Chicken pot pie is a classic American comfort food that's been warming hearts for generations. Its origins trace back to ancient Greece and Rome, where folks baked meat and veggies in a tasty crust. Over time, it evolved into a beloved dish for thrifty home cooks who could use up leftover chicken and produce. Nowadays, you can find it in both homemade and frozen forms, but nothing beats the aroma of a freshly baked pot pie straight from the oven. With its flaky crust and creamy, veggie-packed filling, it's no wonder this dish continues to be a family favorite. There's more to discover about the history and recipes for this comforting classic.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken pot pie is a classic American comfort food with origins tracing back to ancient Greece and Rome.
- The dish evolved in the United States during the 1800s as a way for thrifty homemakers to utilize leftover chicken and vegetables.
- The recipe typically involves combining diced chicken, vegetables, and a creamy filling, then baking it in a pie crust.
- Proper preheating of the oven to 375°F ensures the crust develops a golden-brown texture and the filling cooks thoroughly.
- Allowing the baked pie to cool for 10-15 minutes helps the filling set and the crust firm up for easy slicing.
History
Where did the chicken pot pie originate? Believe it or not, this comforting dish has been around for centuries! The origins of chicken pot pie can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where people would bake meat and vegetables inside a crust.
Over time, the recipe evolved, and the chicken pot pie we know and love today started taking shape in the United States during the 1800s. Back then, it was a way for thrifty homemakers to use up leftover chicken and vegetables.
The flaky crust and savory filling made it a hit with families. As the years went by, chicken pot pie became a classic American comfort food, bringing back memories of home-cooked meals and warm, cozy kitchens. Many people have their own cherished chicken pot pie recipe, passed down through generations and cherished as a family heirloom. Just like a pot roast recipe, everyone has their own little twist or secret ingredient that makes their version stand out. Whether it’s adding extra veggies, using a special seasoning blend, or even a unique pastry topping, the variations on this classic dish are as diverse as the families who enjoy it. Regardless of the recipe, one thing remains constant: the comforting, satisfying feeling of enjoying a warm slice of homemade chicken pot pie.
Today, it's still a beloved dish that brings people together and provides a taste of nostalgia in every bite. Whether you make it from scratch or grab a frozen version, chicken pot pie is a true classic that's here to stay.
Cooking Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the diced chicken, carrots, celery, potatoes, onions, and peas.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, and seasonings until smooth.
Pour the soup mixture over the vegetables and chicken, then stir everything together until well combined.
Roll out the pie dough and line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the crusts.
Spoon the chicken and vegetable filling into the crust.
Top with the remaining pie dough, crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade chicken pot pie!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 375°F
Preheating the oven to the optimal temperature is a crucial first step in the baking process. You'll want to set your oven to 375°F, which is the perfect heat level for ensuring your chicken pot pie cooks through evenly and develops that delightful golden-brown crust.
This temperature strikes the right balance, providing enough heat to bake the pie thoroughly without burning the exterior. Once you've adjusted the oven dial, it's important to give the appliance a few minutes to reach the desired temperature.
This allows the internal components to fully heat up and stabilize, creating the ideal conditions for baking. Be patient during this time – it's worth the wait to have your pie turn out picture-perfect!
While the oven is preheating, you can start preparing the other ingredients and assembling your chicken pot pie. This efficient multitasking will help you get the dish in the oven as soon as it's ready, maximizing the freshness and flavor.
Step 2. Prepare Vegetables for Sautéing
With the oven now preheating, it's time to turn your attention to preparing the vegetables. First, grab a sharp knife and a cutting board. You'll need to dice the onion, carrot, and celery into small, uniform pieces. Be careful with the knife – go slowly and watch your fingers!
Once the veggies are chopped, it's time to sauté them in a large skillet. Drizzle in a bit of olive oil and turn the heat to medium. Toss in the onion and let it cook for a minute or two until it starts to soften.
