What To Know
- Instead of a pie crust, top the pot pie with fluffy biscuits for a more rustic touch.
- Leftover chicken pot pie can be reheated in the microwave or oven for a tasty lunch or dinner the next day.
- You can thaw the frozen pot pie overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a microwave-safe container on medium power until heated through.
Craving a hearty and comforting chicken pot pie but short on time? The answer lies in the freezer! Yes, you can make chicken pot pie ahead of time, saving you precious time and effort during busy weeknights. This comprehensive guide will delve into the art of preparing and freezing chicken pot pie, ensuring a delicious and hassle-free meal whenever you need it.
Preparing the Chicken Pot Pie Filling
Before freezing, it’s crucial to prepare the pot pie filling thoroughly. Here’s how:
- Cook the chicken: Roast or boil boneless, skinless chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Make the gravy: Whisk together flour and butter, then gradually add chicken broth while stirring constantly until thickened.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, vegetables, and gravy to a large bowl and stir well.
Assembling the Pot Pie
Once the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the pot pie:
- Prepare the pie crust: Unroll store-bought or homemade pie crusts and line a 9-inch pie dish.
- Fill the pie crust: Pour the filling into the pie crust and spread it evenly.
- Top with the crust: Place the second pie crust over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
Freezing the Chicken Pot Pie
For optimal results, freeze the chicken pot pie unbaked. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy during thawing and baking.
- Wrap the pie: Wrap the assembled pot pie tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months: Label the pie with the date and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Baking the Chicken Pot Pie
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chicken pot pie overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the wrappings: Unwrap the pie and brush the top crust with an egg wash for a golden brown finish.
- Bake until golden brown: Bake the pie for 45-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Make-Ahead Chicken Pot Pie Variations
- Individual pot pies: Prepare individual pot pies using ramekins or muffin tins for convenient single servings.
- Creamy filling: Add a touch of heavy cream to the gravy for a richer and creamier filling.
- Vegetable variations: Experiment with different vegetables, such as peas, green beans, or mushrooms.
- Topped with biscuits: Instead of a pie crust, top the pot pie with fluffy biscuits for a more rustic touch.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use a high-quality pie crust for a flaky and flavorful crust.
- Don’t overfill the pie crust to prevent it from spilling over during baking.
- Allow the pie to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Meal Planning with Make-Ahead Chicken Pot Pie
Make-ahead chicken pot pie is a lifesaver for busy individuals and families. Here’s how to incorporate it into your meal planning:
- Sunday prep: Set aside some time on Sundays to prepare and freeze chicken pot pies for the week ahead.
- Weekday meals: On busy weeknights, simply thaw and bake a frozen pot pie for a quick and satisfying dinner.
- Leftovers: Leftover chicken pot pie can be reheated in the microwave or oven for a tasty lunch or dinner the next day.
Beyond Chicken Pot Pie: Other Freezable Comfort Foods
Beyond chicken pot pie, there are countless other comfort foods that can be made ahead and frozen:
- Shepherd’s pie
- Lasagna
- Chili
- Enchiladas
- Casseroles
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze chicken pot pie with a baked crust?
Yes, but the crust will become soggy when thawed and reheated. It’s recommended to freeze the pot pie unbaked for optimal results.
How do I reheat a frozen chicken pot pie without baking it?
You can thaw the frozen pot pie overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in a microwave-safe container on medium power until heated through.
Can I use frozen vegetables in my chicken pot pie filling?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but they should be thawed and drained before adding them to the filling to prevent excess moisture.
How long can I keep a frozen chicken pot pie in the freezer?
Properly wrapped and frozen chicken pot pies can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I make chicken pot pie in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken pot pie filling and cook it in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. Then, assemble the pot pie and freeze it unbaked as described above.
