Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

What Makes This Chicken Pot Pie Easy?

Chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food—flaky crust, creamy filling, and tender chicken and vegetables. But often, it’s thought of as a labor-intensive dish. What makes this version easy is how simple it is to prepare without sacrificing flavor.

First, we skip the homemade pie crust, which can be time-consuming and tricky for beginners. Instead, we use store-bought puff pastry or refrigerated pie crusts that bake up just as golden and crispy, saving both time and effort. The filling is equally streamlined—cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and a quick, flavorful gravy made from pantry staples like chicken broth and cream. There’s no need for complicated roux or thickening agents—just a bit of flour to give the filling that perfect creamy texture.

In addition, using rotisserie chicken cuts down on prep time significantly. You get tender, flavorful chicken without having to cook it from scratch. By keeping the ingredients simple and using shortcuts like pre-cooked chicken and store-bought crust, you can have a comforting homemade chicken pot pie ready to serve in less than an hour.

This easy chicken pot pie brings all the comfort with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Pot Pie

Making a delicious chicken pot pie doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are a few tips and tricks to elevate your pot pie game and ensure it turns out perfectly every time:

1. Use Quality Filling
   For a rich, flavorful filling, use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken. It’s a huge time-saver and adds great flavor without the need for extra seasoning.
2. Don’t Overfill the Pie
   While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can cause the crust to burst during baking. Keep the filling level just below the top of the pie dish for a secure crust.
3. Add a Touch of Fresh Herbs
   Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor of the filling. Add them to the sauce just before the filling is ready to be added to the pie.
4. Make Sure the Filling is Thick
   The filling should be creamy but thick enough to hold its shape when served. If it’s too runny, the crust may get soggy. To thicken, simmer the mixture until it reaches a gravy-like consistency before adding to the crust.
5. Brush the Crust with Egg Wash
   For a golden, glossy finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a little water). It adds a professional touch and a beautiful color.

Swaps and Substitutions for Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is highly customizable, so if you’re missing an ingredient or prefer a different flavor profile, don’t worry! Here are some easy swaps and substitutions to make your pot pie just the way you like it:

1. Meat Alternatives
   If you’re not a fan of chicken or want to try something new, turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover beef stew meat can make great substitutes. For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or potatoes.
2. Dairy-Free Option
   To make the filling dairy-free, replace the cream or milk with coconut milk, almond milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative. Vegan butter can replace regular butter for a fully plant-based version.
3. Crust Variations
   If you prefer a lighter crust, opt for phyllo dough or puff pastry instead of the typical pie crust. For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free pie crusts or make a simple biscuit topping instead of the traditional crust.
4. Vegetable Substitutions
   Frozen peas and carrots are common, but feel free to mix in any vegetables you prefer, like green beans, corn, or parsnips.
5. Herb Variations
   Try fresh herbs like sage, dill, or oregano to change up the flavor profile, or use a blend of dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available.

These swaps make the dish more versatile and adaptable to any dietary preference or ingredient availability.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat Chicken Pot Pie?

Reheating chicken pot pie can be tricky, especially if you want to maintain that perfectly flaky crust and creamy filling. Here are the best methods to ensure your leftovers taste just as good as the first time you made it:

1. Oven Method (Best for Texture)
   The oven is the best way to retain that crispy, golden crust while reheating the filling evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pot pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to allow the top crust to crisp up again. Check to ensure the filling is hot and bubbly before serving.
2. Microwave Method (Quick and Easy)
   If you’re in a rush, the microwave can work, though it won’t keep the crust as crisp. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium for about 2–3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it’s heated evenly.
3. Air Fryer Method (For a Crispy Crust)
   For a crispier result without using the oven, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes, checking to make sure the crust doesn’t burn.

Make Chicken Pot Pie Ahead of Time

One of the best things about chicken pot pie is how easily it can be made ahead of time, saving you precious minutes when it’s time to eat. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or planning a special dinner, here’s how to make it in advance:

1. Assemble and Refrigerate
   Prepare the chicken pot pie as you normally would, including the filling and crust. Once assembled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 1-2 days before baking. This gives the flavors time to meld together.
2. Freeze for Longer Storage
   For longer storage, you can freeze an unbaked chicken pot pie. After assembling, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake, no need to thaw—just add about 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
3. Reheat After Baking
   If you’ve already baked the pie, it can be reheated by covering it with foil and warming it in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.

Making your pot pie ahead of time means less work later and more time to enjoy your meal!

