👨‍🍳 Individual Chicken Pot Pie Recipe – Bake & Enjoy

by | Jul 3, 2024 | Chicken Pot Recipes, Chicken Recipes

Ever thought about why individual meals are so fulfilling? Take this chicken pot pie, for example. It’s just the right size for one, letting you enjoy every bite. Whether it’s a night in with friends or a quiet evening alone, this treat is perfect. It brings the warmth of a family favorite to your plate, topped with the charm of being your own.

Valentina Ablaev’s recipe for chicken pot pie has won hearts with 208 rave reviews, all rating it a perfect 5 stars. You’ll be amazed at how fast you can make this tasty pie. It takes just 5 minutes to get ready and 15 minutes in the oven. And by the time you lay the table, it’s ready to serve four hungry folks.

Key Takeaways:

  • Personalized meals like single serving chicken pot pie enhance dining experiences.
  • Valentina Ablaev’s recipe is quick and easy with only 20 minutes required in total.
  • Perfect for both cozy seasons and personal gatherings.
  • Recipe serves four people, providing control over portion sizes.
  • Averages a stellar 5-star rating with 208 reviews.

Introduction to Individual Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Mini chicken pot pies are not just cute; they are also a smart way to enjoy a classic. This individual chicken pot pie recipe refreshes comfort food. It makes it great for either weekday meals or big events.

This recipe makes 8 mini chicken pot pies. It’s perfect for those who love comfort food. Adults usually eat 2 or 3 of them. They take just 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake. This makes it fit easily into any busy schedule.

The secret to their great taste is simple. You use cooked chicken, creamy soup, sour cream, veggies, and crescent rolls. These all come together for a tasty, creamy center and a crispy, golden crust.

Did you know that pot pies started in Greece? Now, they’re a big hit in America. This recipe keeps all the goodness from its ancient roots. It includes a creamy sauce, chicken, and lots of veggies.

This individual chicken pot pie recipe is so handy. You can make the fillings a few days ahead. Also, you can freeze the pies before baking. This means a delicious meal is always within reach.

Mini chicken pot pies are perfect for any occasion. They make a warm night or a fancy dinner better. Enjoy the classic pot pie in your own special way with this recipe.

Ingredients for the Filling

Making the perfect filling is key to a great chicken pot pie. Mix tender chicken, fresh veggies, and tasty spices. This creates a wonderful homemade pie.

Chicken and Vegetables

At the core of a chicken pot pie are its key players – chicken and veggies. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 lb of poached or roasted chicken, shredded or chopped
  • 16 oz package of Kings Brand Frozen Mixed Vegetables
  • 1 cup of chopped onions
  • 1 cup of diced carrots
  • 1 cup of diced zucchini
  • 1 cup of peas

Spices and Seasonings

The right spices take a chicken pot pie from good to great. These additions give your pie flavor:

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley

Mixing these spices makes your pot pie taste amazing. So have fun cooking. You’ll soon enjoy a delicious pie.

Ingredient Quantity
Shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast 1 lb
Kings Brand Frozen Mixed Vegetables 16 oz
Chopped onions 1 cup
Diced carrots 1 cup
Diced zucchini 1 cup
Peas 1 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon
Dried rosemary 1/4 teaspoon
Minced garlic 1 tablespoon
Chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons
Rating 3.65 out of 5 based on 53 votes

Preparing the Chicken Filling

Starting the best homemade chicken pot pie means getting the chicken filling right. First, you need to cook the veggies and make a thick, creamy sauce. This part is key to an easy and tasty pot pie.

Cooking the Vegetables

First, sauté the veggies. Melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add in 1 medium chopped yellow onion, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 3 chopped stalks of celery, and 3 sliced carrots when the butter bubbles. Saute them until soft, for about 10 minutes. Keep stirring to cook them evenly without burning.

