Comfort Chicken Pot Pie

Name: Comfort Chicken Pot Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 1 cup diced potatoes; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup flour; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 package refrigerated pie crusts; 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Whenever I think of cozy family gatherings, I can't help but recall the glorious scents of my Comfort Chicken Pot Pie wafting through the kitchen. This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce all enveloped in a flaky crust—it's pure comfort in a dish! Over the years, I've perfected this recipe with just the right balance of herbs and spices. A sprinkle of thyme adds an aromatic touch that elevates each bite, making it a go-to during chilly evenings or festive celebrations.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T20:46:27.285Z

When I first attempted to create my own chicken pot pie, I used a traditional approach, but I found that making the sauce from scratch added a depth of flavor that's truly unmatched. By slowly sautéing the onions and carrots before incorporating the chicken, you create a rich base that enhances the overall taste. The secret? Don't rush this step; let the veggies get a nice caramelization happening!

An important tip I've learned is to allow the filling to cool slightly before adding it to the pie crust. This prevents the crust from getting soggy and ensures that every slice holds its shape beautifully. As you'll see, it's these small techniques that make a big difference.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Heartwarming, homemade flavors that remind you of family dinners
Creamy filling paired with perfectly flaky crust
Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables or spices

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Filling

Getting the filling just right is crucial for an outstanding chicken pot pie. Start by sautéing the onions until they are translucent, which usually takes around 5 minutes. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely sweetness to the dish. When adding the flour, be sure to stir continuously for about a minute until it becomes a paste; this prevents any raw flour taste from lingering in your filling.

As you incorporate the chicken broth, whisk constantly to maintain a smooth consistency. Aim for a thick, creamy texture—this might take about 5 minutes of simmering. If it gets too thick, a splash of extra broth or milk can adjust the consistency. Remember, the filling thickens further once it cools, so don’t overdo it at this stage.

Flaky Crust Secrets

Using a refrigerated pie crust is perfect for saving time, but there are ways to enhance its flakiness. Make sure to handle the dough as little as possible to avoid toughening. When unrolling the crust, gently lay it in the pie plate without stretching it, which helps maintain its structure during baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even mix in a tablespoon of cold butter to the store-bought crust for added richness.

When assembling, don’t forget to cut slits in the top crust to let steam escape. This prevents the pie from becoming soggy and allows for a beautifully browned top. For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some sea salt over the egg wash before baking—this enhances the crust's flavor and gives it a rustic finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful pot pie experience:

For the Filling

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1 cup diced potatoes
1 small onion, diced
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crust

1 package refrigerated pie crusts
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Make sure you have everything ready before you start.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your pot pie:

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion in a bit of oil over medium heat until translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute. Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once thickened, mix in the chicken, peas, carrots, potatoes, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Fill with the chicken mixture, then cover with the second crust. Seal and cut slits in the top for ventilation.

Bake

Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Comfort Chicken Pot Pie!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding different vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli to the filling. You can also use leftover turkey or other proteins to personalize it to your taste.

Substitutions and Dietary Adjustments

This Comfort Chicken Pot Pie is incredibly versatile. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas. This adds protein while making it suitable for vegetarians. Additionally, gluten-free pie crusts are readily available, offering a delicious alternative for gluten-sensitive diners without sacrificing taste or texture.

Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. If you don’t have peas and carrots, frozen corn, diced bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms are fantastic substitutes that provide different flavors and textures. Just make sure to keep the total vegetable mixture around 2 cups for the best filling consistency.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to prevent excess moisture. When you're ready to enjoy, simply assemble the pie and bake as directed, extending the baking time a few minutes if the filling is still cold.

If you want to freeze the pie, assemble it unbaked and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, there's no need to thaw—just add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time and watch for that beautiful golden crust.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and crust separately and then assemble it right before baking.

→ Can I freeze the pot pie?

Absolutely! Assemble the pie but do not bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

→ What should I serve with chicken pot pie?

A simple green salad or some crusty bread pairs perfectly with the richness of the pot pie.

→ How do I know when the pot pie is done?

The crust should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbling at the edges.