More Savory Pie Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re a fan of chicken pot pie, you’ll love these other savory pie recipes that bring comfort and flavor to your table. Each one is a delicious twist on the classic and perfect for cozy meals or family gatherings.

1. Beef and Guinness Pie
   A rich, hearty beef stew with tender chunks of beef, carrots, and onions simmered in a flavorful Guinness stout sauce. Topped with a golden, flaky pie crust, this savory pie is the ultimate winter comfort food.
2. Shepherd’s Pie
   A classic dish made with ground lamb (or beef) and vegetables, all topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes. It’s a satisfying and budget-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
3. Vegetable Pot Pie
   For a lighter, vegetarian alternative, swap the meat for a medley of seasonal vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, peas, and carrots, all in a creamy sauce. It’s comforting, wholesome, and perfect for meatless meals.
4. Turkey and Cranberry Pie
   A delicious way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey! This savory pie pairs turkey with a creamy sauce and a hint of cranberry for a festive, comforting dish.
5. Ham and Cheese Pie
   Layers of smoky ham and melty cheese, all enclosed in a buttery pie crust. This simple yet flavorful pie is great for brunch or lunch.

Easy Chicken Pot Pie

When you’re craving comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, an easy chicken pot pie is the answer. This recipe is a quick and simple version of the classic, with all the flavor and none of the fuss. By using store-bought pie crust or puff pastry, rotisserie chicken, and frozen vegetables, you can have a hearty, homemade meal ready in about 40 minutes.

Start by making the creamy filling: sauté onions and garlic in butter, then add flour to thicken the mixture. Pour in chicken broth and cream, stirring until smooth and thickened. Add the chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and seasonings. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—just stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.

Once the filling is ready, pour it into a prepared pie crust, top with another layer of dough, and crimp the edges. Brush the top with an egg wash to ensure a golden finish. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, until the crust is golden and flaky.

Serve this delicious, no-fuss chicken pot pie with a side of fresh greens or mashed potatoes for a meal everyone will love.

Ingredients

To make a quick and delicious chicken pot pie, gather these simple ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked chicken (shredded or cubed) – Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this!
• 1 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the vegetables
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds flavor to the filling
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an aromatic base
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – To thicken the sauce
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth – The base of your creamy filling
• 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich, smooth texture
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans) – Quick and easy way to add veggies
• 1 teaspoon salt – To taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Classic herb for pot pie
• 1 sheet store-bought pie crust or puff pastry – For a golden, flaky crust
• 1 egg – For egg wash to brush on top of the crust (optional)

This list of ingredients keeps things simple, quick, and delicious while still delivering the creamy, comforting texture everyone loves in chicken pot pie.

Method

1. Preheat and Prep
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare your pie dish by lightly greasing it or using parchment paper. If you’re using refrigerated pie crusts, roll out the bottom crust and place it in the pie dish.
2. Make the Filling
   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring, followed by the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Add the Chicken and Veggies
   Stir in the cooked chicken and frozen mixed vegetables, along with the salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to heat everything through.
4. Assemble the Pie
   Pour the filling into the prepared pie dish. Top with the second sheet of pie crust or puff pastry. Crimp the edges to seal, and make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with egg wash for a golden finish.
5. Bake
   Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and flaky. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, beef, or even ham. For a vegetarian version, try adding more vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or cauliflower in place of the meat.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pot pie and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. If frozen, bake straight from the freezer, adding about 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes, you can use puff pastry, phyllo dough, or even biscuit dough as a crust alternative. Each will give a different texture, but they all work wonderfully with the creamy filling.

4. How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
To avoid a soggy bottom, you can pre-bake the bottom crust (also known as blind baking) for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. Additionally, make sure the filling is thickened properly before pouring it into the crust.

5. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the filling to ensure the pot pie cooks evenly.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Pot Pie is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With minimal prep, a handful of simple ingredients, and a golden, flaky crust, you can create a dish that feels like a special occasion meal but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. The creamy filling, packed with tender chicken and vegetables, is made even easier by using rotisserie chicken and frozen vegetables—two ingredients that save time without compromising flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner for a busy weeknight or a dish to prep ahead for later, this recipe offers flexibility and delicious results. Plus, the ability to customize the filling, swap out meats, or change the crust means you can make it your own every time.

Serve this hearty pot pie with a side salad or some mashed potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please the whole family and keep you coming back for seconds. So, the next time you want something simple, hearty, and satisfying, try this easy chicken pot pie—it’s a guaranteed hit!