Creating the Sauce

Now, it’s time to make the sauce. Sprinkle ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour over the veggies and stir to make a roux. When the roux turns a light gold, slowly add 2 ¾ cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Let it thicken for 5 minutes, then mix in ½ cup of heavy cream for a creamy finish.

To make it even better, add ⅓ cup of Cognac, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of white pepper. For more flavor, toss in 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme. Finally, add the chicken and peas, stirring well. Let the filling cool a bit. This helps the pastry bake right and make your pot pies perfect.

homemade chicken pot pie

Follow these steps for a delicious and thick chicken pot pie filling. Making this easy chicken pot pie recipe will warm up your dinners at home. Enjoy the meal and the cozy night in!

Homemade Biscuit Topping

Elevate your favorite mini chicken pie with a special homemade biscuit topping. It adds more flavor and a wonderful texture. This pairs perfectly with the savory pie filling.

Essential Biscuit Ingredients

You need a few specific items to make the best biscuit topping. Here’s what you should have ready:

  • 2 cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon of baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
  • 6 tablespoons of very cold salted butter
  • 3/4 cup of whole milk

Steps to Make Biscuits

Let me guide you on creating the perfect biscuits for your pot pies:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 425 degrees.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
  3. Grate and Mix the Butter: Grate the cold butter into the mix. Blend until it looks like coarse crumbs.
  4. Add the Milk: Then, add the milk and stir just until a dough forms.
  5. Shape the Biscuits: Put the dough on a floured surface. Knead and roll it. Cut the biscuits with a cutter.
  6. Bake: Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes. They should be golden and fully baked.

Follow these steps for awesome biscuit-topped pot pies. They’ll get a taste and texture that everyone loves. With nearly perfect reviews by 312 people, these treats are bound to be a hit!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Dishes

Having your kitchen and oven ready is key to making a tasty chicken pot pie. Just follow a few steps to make your meal perfect.

Setting the Oven

First, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure your pie looks and tastes great. Wait until the oven is at the right temp before you put the pies in.

Individual Pot Pie Dishes

Getting your baking dishes ready is very important. Use things like glass or SouperCubes for each pot pie. It helps make sure everything cooks well.

  • Filling: Divide the chicken filling between the dishes.
  • Biscuit Topping: Put biscuit dough over the filling, spreading it out evenly.

After your oven is hot and your dishes are set, put everything on a baking sheet. Bake for 50-55 minutes. Look for golden tops and bubbly filling to know they’re ready.

Assembly of Individual Chicken Pot Pie

Making the perfect mini chicken pie recipe is an art. It involves carefully layering ingredients and topping them with biscuits. This ensures every bite is a tasty adventure.

Layering the Filling

First, add the chicken and vegetable mix into each dish. This mix includes:

  • 3-4 cups of shredded cooked chicken from a rotisserie chicken
  • 3 cups of fresh cut green beans
  • 2 cups of sliced carrots cut into ¼-inch rounds
  • ½ cup of heavy cream
  • 3 & ½ cups of low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced

Make sure to spread the mixture evenly. Even distribution means it cooks well and tastes great. It’s crucial for a top-notch mini chicken pie recipe.

Adding the Biscuit Topping

Next, cover the dishes with biscuit dough. You’ll need the following for this step:

  • 2 packages of frozen puff pastry, defrosted
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour for dusting

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. It should be about 1/4-inch thick. Cut it to fit your dish tops, ensuring good coverage. Use an egg wash for a nice, golden finish when baked.

Layering the filling and topping it right keeps your mini chicken pie tender and flavorful. Stick to these methods for a picture-perfect single serving chicken pie. Its flaky, golden crust will dazzle your table.

Ingredient Quantity
Shredded Cooked Chicken 3-4 cups
Fresh Cut Green Beans 3 cups
Sliced Carrots 2 cups
Heavy Cream ½ cup
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth 3 & ½ cups
Diced Yellow Onion 1 medium
Frozen Puff Pastry 2 packages
Egg for Egg Wash 1
All-Purpose Flour 1/3 cup

Cooking Time and Techniques

Cooking a perfect homemade chicken pot pie needs focus, especially when baking it. The right cooking time and techniques make it tasty and look good.

