Best Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Introduction
There is something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of chicken pot pie. It is that one dish that instantly brings back memories of cozy dinners, family gatherings, and the smell of something delicious baking in the oven. Chicken pot pie is more than just a recipe. It is a classic comfort food that has stood the test of time. The combination of a golden flaky crust and a creamy filling packed with tender chicken and colorful vegetables makes it one of the most loved homemade meals across generations.
Unlike store-bought versions that often lack freshness or flavor, a homemade chicken pot pie gives you complete control over the ingredients. You know exactly what is going into your meal. That means you can make it healthier, more flavorful, and perfectly suited to your family’s preferences. Whether you are making it from scratch for the first time or looking to improve your usual method, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. You will find a complete ingredient list with calorie breakdown, simple step-by-step instructions, easy tips to personalize it, and ideas on how to serve it.
By the end of this article, you will have a go-to recipe that tastes amazing, feels homemade in every bite, and is sure to become a regular part of your cooking routine.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients for this chicken pot pie are simple pantry staples that you likely already have at home. They come together to create a creamy, flavorful filling wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. Here is everything you need.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (shredded) | 2 cups | 330 |
| Carrots (diced) | 1 cup | 52 |
| Celery (diced) | 1 cup | 16 |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup | 117 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium (1 cup) | 44 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 9 |
| Butter | 1/3 cup (about 5 tbsp) | 543 |
| All-purpose flour | 1/3 cup | 150 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | 30 |
| Whole milk or cream | 1 cup | 146 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | 3 |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 teaspoon | 1 |
| Pie crust (top and bottom) | 2 9-inch crusts | 800 |
Total Estimated Calories for Entire Pie: 2241
Calories Per Serving (1/6 slice): 373
These amounts and calories are estimates and may vary based on the brands you use and any substitutions you make. But this gives you a good general idea of what to expect in terms of nutrition.
Read More: Easy Chicken Potpie Crescent Rolls
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making chicken pot pie from scratch might sound complicated, but it is actually quite simple once you break it down. Follow these steps and you will have a beautiful homemade pie ready to enjoy.
Start by placing a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Once melted, stir in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Let these cook for about 6 to 8 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Now add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes. This forms a thick base for your creamy filling. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly. This will help prevent any lumps. Add the milk next and continue stirring until the mixture thickens. This usually takes 4 to 5 minutes.
Now add the cooked shredded chicken, peas, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix everything together until fully combined. Let the filling simmer for a couple of minutes. Once it looks creamy and thick, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the filling is cooling, line a 9-inch pie dish with the bottom pie crust. Press it gently into the dish and make sure it reaches all the edges.
Spoon the filling into the pie crust and spread it out evenly. Cover with the top crust. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie. Use a knife to cut a few small slits in the top crust. This allows steam to escape while baking.
Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You want the crust to turn a beautiful golden brown. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.
Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Read More: Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about homemade chicken pot pie is how easily you can adapt it to suit your needs. Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to try something new, here are a few ideas.
Use rotisserie chicken if you want to save time. It is already cooked and full of flavor. You can also swap the chicken for turkey, especially after the holidays. If you are vegetarian, skip the meat entirely and load up on extra vegetables like mushrooms, corn, green beans, or sweet potatoes.
Try using puff pastry instead of traditional pie crust for a flakier texture. If you are avoiding dairy, substitute the milk with oat milk or almond milk and use plant-based butter. Want to make it gluten-free? Use a gluten-free flour blend for the filling and gluten-free pie crust.
You can also add more seasoning based on your taste. A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce adds a fun twist. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can give the dish a garden-fresh flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here is a breakdown of the nutrients in one slice of chicken pot pie when divided into six servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 373 |
| Protein | 19g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Sugar | 4g |
This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own. It provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. If you want to reduce the calorie content, consider using a single crust or lighter dairy alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken pot pie is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the creamy filling. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus.
For a lighter option, try a bowl of soup like tomato or butternut squash on the side. Fresh fruit or a light dessert such as lemon sorbet also makes a nice finish. If you’re entertaining, serve this pie with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay or even a sparkling apple cider for a cozy touch.
Read More: Homemade Chicken Biscuit Casserole
Conclusion
Homemade chicken pot pie is one of those recipes that brings everyone to the table. It is rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Making it from scratch allows you to customize it exactly the way you want while keeping things wholesome and delicious.
With a flaky golden crust and a savory filling full of chicken and vegetables, this pie is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or just a quiet night in. Once you try it, you will see how easy it is to make comfort food that tastes even better than it looks.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy the best chicken pot pie you have ever made. This is more than just a meal. It is a moment of comfort and connection that you can come back to again and again.