The Easiest Way To Make Chicken Pot Pie Using Pie Crust – A Step-by-step Guide!

Chicken pot pie, a comforting classic, is a culinary masterpiece that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a flaky, golden crust. If you’re eager to create this delectable dish in your own kitchen, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the filling to baking the pie to perfection.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 sheet of pie crust

Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, brown the chicken breast over medium heat. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, celery, and carrots until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the Roux: Whisk the flour into the vegetables and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Assemble the Pie

1. Return the Chicken: Add the chicken back to the skillet and stir to combine.
2. Add Peas and Parsley: Stir in the peas and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer to a Pie Dish: Pour the filling into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Top with Pie Crust: Unroll the pie crust and place it over the filling. Trim the edges and crimp to seal.

Bake the Pie

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Egg Wash: Brush the crust with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water).
3. Bake: Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
4. Let Cool: Allow the pie to cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Perfect Pie Crust Techniques

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keep your ingredients cold to prevent the butter from melting and creating a tough crust.
• Cut the Butter into Small Pieces: This will help create even distribution and flakiness.
• Handle the Dough Minimally: Overworking the dough can make it tough.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn.
• Meat: Use turkey, beef, or pork instead of chicken.
• Crust: You can use a homemade or store-bought crust. If using a store-bought crust, follow the package instructions for baking.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overfill the Pie: Leave about 1 inch of space around the edges to prevent overflow.
• Check the Filling: Before baking, make sure the filling is not too thick or thin. Adjust the consistency with additional broth or flour as needed.
• Serve with Sides: Accompany your chicken pot pie with a side of green salad, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

A Culinary Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Homemade Pie

Creating a chicken pot pie using pie crust is a rewarding culinary experience. By following these steps and embracing the techniques mentioned, you can impress your family and friends with a comforting and delicious meal. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on this culinary adventure today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience. Simply remove the meat and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Q: How do I know when the filling is done simmering?
A: The filling should be thickened and bubbly. If it’s too thin, cook for a few more minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth.

Q: Can I make the pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the pie up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven before serving.