Can You Freeze Chicken Pot Pie? Here’s The Answer!

The answer is a resounding yes! Chicken pot pie is an excellent candidate for freezing, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish at your convenience. Whether you’re preparing ahead of time for a busy week or simply want to preserve leftovers, freezing chicken pot pie is a smart and convenient solution.

How to Freeze Chicken Pot Pie

Freezing chicken pot pie is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Cool the Pie: Allow the freshly baked chicken pot pie to cool completely to room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming inside the freezer container.
2. Remove the Crust: Carefully lift the top crust off the pie and set it aside.
3. Freeze the Filling: Transfer the pie filling into an airtight freezer-safe container. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the filling to prevent freezer burn.
4. Freeze the Crust: Wrap the top crust in plastic wrap and place it in a separate freezer-safe container.
5. Label and Date: Label the containers with the contents and date to keep track of what’s inside and when it was frozen.

How Long Does Chicken Pot Pie Last in the Freezer?

Properly frozen chicken pot pie will last for up to 3 months. It’s important to note that the quality of the pie may deteriorate over time, so it’s best to consume it within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.

Thawing and Reheating Chicken Pot Pie

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen chicken pot pie, follow these steps to thaw and reheat it:

1. Thaw the Filling: Transfer the frozen filling to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight.
2. Reheat the Filling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the thawed filling into a greased baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until heated through.
3. Reheat the Crust: While the filling is reheating, preheat a skillet over medium heat. Add a knob of butter and place the frozen crust in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Pie: Remove the foil from the filling and place the reheated crust on top. Return the pie to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is heated through and golden brown.

Freezing Chicken Pot Pie with Unbaked Crust

If you prefer to bake the chicken pot pie later, you can freeze it with an unbaked crust. Follow the same steps as above, but omit baking the crust before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw the filling in the refrigerator overnight and then assemble the pie with the frozen unbaked crust. Bake the pie according to the recipe instructions.

Freezing Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuit Topping

Chicken pot pie with a biscuit topping can also be frozen. Prepare the pie as usual, but instead of a traditional crust, top it with homemade or store-bought biscuits. Freeze the pie following the steps outlined above. When ready to bake, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is heated through.

Tips for Freezing Chicken Pot Pie

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Allow the pie to cool completely before freezing to prevent condensation.
• Wrap the filling tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the containers with the contents and date to keep track of what’s inside.
• Thaw the filling in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
• Reheat the pie in a preheated oven to ensure even heating.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I freeze chicken pot pie with cooked chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie with cooked chicken. Simply allow the chicken to cool completely before adding it to the filling.

Q: Can I freeze chicken pot pie with vegetables?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie with vegetables. Add your favorite vegetables to the filling before freezing.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy when reheating?
A: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, reheat the filling and crust separately. Reheat the filling in a covered baking dish and the crust in a skillet.