Chicken pot pie. Just the name conjures up images of cozy evenings, warm kitchens, and the comforting aroma of flaky crust and savory filling. This isn't just any chicken pot pie recipe, though; this is a Taste of Home-inspired version, elevated to deliver a truly exceptional experience. We'll explore the classic recipe and then dive into variations and tips to make this dish your new family favorite.
What Makes This Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Special?
This recipe focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients and techniques that amplify the classic flavors. We'll use a homemade crust for the ultimate flaky texture and a rich, creamy chicken filling packed with vegetables. The secret? A touch of something unexpected to elevate the entire dish. We'll reveal that later!
Taste of Home Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Chicken Pot Pie Perfection
Making the Crust:
- Whisk together flour and salt.
- Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in cooked chicken, peas, and corn.
Assembling and Baking the Pot Pie:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out half of the chilled dough and place it in a 9-inch pie plate.
- Pour the chicken filling into the crust.
- Roll out the remaining dough and either place it over the filling or cut into strips for a lattice top.
- Crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken will significantly reduce prep time. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the filling during the last step.
What if I don't have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with milk or half-and-half, but the filling will be slightly less rich. You could also add a tablespoon of butter for extra richness.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use less butter in the crust, substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour, and use low-sodium chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables to the filling.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble the pie just before baking.
What's the secret ingredient to elevate this recipe?
The secret ingredient is a tablespoon of Dijon mustard added to the filling along with the herbs. It adds a subtle tanginess that perfectly complements the richness of the cream and chicken. Trust me on this one!
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
This Taste of Home-inspired chicken pot pie recipe is a testament to the power of simple, high-quality ingredients and thoughtful techniques. From the flaky, buttery crust to the rich, savory filling, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare for a truly delicious and comforting experience. Enjoy!
