Indulge in the ultimate comfort: easy chicken pot pie recipe step by step

Indulge in the comforting warmth of a classic chicken pot pie, crafted from scratch with the finest ingredients. This step-by-step guide will lead you through every intricate detail, ensuring a delectable and satisfying culinary experience.

Ingredients for a Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
• Add the butter and use your fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
• Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

3. Thicken the Sauce

• Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Add the Peas

• Stir in the frozen peas and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.

5. Incorporate the Chicken

• Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

6. Season to Taste

• Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 1 minute more.

7. Assemble the Pie

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle.
• Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate and trim the edges.
• Pour the filling into the pie crust and brush the edges with water.
• Roll out the remaining dough to a 10-inch circle and place it over the filling.
• Trim the edges and crimp to seal.
• Cut a few slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape.

8. Bake and Serve

• Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
• Let the pie cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for a Flawless Pie

• Use cold butter for the crust to prevent it from becoming tough.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can also make it tough.
• Allow the pie to rest before baking to ensure a flaky crust.
• If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
• Serve the pie with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Variations on the Classic

• Add chopped mushrooms or leeks to the filling for extra flavor.
• Use different vegetables, such as green beans or corn, instead of peas.
• Top the pie with a layer of mashed potatoes or biscuits before baking.
• Make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free flour.

The Perfect Ending: A Satisfying Conclusion

Indulge in the savory and comforting embrace of a homemade chicken pot pie, a culinary masterpiece that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. With each bite, you’ll savor the tender chicken, the flavorful vegetables, and the flaky crust that melts in your mouth. Experiment with variations to create your own unique masterpiece, and let the aromas of this classic dish fill your home with warmth and contentment.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

A: Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust to save time. However, homemade crusts are typically flakier and more flavorful.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken for the filling?

A: Yes, leftover chicken works great in pot pie. Just make sure to remove any skin or bones.

Q: Can I freeze chicken pot pie?

A: Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the pie and freeze it unbaked. To freeze after baking, let the pie cool completely and then freeze it.