Chicken potpie is a savory pie that typically consists of a bottom crust, a filling of diced chicken and vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and celery) in a creamy sauce, and a top crust made of pastry dough. The dish is popular in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
To make this recipe, the chicken is typically cooked first and then combined with sautéed vegetables and a creamy sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk or cream. The mixture is then placed into a pie dish lined with pastry dough, and a top crust is added before the dish is baked until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
The recipe is a comfort food that is often served in the fall and winter months, and it can be a hearty and satisfying meal on its own or paired with a side salad or some crusty bread. It is also a good way to use up leftover chicken and vegetables, and many recipes can be adapted to include different types of meat or vegetables depending on personal preferences.
Ingredients for chicken potpie:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 unbaked pie crusts
Directions for chicken potpie:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large skillet, cook chicken, peas, carrots, onion, and celery in butter until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Stir the flour mixture into the chicken mixture until well combined.
- Gradually add chicken broth and milk to the skillet, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the pie crust.
- Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the filling. Seal and flute the edges.
- Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the potpie cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken potpie!
Serving suggestions
- Serve the chicken potpie with a side salad made with fresh greens, vegetables, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus, to add some color and nutrition to the meal.
- Serve the chicken potpie with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food combination. you can serve the recipe with a side of freshly baked biscuits or dinner rolls for a warm and comforting accompaniment.
- Serve the chicken potpie with a side of fresh fruit salad, made with a variety of seasonal fruits, for a light and refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy potpie
Tips and variations
Tips:
- Use a mixture of white and dark meat chicken for more flavor and texture.
- Add in some herbs or spices, such as thyme or paprika, to the filling for extra flavor.
- To save time, you can use pre-made pie crusts instead of making your own from scratch.
- Let the potpie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set and prevent it from being too runny.
Variations:
- Use different vegetables in the filling, such as potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms, depending on personal preferences.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour or pie crust and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Make a mini version of the potpie by using individual ramekins or muffin tins and adjusting the baking time accordingly.
- Use a different type of meat, such as turkey or beef, in place of the chicken for a different flavor.
- Add a layer of shredded cheese on top of the filling before adding the top crust for a cheesy twist on the classic potpie.
Potential health benefits of chicken potpie:
- Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. A serving of chicken potpie can provide a significant amount of protein, especially if it contains a lot of chicken.
- The recipe can be an easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, such as peas, carrots, and celery. These vegetables are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can support overall health and digestion.
- If made with a homemade crust or a crust made with healthier fats like olive oil or coconut oil, chicken potpie can be a source of healthy fats. These fats are important for brain function, hormone production, and cell growth and can also help reduce inflammation in the body.
- It’s important to note that chicken potpie can also be high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, depending on how it is prepared. To make a healthier version, use lower-fat milk or cream, reduce the amount of butter, and use more vegetables and less crust. Enjoy your chicken potpie in moderation as part of a balanced and varied diet.
FAQs
- Can I freeze chicken potpie?
Yes, you can freeze it. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw the potpie in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it in the oven until heated through.
- Can I use pre-made pie crusts?
Yes, you can use pre-made pie crusts. It can save you time and effort in making the crust from scratch. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.
- Can I make chicken potpie in advance?
Yes, you can make it in advance. Assemble the potpie as directed, but don’t bake it. Instead, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed.
- How long does chicken potpie last in the fridge?
It can last for 3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap. It’s important to reheat it thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating.
Nutrition:
| Calories | kcal |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 60 g |
| Sodium | 139 mg |
| Potassium | 7 mg |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Vitamin A | 25 IU |
| Calcium | 15 mg |
| Vitamin C | 0.1 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
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