. Experiment with different seasonings to change the flavor.