Chicken pot pie: the epitome of comfort food. But the idea of making one from scratch can seem daunting. Fear not! This guide breaks down how to make a delicious chicken pot pie using the simplest approach, perfect for even the busiest weeknights. We'll focus on maximizing flavor while minimizing fuss.
Ingredients for the Easiest Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe prioritizes simplicity and uses readily available ingredients. You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand.
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For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is a game-changer!)
- 1 cup frozen peas and corn mix
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Crust (using store-bought for ultimate simplicity):
- 1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
Simple Steps to Chicken Pot Pie Perfection
This recipe focuses on ease and speed without sacrificing flavor. Let's get cooking!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the foundation of your pot pie's flavor.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
Add the shredded chicken, frozen peas and corn, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season generously with salt and pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the chicken mixture into a 9-inch pie plate. Carefully place the pie crust over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents a soggy bottom!
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Pot Pie
- Rotisserie chicken: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken drastically cuts down on prep time.
- Frozen vegetables: Frozen peas and corn are convenient and retain their texture well during baking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms.
- Leftovers: Chicken pot pie reheats beautifully!
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This simplified approach ensures you can enjoy a delicious, homemade chicken pot pie without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!
