Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with Cream of Chicken Soup

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Chicken pot pie slice with salad and wine on a table.

Introduction

Chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is the ultimate comfort food—a flaky crust enveloping a creamy, savory filling filled with tender chicken and colorful vegetables. Moreover, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the heart and a sense of nostalgia to the table. By using cream of chicken soup, you not only simplify the process but also ensure a rich, flavorful base that saves time while still delivering incredible taste. Additionally, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe for chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is undoubtedly your ticket to a hearty, homemade meal that everyone will absolutely love.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to create a delicious chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup. Along the way, we’ll share tips, explore variations, and answer common questions to help you perfect this classic dish. So, let’s dive in and turn these simple ingredients into a meal that’s nothing short of magical.

Ingredients Needed for Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie ingredients on a kitchen counter.

Main Ingredients

  • Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great).
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz), acts as the creamy base.
  • Vegetables: 2 cups mixed (peas, carrots, corn, or green beans).
  • Chicken Broth: ½ cup to thin the soup and enhance the flavor.
  • Milk: ½ cup for creaminess.
  • Seasoning: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and parsley to taste.
  • Pie Crust: 2 pre-made crusts or homemade (for a top and bottom layer).

Optional Add-Ins for a Personal Touch

  • Potatoes: Diced and pre-cooked for extra heartiness.
  • Mushrooms: Sautéed for a rich, earthy flavor.
  • Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist.
  • Onion: Chopped and sautéed for a sweet, savory addition.

When preparing this dish, knowing how to handle vegetables properly is key. For example, learning how to cut broccoli into florets can streamline prep work and ensure evenly cooked ingredients.

Equipment and Tools You’ll Need

  • Equipment Needed: Use a mixing bowl for the filling, a 9-inch pie dish for baking, and a rolling pin for homemade crust. You’ll also need a whisk or spoon, an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C), and a knife and cutting board for prepping ingredients.
  • Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  • Cook the Chicken: Boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred or dice.
  • Prep the Vegetables: Dice fresh veggies and blanch them, or thaw frozen ones for ease.
  • Step 2: Make the Filling
  • Combine: Whisk cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and milk in a bowl.
  • Season: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and parsley.
  • Mix: Fold in the cooked chicken and vegetables.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Pie
  • Prep the Crust: Roll out dough and line the pie dish, trimming the edges.
  • Add Filling: Spread the mixture evenly, top with another crust, seal the edges, and cut vents.
  • Step 4: Bake
  • Brush with egg or milk for a golden crust.
  • Bake for 35-40 minutes until bubbling and golden. Cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Enjoy your flaky, savory chicken pot pie!

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

1. Achieving a Flaky Crust

  • Use Cold Ingredients: When making homemade dough, ensure your butter or shortening and water are ice-cold. This helps create flaky layers. Using ice-cold ingredients is essential for a flaky crust. This tip applies not only to pies but also to other comfort food favorites like smoked mac and cheese.
  • Don’t Overwork the Dough: Over-mixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until the dough comes together.
  • Brush with Egg Wash: A mixture of beaten egg and water brushed over the top crust gives it a beautiful, golden sheen.

2. Enhancing the Flavor of the Filling

  • Season Generously: Taste the filling before assembling the pie and adjust seasonings to your liking.
  • Add Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, consider adding chopped parsley, thyme, or even a sprinkle of rosemary.
  • Incorporate Cheese: A small amount of shredded cheddar or Parmesan mixed into the filling can elevate the flavor profile.

3. Preventing a Soggy Bottom Crust

  • Pre-Bake the Bottom Crust (Optional): Blind baking the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can help it stay firm.
  • Use Thickened Filling: If your filling is too watery, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour before assembling the pie.
  • Vent the Top Crust Properly: Allowing steam to escape helps prevent moisture from accumulating inside the pie.

4. Perfecting the Bake

  • Cover the Edges: Use strips of aluminum foil to cover the edges of the crust during baking to prevent over-browning.
  • Check for Bubbling Filling: The filling should bubble up slightly through the vents when the pie is fully cooked, indicating it’s hot and ready.
  • Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pie to cool for 10-15 minutes lets the filling firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

Variations of Chicken Pot Pie

Assembling a chicken pot pie with filling in the crust.

1. Gluten-Free Chicken Pot Pie

  • Crust Alternatives: Use a gluten-free pie crust or substitute it with mashed potatoes or a topping made from gluten-free biscuit dough.
  • Thickening Agents: Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the filling.
  • Ingredients Check: Ensure that the cream of chicken soup you’re using is gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat-based thickeners.

For those with dietary restrictions, substituting the crust with mashed potatoes or gluten-free alternatives opens up possibilities. Refer to easy gluten-free recipes for more ideas to customize your pie.

2. Vegetarian Pot Pie Alternatives

  • Swap the Chicken: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, sweet potatoes, or chickpeas.
  • Use Cream of Mushroom Soup: Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian-friendly option.
  • Add More Veggies: Include zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach for a vibrant and nutritious filling.

