Culinary Gold: Unlock The Secret To The Most Delectable Chicken Pot Pie Recipe You Can Freeze For Busy Weeknights

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a homemade chicken pot pie recipe that you can conveniently freeze for those busy days when you need a quick and delicious meal. This classic dish, made with tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy sauce, is a perfect blend of flavors that will satisfy your cravings. With the convenience of freezing, you can enjoy this hearty meal whenever you need it. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this freezer-friendly chicken pot pie recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening, cold
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
• Use a pastry blender or two forks to cut the butter and shortening 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 refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Filling:

• In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the celery, onion, and garlic and cook until softened.
• Stir in the flour, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk until the mixture thickens.
• Add the chicken, peas and carrots, corn, and frozen corn.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.

3. Assemble the Pot Pie:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch (30 cm) circle.
• Transfer the dough to a 9-inch (23 cm) pie plate and trim the edges.
• Pour the filling into the pie plate.
• Roll out the remaining dough to an 11-inch (28 cm) circle.
• Place the dough on top of the filling and trim the edges.
• Crimp the edges to seal the pot pie.

4. Bake the Pot Pie:

• Brush the top crust with the egg yolk mixed with water.
• Bake the pot pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
• Let the pot pie cool for 15 minutes before serving.

5. Freezing Instructions:

• Once the pot pie has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Place the pot pie in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the pot pie overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for several hours.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove the plastic wrap and aluminum foil from the pot pie.
• Bake the pot pie for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through.

Tips for Freezing Chicken Pot Pie:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Allow the pot pie to cool completely before freezing to prevent the filling from becoming watery.
• Wrap the pot pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the pot pie with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze the pot pie for up to 3 months for optimal quality.

Variations:

• Add your favorite vegetables to the filling, such as broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Use different types of cheese in the filling, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan.
• Top the pot pie with a lattice crust for a decorative touch.
• Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to create a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the chicken pot pie with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Accompany the pot pie with a dollop of sour cream or gravy for extra richness.
• Pair the pot pie with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a comforting and satisfying experience.

Ending Notes:

The chicken pot pie recipe you can freeze is a delightful comfort food that can be enjoyed all year round. With its flaky crust, tender chicken, and savory filling, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The convenience of freezing allows you to have a delicious and homemade meal ready whenever you need it. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and embark on a culinary journey that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.

FAQ:

1. How long can I freeze the chicken pot pie?

You can freeze the chicken pot pie for up to 3 months for optimal quality.

2. Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer. Just make sure it is a deep-dish pie crust to accommodate the filling.

3. What is the best way to reheat the chicken pot pie?

The best way to reheat the chicken pot pie is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for several hours. Then, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pot pie for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through.