Easy And Delicious – How To Make Chicken Pot Pie From Scratch!

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie, lovingly crafted from scratch using fresh, wholesome ingredients. Our comprehensive guide will guide you through every step, ensuring you create a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

Gather Your Culinary Arsenal

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, assemble the following tools and ingredients:

Tools:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepans
• Baking dish
• Pastry brush
• Knife
• Fork
• Rolling pin

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

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

For the Filling:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work them into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Add the shredded chicken, peas, corn, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 1/4 cup of cold water.
6. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the filling and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 2 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle.
3. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate and trim the edges.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
5. Roll out the remaining dough into a 10-inch circle.
6. Place the dough over the filling and trim the edges.
7. Crimp the edges to seal.
8. Brush the crust with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water).

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Savor the Moment

Serve your homemade chicken pot pie with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. Each bite will transport you to a realm of comfort and culinary bliss.

Tips for a Perfect Pie

• For a flakier crust, use cold butter and ice water.
• Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
• If the filling is too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
• If the filling is too thin, add a little more cornstarch.
• To prevent the crust from burning, cover the edges with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Variations

• Add other vegetables to your filling, such as green beans, mushrooms, or potatoes.
• Use different types of meat, such as turkey, beef, or pork.
• Top the pie with a cheese crust, such as cheddar or Parmesan.

The Enduring Legacy of Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie has been a beloved comfort food for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when people would use whatever meat and vegetables they had on hand to create a hearty and nourishing stew. Over time, the stew evolved into a pie, and the addition of a flaky crust made it a true culinary masterpiece.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
A: Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you are short on time. However, a homemade crust will give your pie a much more authentic and delicious flavor.

Q: How can I make my chicken pot pie ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the pie up to 24 hours ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you are ready to bake it, simply bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

Q: Can I freeze chicken pot pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie for up to 2 months. To freeze, bake the pie according to the directions and let it cool completely. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When you are ready to serve, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.