5-star Chicken Pot Pie Recipe From Scratch: The Ultimate Comfort Food

In a world of culinary delights, few dishes can match the heartwarming appeal of a classic chicken pot pie. This timeless comfort food, with its flaky crust, tender chicken, and creamy vegetable filling, has been a staple of kitchens across the globe for centuries. If you’re seeking a recipe that captures the essence of this beloved dish, look no further than this comprehensive guide to creating a chicken pot pie from scratch.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

To craft this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need:

• Crust:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup ice water

• Filling:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions: A Culinary Journey

1. Crust Creation:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
• Using your fingers or a pastry blender, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
• Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

2. Filling Symphony:

• In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper until smooth.
• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until the mixture thickens.
• Stir in the peas and carrots, celery, onion, chicken, and parsley.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

3. Assembly Perfection:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle.
• Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate and trim the edges.
• Pour the filling into the pie crust.
• Roll out the remaining dough to an 11-inch circle.
• Place the top crust over the filling and trim the edges.
• Crimp the edges to seal.
• Brush the top crust with milk and sprinkle with salt.

4. Baking Bliss:

• Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
• Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

A Culinary Symphony Served

With its flaky crust, tender chicken, creamy vegetable filling, and symphony of flavors, this homemade chicken pot pie is a culinary masterpiece that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Gather your loved ones around the table and indulge in this classic comfort food that has stood the test of time.

Variations: A Culinary Canvas

This classic chicken pot pie recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to create a dish that reflects your unique taste. Here are a few ideas to inspire your culinary journey:

• Vegetable Medley: Enhance the filling with a variety of vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms.
• Herbaceous Delights: Add a touch of freshness with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage.
• Seasoning Symphony: Experiment with different seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder.
• Cheese Symphony: Incorporate shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.

A Culinary Legacy: The History of Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie has a rich history dating back centuries. Its origins can be traced to medieval Europe, where it was known as “pastels.” These early versions consisted of a meat or vegetable filling enclosed in a pastry crust. As the dish evolved over time, it made its way to the Americas, where it became a staple of American cuisine. Today, chicken pot pie remains a beloved comfort food enjoyed by families across the globe.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust to save time. However, homemade pie crust offers a superior taste and texture.

2. How can I thicken the filling?

If your filling is too thin, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry. Mix equal parts cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir it into the filling over medium heat until thickened.

3. Can I freeze chicken pot pie?

Yes, you can freeze chicken pot pie before or after baking. To freeze unbaked pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To freeze baked pie, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

4. How do I reheat chicken pot pie?

To reheat unbaked pie, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake according to the recipe instructions. To reheat baked pie, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

5. What can I serve with chicken pot pie?

Chicken pot pie pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.