Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food, and using a Pillsbury pie crust makes it even easier to achieve that perfectly flaky, golden-brown topping. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor and ease, resulting in a dish that's both delicious and impressive. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you create a memorable chicken pot pie using Pillsbury's ready-made crust.
What Makes This Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Special?
This recipe isn't just about throwing ingredients together; it's about building layers of flavor. We'll focus on creating a rich, savory chicken filling that's bursting with vegetables and seasoned perfectly. The use of high-quality ingredients, combined with a few simple techniques, elevates this dish beyond your average pot pie. We'll also explore variations and answer common questions to ensure your culinary success.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
For the Crust:
- 1 package (14.1 ounces) Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts (two crusts)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides, then remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
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Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, peas, and corn. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness.
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Assemble the Pie: Pour the chicken filling into a 9-inch pie plate. Top with one Pillsbury pie crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving. You can use the second pie crust to create decorative cutouts for the top if you are feeling creative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time. Just shred or cube it and add it to the filling in step 5.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables! Mushrooms, potatoes, and green beans are all excellent additions. Just be sure to add them along with the carrots and celery in step 2, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake the pie just before serving for the best results.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Pre-baking the bottom crust for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling can help prevent a soggy bottom. You can also brush the bottom crust with a little egg wash before adding the filling.
Can I freeze this chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked chicken pot pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Add about 15 minutes to the baking time.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying chicken pot pie experience. The ease of using Pillsbury's ready-made crust allows you to focus on creating a flavorful and impressive dish, perfect for a family dinner or a potluck. Enjoy!
