The Surprising History Of Chicken Pot Pie: When Was It Invented?

The origins of chicken pot pie are shrouded in culinary history, with various theories and speculations about its inception. However, the earliest known references to a dish resembling chicken pot pie can be traced back to ancient civilizations.

Ancient Origins

4000 BCE: Evidence suggests that ancient Sumerians prepared a dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a wheat crust.

2000 BCE: Egyptians are believed to have cooked a similar dish called “threed,” which consisted of chicken, vegetables, and a doughy crust.

1000 BCE: The Greeks had a dish called “ptisane,” which was a stew of chicken, vegetables, and barley.

Medieval Europe

1300 CE: A dish called “pasteles” emerged in England, which featured a pastry crust filled with chicken, vegetables, and herbs.

1400 CE: In France, a similar dish called “paté en pot” was popular, made with chicken, vegetables, and a bread dough crust.

The Rise of Modern Chicken Pot Pie

1600 CE: English colonists brought the concept of chicken pot pie to North America.

1700 CE: Chicken pot pie became a staple dish in the American colonies, with regional variations emerging.

1800 CE: The first printed recipe for chicken pot pie appeared in “The Virginia Housewife” cookbook in 1824.

1900 CE: Chicken pot pie became a widely recognized and beloved dish in the United States.

The Role of Refrigeration

The invention of refrigeration in the early 1900s played a significant role in the popularity of chicken pot pie. It allowed for the safe storage of ingredients and the preservation of the dish for longer periods.

Commercialization and Convenience

In the mid-20th century, commercial chicken pot pies emerged, making the dish even more accessible to consumers. Frozen and canned chicken pot pies became popular options for busy households.

Modern Variations

Today, chicken pot pie remains a beloved dish with countless variations. From classic recipes to innovative twists, chefs and home cooks continue to experiment with different ingredients, crusts, and cooking techniques.

Beyond the United States

Chicken pot pie is not exclusive to the United States. It has spread to various parts of the world, including:

• United Kingdom: Known as “chicken and leek pie” or “chicken and mushroom pie.”
• France: Called “poulet en croûte” or “pâté de poulet.”
• South Africa: Known as “hoenderpastei” or “chicken pie.”
• Australia: Referred to as “chicken and vegetable pie” or “chicken and mushroom pie.”

The Enduring Appeal of Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie has stood the test of time for several reasons:

• Comfort food: It evokes a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and home.
• Versatility: It can be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.
• Convenience: It is a relatively easy dish to prepare and can be served as a main course or a hearty snack.
• Cultural significance: It is a dish that has been passed down through generations, connecting people to their culinary heritage.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. What is the oldest known recipe for chicken pot pie?
The earliest printed recipe for chicken pot pie appeared in “The Virginia Housewife” cookbook in 1824.

2. What are some common variations of chicken pot pie?
Variations include vegetarian, gluten-free, creamy, and individual-sized pot pies.

3. How can I make a chicken pot pie from scratch?
You can follow a classic recipe or experiment with different ingredients. The basic steps involve making a crust, preparing the chicken and vegetable filling, and baking the pie.

4. Can I freeze chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie both before and after baking. It is recommended to freeze it in individual portions for convenience.

5. What are some tips for making the perfect chicken pot pie crust?
Use cold ingredients, work the dough quickly to prevent gluten formation, and chill the dough before rolling it out.