Then add the carrot and celery. Sauté the vegetables, stirring frequently, until they're tender and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be cooked through but still have a bit of bite.
When they're done, remove the skillet from the heat and set the veggies aside. They'll get added to the filling later on.
Step 3. Make the Pie Dough
To make the pie dough, you'll need to combine the dry ingredients first. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
Cut in 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of chilled shortening using a pastry blender or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Now, make a well in the center and pour in 1/4 cup of ice-cold water. Use a fork to gently mix the water into the dry ingredients, just until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
When you're ready to use the dough, lightly flour your work surface and roll it out into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish.
Carefully transfer the dough to the dish and trim any excess. Now you're ready to fill the pie and bake!
Step 4. Assemble and Bake the Pie
Once the pie dough is chilled, it's time to assemble and bake the pie. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the bottom crust dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough into the dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides.
Next, add the chicken filling to the crust. Spread it out evenly, making sure to reach the edges.
Roll out the top crust dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Carefully place the top crust over the filling. Crimp the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken pot pie!
Step 5. Allow Pie to Cool
After the pie has finished baking, let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This gives the filling time to set up, so you don't end up with a runny mess when you cut into it.
The crust also needs a chance to firm up a bit. During this time, the aromas of the chicken, vegetables, and herbs will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation.
Once the pie has had a chance to cool, it's time to dive in! Use a sharp knife to slice through the golden-brown crust, revealing the steaming hot, creamy filling inside.
Scoop out generous portions, making sure to get a bit of that delicious crust in each bite. Serve the chicken pot pie warm, with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the savory sauce.
Enjoy every last morsel – this homemade dish is sure to become a new family favorite!
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, a delightful chicken pot pie can be the perfect comfort food, filling your home with its aromatic blend of savory flavors.
After all the effort you've put into crafting this dish, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
The golden, flaky crust and the creamy, chicken-filled interior are sure to delight your taste buds.
As you savor each bite, you'll be transported to a cozy, homey feeling that only a homemade pot pie can provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Type of Chicken to Use?
For the best chicken in your recipe, you can't go wrong with a nice, juicy chicken breast!
Chicken breasts are lean and tender, making them perfect for all your cooking needs. Whether you're grilling, baking, or sautéing, chicken breasts will give you that delicious, homemade flavor you're looking for.
Plus, they're so versatile – you can season them however you like to make your dish truly your own.
Get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal with the best chicken around!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! Using store-bought pie crust is a great option for making homemade chicken pot pie.
It's quick, convenient, and gives you a delicious flaky crust without all the work. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for best results.
The store-bought crust will bake up perfectly and complement the rich, creamy filling.
Give it a try – you'll be surprised how easy it's to make a tasty chicken pot pie with store-bought crust.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Pot Pie?
Leftover chicken pot pie can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Just pop it in an airtight container, and you're good to go!
When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave.
The flaky crust and savory filling will taste just as delicious as the day you made it. Yum!
Just be sure to eat it up before it goes bad.
Enjoy those leftovers!
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make chicken pot pie ahead of time!
It's a great make-ahead dish that can be stored in the fridge or freezer. Just prepare the pie as usual, then either bake it right away or freeze it unbaked.
When you're ready to enjoy it, simply pop it in the oven and let it bake until hot and bubbly.
This makes it super easy to have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to go whenever you need it!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Chicken Pot Pie?
When it comes to side dishes that pair well with a hearty main course, you've got plenty of tasty options!
You could go for a fresh, crisp salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Or how about some roasted veggies, like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans?
And don't forget the classics – fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls would be the perfect accompaniment.
The key is to choose sides that complement the flavors and textures of the main event.
Rachel is all about nostalgic comfort food with a modern twist. She brings the flavors of classic American diners to Cook if Ya, with her takes on burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Rachel’s love for simple, hearty meals brings a bit of retro flair to the table, reminding us all of the joys of classic diner dishes.
