Does Chicken Pot Pie Have Dairy? Find Out The Truth Here!

Chicken pot pie, a comforting and delectable dish, has been a culinary staple for generations. However, for those with dairy sensitivities or allergies, the question arises: does chicken pot pie have dairy? This blog post will delve into the dairy content of chicken pot pie, exploring its ingredients and providing guidance on dairy-free alternatives.

Exploring the Ingredients:

Traditional chicken pot pie recipes typically include a creamy sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and cream. These dairy components provide the dish with its rich and velvety texture. Additionally, some recipes may incorporate cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, as a topping or filling.

Dairy-Free Alternatives:

For those who cannot consume dairy, there are several dairy-free alternatives available. Here are some options:

• Dairy-Free Milk: Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can be used as a substitute for milk in the sauce.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Vegan butter or vegetable oil can be used instead of butter.
• Dairy-Free Cream: Cashew cream, sour cashew cream, or coconut cream can be used to create a creamy sauce.
• Dairy-Free Cheese: Vegan cheese made from plant-based ingredients, such as soy, almond, or cashew, can be used as a topping or filling.

Identifying Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pies:

When purchasing pre-made chicken pot pies, it is essential to read the ingredient list carefully. Look for products that are labeled “dairy-free” or “vegan.” Additionally, check for the absence of dairy ingredients, such as milk, cream, cheese, or butter.

Homemade Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie:

Making your own dairy-free chicken pot pie is a great way to control the ingredients and ensure that it is free from dairy. Here is a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup dairy-free milk
• 1/2 cup dairy-free butter or vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup dairy-free flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pre-made pie crust
• Dairy-free cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken in a skillet until browned.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in butter or oil until softened.
4. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
6. Add salt and pepper.
7. Add chicken to the sauce.
8. Pour mixture into a pie crust and top with dairy-free cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.

Takeaways:

Chicken pot pie can be a dairy-rich dish, but with careful consideration and the use of dairy-free alternatives, individuals with dairy sensitivities or allergies can still enjoy this comforting classic. Homemade dairy-free chicken pot pie is a simple and satisfying option that allows you to control the ingredients and ensure that it meets your dietary needs.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. Does all chicken pot pie have dairy?

No, some chicken pot pies are made without dairy ingredients. Look for products labeled “dairy-free” or “vegan.”

2. What are common dairy-free alternatives for chicken pot pie?

Dairy-free milk, butter, cream, and cheese can be used as substitutes.

3. Can I make my own dairy-free chicken pot pie?

Yes, you can make your own dairy-free chicken pot pie using dairy-free alternatives. A simple recipe is provided above.

4. What are some popular dairy-free chicken pot pie brands?

Amy’s Kitchen, Gardein, and Tofurky all offer dairy-free chicken pot pies.

5. Is it safe to eat chicken pot pie if I am lactose intolerant?

No, it is not safe to eat traditional chicken pot pie if you are lactose intolerant. The dairy ingredients in the sauce may trigger lactose intolerance symptoms.