If you’re skipping chicken, add hearty vegetables like broccoli, and don’t forget to read broccoli florets: nutrition, storage, recipes for creative ways to elevate your vegetable game.

3. Using Different Types of Meat

  • Turkey Pot Pie: Perfect for using leftover turkey from holidays like Thanksgiving.
  • Beef Pot Pie: Swap chicken for shredded or ground beef. Add beef broth instead of chicken broth for a richer flavor.
  • Seafood Pot Pie: Shrimp, crab, or a medley of seafood can create a luxurious twist on the classic dish.

4. Low-Carb Chicken Pot Pie

  • Crust-Free Option: Skip the crust entirely and bake the filling in ramekins for a low-carb, high-protein meal.
  • Cauliflower Topping: Use mashed cauliflower as a topping instead of a traditional crust.
  • Keto-Friendly Thickener: Replace regular flour with almond flour or xanthan gum to keep it low-carb.

5. Mini Chicken Pot Pies

  • Portion Control: Use muffin tins to create individual servings, perfect for kids or meal prepping.
  • Crust Options: Use biscuit dough or puff pastry to top each mini pie for an easy and fun alternative.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

1. Side Dishes to Complement Chicken Pot Pie

  • Simple Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pie. Include ingredients like arugula, spinach, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots for a hearty, nutritious pairing.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you’re up for an extra indulgent side, creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the savory flavors of chicken pot pie.

2. Breads and Rolls

  • Dinner Rolls: Soft, buttery rolls are great for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
  • Buttery Biscuits: Flaky biscuits add a Southern flair and can double as a topping for the pie in some variations.
  • Crusty French Bread: A slice of toasted bread can be a satisfying companion for the creamy filling.

3. Beverage Pairings

  • White Wine: A light, crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy filling beautifully.
  • Iced Tea: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a classic choice.
  • Sparkling Water with Citrus: Add a slice of lemon or lime to sparkling water for a simple, palate-cleansing drink.

4. Desserts to Follow the Meal

  • Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamon-laden apple crisp offers a sweet, comforting finish to the meal.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream is light yet indulgent after the savory richness of the pie.
  • Berry Tart: A tart packed with fresh berries provides a tangy, refreshing contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pot Pie

1. Storing Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Place leftover chicken pot pie in an airtight container or cover the pie dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pot pie. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste

To enjoy your chicken pot pie at its best, follow these reheating methods based on your available tools:

In the Oven

  1. Preheat to 350°F (175°C): Ensure the oven is ready before reheating.
  2. Thaw if Frozen: Let the pie thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
  3. Protect the Crust: Use foil to cover the edges and prevent burning.
  4. Bake for 20-30 Minutes: Heat until the filling is hot and bubbly.
  5. Check Thoroughly: Insert a knife or skewer into the center to confirm even heating.

In the Microwave

  1. Portion the Pie: Cut a slice and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover to Retain Moisture: Use a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to keep the crust from drying out.
  3. Heat in Intervals: Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, pausing to check for even heating.

Both methods ensure your chicken pot pie is reheated evenly without compromising its delicious crust or creamy filling.

3. Tips for Maintaining Quality

  • Avoid Overheating: Reheating too long can make the crust soggy and overcook the filling.
  • Refresh the Crust: For a crispier crust, you can briefly reheat slices in a skillet over low heat or under a broiler for 1-2 minutes after microwaving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh chicken, you can cook it beforehand by boiling, baking, or sautéing. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then shred or dice it before adding it to the filling.

2. What vegetables work best in this recipe?

Traditional choices include peas, carrots, green beans, and corn. However, you can use whatever vegetables you like or have on hand, such as zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just ensure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces and pre-cooked if they require longer cooking times.

3. Can I freeze chicken pot pie?

Yes, chicken pot pie freezes wonderfully. To prepare it for freezing, simply wrap the entire pie—whether baked or unbaked—tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Additionally, when you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Finally, bake or reheat the pie as needed to enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort.

4. How do I prevent a soggy crust?

To avoid a soggy bottom crust, you can:

  • Blind bake the bottom crust for 5-10 minutes before adding the filling.
  • Ensure the filling isn’t overly watery by simmering it to thicken before assembly.
  • Vent the top crust well to allow steam to escape.

5. What sides go well with chicken pot pie?

Chicken pot pie is undoubtedly a meal on its own; however, it pairs beautifully with light sides such as a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple fruit salad. Furthermore, dinner rolls or crusty bread make excellent additions to round out the meal, providing both variety and extra comfort.

6. Can I make chicken pot pie ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pop it into the oven directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is a timeless classic that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its flaky crust and creamy, savory filling, it’s the perfect dish for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. By following this recipe, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also customizable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations like gluten-free or vegetarian options, this chicken pot pie is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.