How To Store Leftover Chicken Pot Pie: 3 Simple Tricks For A Tasty Treat!

Chicken pot pie is a hearty and comforting dish that can easily feed a crowd. But what happens when you have leftovers? Don’t despair! With proper storage techniques, you can enjoy your leftover chicken pot pie for days to come.

Refrigeration

Refrigeration is the most common method for storing leftover chicken pot pie. Here’s how to do it:

• Cool the pie: Let the pie cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This will prevent the pie from creating condensation in the refrigerator.
• Transfer to an airtight container: Place the pie in an airtight container to prevent air from entering and drying out the pie.
• Store in the refrigerator: Refrigerate the pie for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option for storing leftover chicken pot pie for longer periods. Here are the steps:

• Cool the pie: As with refrigeration, let the pie cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Portion the pie: Cut the pie into individual portions or slices for easier storage and reheating.
• Wrap the portions: Wrap each portion in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place in a freezer-safe container: Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months: Keep the pie frozen for up to 3 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Leftover Chicken Pot Pie

From the Refrigerator:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• Microwave: Microwave the pie in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

From the Freezer:

• Thaw overnight: Remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat as directed above: Once thawed, reheat the pie using the same methods described for reheating from the refrigerator.

Tips for Storing Leftover Chicken Pot Pie

• Use airtight containers: Always store leftover chicken pot pie in airtight containers to prevent spoilage and drying out.
• Cool before storing: Cooling the pie before storing will help prevent condensation in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Label and date: Label and date the containers to keep track of when the pie was stored.
• Freeze in portions: Freezing the pie in portions makes it easier to thaw and reheat only the amount you need.
• Avoid over-freezing: Freezing the pie for longer than 3 months can affect its texture and flavor.

How to Tell if Leftover Chicken Pot Pie is Bad

• Mold or growth: Discard the pie if you notice any mold or bacterial growth on the surface.
• Sour smell: If the pie has a sour or off smell, it’s best to discard it.
• Texture changes: The pie should have a creamy filling and a flaky crust. If the filling has become watery or the crust has become soggy, it’s likely spoiled.

Wrapping Up

Storing leftover chicken pot pie is easy with the right techniques. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your delicious pie for days or even months to come. Remember to cool the pie before storing, use airtight containers, and reheat thoroughly before eating. With proper storage, you can savor the flavors of your chicken pot pie without worrying about food safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I store chicken pot pie without the crust?
A: Yes, you can store the filling separately from the crust. Place the filling in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I reheat frozen chicken pot pie without overcooking the crust?
A: Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator. Then, wrap the crust in aluminum foil to prevent it from burning. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Q: Can I store chicken pot pie in a glass container?
A: Yes, you can store chicken pot pie in a glass container, but make sure it has a tight-fitting lid. Glass containers are not as airtight as plastic containers, so the pie may dry out more quickly.