The Best Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Make Ahead And Bake Later!

Introduction:

Craving a comforting and hearty chicken pot pie but don’t have the time to bake it right away? The question arises: can you make chicken pot pie and bake later? The answer is a resounding yes! This guide will provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to prepare your chicken pot pie in advance and bake it at your convenience.

Benefits of Making Chicken Pot Pie Ahead of Time

• Convenience: Prepare your pot pie ahead of time and enjoy the flexibility of baking it when you’re ready.
• Time-saving: Get the bulk of the work done in advance, leaving you with minimal effort when it’s time to bake.
• Perfect for busy schedules: Meal prep made easy! Prepare your pot pie on a weekend or during your free time.
• Meal planning: Plan your meals ahead by making your chicken pot pie in advance.

How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Ahead of Time

1. Prepare the Crust:

• Make your favorite pie crust recipe or use a pre-made crust.
• Roll out the dough and fit it into a pie dish.
• Trim the edges and crimp as desired.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Season and cook your chicken breasts or thighs until fully cooked.
• Shred or cube the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

3. Make the Filling:

• Sauté vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions in butter.
• Add flour to thicken the mixture and create a roux.
• Gradually whisk in chicken broth until the sauce is smooth.

4. Combine Ingredients:

• Add the cooked chicken, vegetables, and sauce to a large bowl.
• Stir in any additional ingredients such as peas, corn, or potatoes.

5. Assemble the Pie:

• Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
• Top with the remaining pie crust and crimp the edges.

6. Refrigerate or Freeze:

• Refrigeration: Cover the assembled pie and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Cover the assembled pie and freeze for up to 3 months.

Baking the Chicken Pot Pie Later

1. Thaw the Pie:

• If frozen, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for several hours.

2. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in your pie crust recipe.

3. Bake the Pie:

• Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake according to the recipe instructions.

4. Check for Doneness:

• Insert a toothpick into the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the pie is done.

Tips for Baking Chicken Pot Pie Later

• Use a deep-dish pie dish to prevent the filling from overflowing.
• Cover the edges of the crust with foil to prevent burning.
• If the crust starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil.
• Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Variations on Chicken Pot Pie

• Vegetable Pot Pie: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Seafood Pot Pie: Replace the chicken with seafood such as shrimp, crab, or scallops.
• Creamy Chicken Pot Pie: Add a cup of heavy cream to the filling for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free Pot Pie: Use a gluten-free pie crust and flour mixture.
• Individual Pot Pies: Divide the filling into individual ramekins or muffin cups for easy portioning.

Conclusion:

Making chicken pot pie ahead of time is an excellent way to save time and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal whenever you desire. By following the tips and instructions provided in this guide, you can prepare your pot pie in advance and bake it later with ease. So, next time you’re short on time, don’t hesitate to make your chicken pot pie ahead of time and enjoy the convenience of baking it later!

FAQ:

1. How long can I store an assembled chicken pot pie in the refrigerator before baking?

• Up to 3 days.

2. Can I freeze a chicken pot pie before baking?

• Yes, for up to 3 months.

3. How do I know when the chicken pot pie is done baking?

• Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the pie is done.