From Scratch In No Time: How To Make The Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
What To Know
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- If the sauce is too thin, make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and add it to the sauce while simmering.
- Homemade chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cold winter night or a cozy gathering.
Chicken pot pie, a classic dish beloved by many, can seem daunting to prepare. However, with this easy-to-follow guide, you’ll discover that creating this culinary masterpiece is surprisingly simple.
Gathering Your Ingredients
To craft the perfect chicken pot pie, you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (15 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
Preparing the Chicken
1. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
1. Add the onion, celery, and carrots to the same skillet used to cook the chicken.
2. Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Making the Sauce
1. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Pie
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Unroll one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie plate.
3. Pour the chicken mixture into the pie crust.
4. Top with the remaining pie crust and crimp the edges.
5. Brush the top of the pie with milk or an egg wash.
Baking the Pie
1. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Add other vegetables to your liking, such as peas, corn, or green beans.
- If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute milk or evaporated milk.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth.
- If the sauce is too thin, make a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and add it to the sauce while simmering.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
Homemade chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cold winter night or a cozy gathering. With its creamy filling, tender chicken, and flaky crust, it’s a dish that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use cooked chicken for my pot pie?
A: Yes, you can use cooked chicken. Simply shred it and add it to the filling.
Q: How can I make my pot pie gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pie crusts and flour.
Q: Can I freeze my chicken pot pie?
A: Yes, you can freeze your pot pie before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw it completely before baking.