Classic American Chicken Pot Pie
A comforting and hearty classic, this chicken pot pie features tender chicken and a medley of vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a golden, flaky pie crust. Perfect for a cozy meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts(About 2-3 medium breasts. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.)
- 2 cups Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)(Thawed, or use fresh if in season.)
- 2 cups Low-sodium chicken broth(Reserve any poaching liquid if cooking chicken from raw.)
- 1/2 cup Heavy cream(For richness and a creamy texture.)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter(For the roux.)
- 1/4 cup All-purpose flour(To thicken the sauce.)
- 1 package Refrigerated or homemade double pie crust(One for the bottom and one for the top, or use a single crust for the top only if preferred.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt(Or to taste.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper(Freshly ground, or to taste.)
- 1 large Egg(Beaten with 1 tablespoon of water for egg wash.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Cook the chicken: Place chicken breasts in a saucepan, cover with water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through. Remove chicken, let cool slightly, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Reserve about 1 cup of the poaching liquid if using water.
⏱️ 25 minutes - 2
Prepare the filling base: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste (a roux) and smells slightly nutty. Do not let it brown too much.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Thicken the sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth (and reserved poaching liquid, if using) until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce begins to thicken. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Continue to simmer gently for 5 minutes, until the sauce is smooth and coats the back of a spoon.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Combine filling ingredients: Stir the cooked chicken and thawed mixed vegetables into the thickened sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Assemble the pie: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a double crust, carefully line a 9-inch pie plate with one crust. Pour the chicken and vegetable filling into the crust-lined pie plate. Place the second pie crust over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 6
Bake the pie: Brush the top crust evenly with the egg wash. Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
⏱️ 50-60 minutes - 7
Rest and serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set.
⏱️ 15 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a shortcut, use a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat and add it in step 4.
- ✓Ensure the top crust is vented with slits or a decorative cut-out to prevent steam buildup and sogginess.
- ✓If the crust starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent the pie with aluminum foil.
- ✓Allowing the pie to rest before serving is crucial for the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Top with a layer of flaky biscuits instead of a pie crust for a 'biscuit pot pie'.
- Divide the filling and crusts among individual ramekins for single-serving pot pies.
- Add other vegetables like mushrooms, celery, or onions to the filling.