Chicken Pot Pie Bake
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Cozy up with this comforting Chicken Pot Pie Bake, a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky golden crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe delivers classic pot pie flavors in a delightful bake that’s sure to please. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal everyone will love.
This Chicken Pot Pie Bake is a twist on the classic dish, offering a quick and easy solution for a comforting meal. With its tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy sauce all encased in a flaky crust, it's a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction.
A Cozy Classic with a Twist
Chicken pot pie is a beloved staple in many homes, cherished for its warmth and satisfying flavors. This Chicken Pot Pie Bake offers a delightful twist on the traditional dish by simplifying the preparation process while retaining all the comforting elements. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce ensures that every bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
What sets this recipe apart is its ease of preparation. Using refrigerated pie crusts means you can skip the time-consuming task of making dough from scratch, allowing you to whip up this delectable meal even on your busiest days. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Healthy Ingredients for a Wholesome Meal
Packed with nutritious ingredients, the Chicken Pot Pie Bake not only satisfies your cravings but also supports a balanced diet. The inclusion of fresh carrots, peas, and celery provides essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish as wholesome as it is hearty. Using cooked chicken further enhances its nutritional profile, offering a generous source of lean protein.
You can easily customize this recipe to incorporate seasonal vegetables or those you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable. Whether using fresh or frozen veggies, you’ll achieve a colorful and appealing dish that nourishes both body and soul.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
One of the many advantages of the Chicken Pot Pie Bake is its suitability for meal preparation. Preparing this dish ahead of time can save you valuable time during busy weekdays. Simply assemble the filling and cover it with the crust, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to bake.
Leftovers from this comforting bake can be easily reheated, ensuring that you enjoy the delightful flavors even days later. Store any extras in airtight containers, and simply pop them in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes just as good the second time around.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery over medium heat until soft. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Add Chicken and Sauce
Mix in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer until the sauce thickens.
Assemble the Pie
Pour the filling into a baking dish and cover it with the pie crust. Cut slits into the top for steam to escape.
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
For an unforgettable dining experience, consider pairing your Chicken Pot Pie Bake with fresh sides. A crisp garden salad complements the richness of the pot pie beautifully, providing a pleasing contrast in textures and flavors. Light dressings with a citrus twist can brighten the meal and enhance the overall taste.
Another excellent accompaniment is garlic bread or crusty rolls, allowing you to soak up the delicious sauce left at the bottom of your baking dish. These sides together create a well-rounded meal that will satisfy both family and guests alike.
Storing and Reheating Tips
For optimal storage, allow the Chicken Pot Pie Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last up to 3-4 days. If you choose to freeze it, make sure to wrap it tightly, as this will help prevent freezer burn and keep the flavors intact.
When it’s time to reheat, gently warm the pot pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring that the crust remains crisp. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave is a viable option, but for the best texture, the oven is recommended.
Ingredient Substitutions
Adaptability is key in the kitchen, and the Chicken Pot Pie Bake allows for numerous ingredient substitutions without sacrificing its deliciousness. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cream or milk alternatives. Additionally, rotisserie chicken can serve as a fantastic time-saving substitute for cooked chicken.
For a vegetarian option, simply replace the chicken with your choice of hearty vegetables or plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This ensures that every dietary preference can enjoy a comforting plate of Chicken Pot Pie Bake.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work great in this recipe.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pot pie, then refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Chicken Pot Pie Bake
Cozy up with this comforting Chicken Pot Pie Bake, a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich creamy sauce, all topped with a flaky golden crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe delivers classic pot pie flavors in a delightful bake that’s sure to please. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal everyone will love.
Created by: Brianna Tate
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6.0
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cream
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery over medium heat until soft. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
Mix in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, cream, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer until the sauce thickens.
Pour the filling into a baking dish and cover it with the pie crust. Cut slits into the top for steam to escape.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g