Chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food – a creamy, savory concoction of tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a flaky crust. But who has time for hours of prep and oven time? This recipe leverages the magic of your slow cooker to deliver all the deliciousness with minimal effort. Get ready for a warm, satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening!
What Makes This Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Special?
This isn't your average crockpot chicken pot pie recipe. We've focused on delivering maximum flavor and texture while minimizing fuss. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become incredibly tender, and the vegetables retain their vibrant color and nutrients. The creamy sauce is rich and satisfying, and we offer suggestions for customizing it to your preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 (14.1 oz) can refrigerated pie crusts (or your favorite homemade recipe!)
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Start by searing the chicken breasts in olive oil until lightly browned on all sides. This step adds a depth of flavor that's hard to replicate otherwise. Alternatively, you can skip this and add the raw chicken directly to the crockpot.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot (or a separate one if you're not searing), sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery until softened. This enhances their sweetness and adds another layer of flavor to your pot pie.
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Combine in Crockpot: Add the seared (or raw) chicken, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, heavy cream, flour, butter, thyme, salt, and pepper to your slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
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Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
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Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If the sauce seems too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by removing about 1 cup of the mixture and whisking it with 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch before returning it to the crockpot and cooking for another 15 minutes.
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Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into a 9-inch pie dish. Top with your pie crust(s), crimping the edges to seal. You can cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
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Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a fantastic way to save time. Simply shred or chop it and add it to the slow cooker along with the vegetables.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Mushrooms, potatoes, green beans, and bell peppers would all be delicious additions.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pie crust or top the filling with a gluten-free biscuit or puff pastry alternative.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use less heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or even some unsweetened almond milk. You can also use low-sodium chicken broth and reduce the amount of butter.
Can I freeze this chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked chicken pot pie before baking. Assemble the pie as directed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding a few minutes to the baking time.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before baking, taste the filling and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme to your preference.
- Use a good quality pie crust: The crust is an important part of the chicken pot pie experience. Use a store-bought crust or invest some time in making your own from scratch for the best results.
This crockpot chicken pot pie recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic comfort food. Enjoy!
