Can You Freeze Chicken Pot Pie Before Cooking? Here’s The Proof!

The answer is a resounding yes! Freezing chicken pot pie before cooking is a convenient and time-saving technique that allows you to enjoy this comforting dish whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week or simply want to have a delicious meal on hand, freezing chicken pot pie is an excellent option.

Benefits of Freezing Chicken Pot Pie Before Cooking

• Convenience: Freezing chicken pot pie before cooking allows you to have a ready-to-bake meal whenever you need it. Simply thaw the pie and pop it in the oven for a quick and easy dinner.
• Time-saving: Preparing chicken pot pie from scratch can be time-consuming. By freezing it before cooking, you can save time on the day you want to enjoy it.
• Portion control: Freezing individual portions of chicken pot pie makes it easy to control your serving size and avoid overeating.

How to Freeze Chicken Pot Pie Before Cooking

1. Prepare the Pie:

Assemble the chicken pot pie as usual, filling the pie dish with the chicken, vegetables, and sauce.

2. Cool the Pie:

Before freezing, allow the pie to cool completely. This will prevent the pie from becoming soggy when thawed.

3. Wrap the Pie:

Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring that there are no air pockets. Then, wrap the pie in aluminum foil for added protection.

4. Label and Freeze:

Label the wrapped pie with the date and contents. Freeze the pie for up to 3 months.

Thawing and Baking Frozen Chicken Pot Pie

1. Thaw the Pie:

Remove the frozen pie from the freezer and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to the temperature specified in the recipe.

3. Bake the Pie:

Unwrap the pie and place it on a baking sheet. Bake the pie according to the recipe instructions.

Tips for Freezing Chicken Pot Pie

• Use a freezer-safe pie dish.
• Make sure the pie is completely cooled before freezing.
• Wrap the pie tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze the pie for no longer than 3 months.
• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Variations on Freezing Chicken Pot Pie

• Individual Portions: Freeze individual portions of chicken pot pie in muffin tins or small ramekins.
• Crustless Pie: Freeze the pie filling without the crust. When ready to bake, spread the filling in a pie dish and top with a purchased or homemade crust.
• Soups and Stews: Freeze the chicken pot pie filling as a soup or stew. When ready to serve, heat the soup or stew and add cooked vegetables or dumplings.

Final Note

Freezing chicken pot pie before cooking is a practical and efficient way to enjoy this delicious dish. By following the tips outlined above, you can have a homemade chicken pot pie ready to enjoy whenever you desire. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week, a special occasion, or simply want to have a comforting meal on hand, freezing chicken pot pie is an excellent option.

Common Questions and Answers

1. How long can I freeze chicken pot pie before cooking?

Chicken pot pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.

2. Can I freeze chicken pot pie with the crust already on it?

Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie with the crust already on it. However, the crust may become soggy when thawed, so it’s best to freeze the pie without the crust and add it later.

3. Can I freeze chicken pot pie without the vegetables?

Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie without the vegetables. Add the vegetables when you thaw and bake the pie.

4. Can I freeze chicken pot pie in a glass dish?

No, it is not recommended to freeze chicken pot pie in a glass dish. Glass dishes can crack or shatter in the freezer.

5. Can I freeze chicken pot pie made with raw chicken?

No, it is not recommended to freeze chicken pot pie made with raw chicken. The chicken should be cooked before freezing.