Baking Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for your easy chicken pot pie recipe. You can bake individual 4-inch pies or a 9-inch one on a baking sheet to catch spills. It takes about 45 minutes to bake the pies.

If the filling’s too thick, add more chicken stock to make it just right.

Baking them further for 18-22 minutes gets the crust golden and the filling bubbly. Once the crust is golden and crisp, they’re done. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes so the sauce thickens before you serve them.

Size Baking Time Temperature
Individual 4-inch 18-22 minutes 350°F (175°C)
9-inch pie 18-22 minutes 350°F (175°C)

Finishing Touches

Here are some tips to make your chicken pot pie even better. After baking, brush melted butter on the pies for extra richness. Chopping and sprinkling fresh chives on the crust adds great taste and looks.

Let the pies rest after baking. This sets the filling, making them easier to serve and enjoy every bite.

Alternative Ingredients and Variations

Chicken pot pie is a favorite, but it may not fit all diet restrictions. We share how to make it dairy-free and gluten-free without losing the great taste. These changes make sure all can savor this comfort dish.

Substitutions for Dairy-Free Diets

For dairy-free diets, swap out the milk and butter. Unsweetened almond milk keeps the sauce creamy. And, Earth Balance makes a great, dairy-free butter.

Ditch the usual pie crust for a dairy-free one. You can buy one or make your own using dairy-free butter and almond milk. These changes keep the pie rich and comforting.

For more tips, check out this healthy chicken pot pie recipe. It offers great advice for going dairy-free.

Gluten-Free Options

Making a gluten-free pot pie involves some swaps but it’s not hard. Use a gluten-free flour blend to maintain the sauce’s texture. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill have good options.

If you use breadcrumbs, choose gluten-free panko or make your own with gluten-free bread. The pie crust is important too. Many brands offer gluten-free crusts, or you can find recipes to make your own.

Going gluten-free doesn’t mean missing out on flavor. Every bite will be as tasty as the original. For more ideas, take a look at this crustless chicken pot pie recipe.

Here are the main swaps for a dairy-free and gluten-free chicken pot pie:

Type Traditional Ingredient Alternative Notes
Dairy-Free Regular Milk Almond Milk Use unsweetened
Dairy-Free Butter Earth Balance Or another dairy-free brand
Gluten-Free Flour Gluten-Free Flour Blend Bob’s Red Mill, King Arthur
Gluten-Free Panko Breadcrumbs Gluten-Free Panko Or homemade gluten-free crumbs

With these easy changes, you can have a tasty chicken pot pie that’s still comforting. Try this lazy girl chicken pot pie recipe. It’s simple and fits all dietary needs, so everyone can enjoy.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storing chicken pot pie well means keeping the filling tasty and the crust crisp. Let your pie cool to room temperature first. Then, wrap it tightly in both plastic and foil. This helps the pie stay fresh. For even longer storage, freeze it. It can keep for 4-6 months this way.

storing chicken pot pie

Freezing chicken pot pie before baking it keeps the crust crispy and the filling flavorful. For tips on a freezer-friendly pot pie, check out this recipe.

There are several good ways to reheat chicken pot pie:

  • Convection Oven: It evenly reheats food best. Set the oven to 325°F. Heat the pie for about 15 minutes to avoid it being too hot or too cold.
  • Microwave: If you’re in a rush, this is a fast option. For the best results, warm up small portions. This takes 3-4 minutes on high, but you may need to adjust if your microwave is different. Find out more about reheating chicken pot pie here.
  • Air Fryer: Use this method for a dry heat that heats food evenly. Preheat the air fryer to 365°F and heat the pie for 5-8 minutes.
  • Instant Pot: This is a unique way that makes the pie similar to chicken and dumplings if you add more broth.
  • Toaster Oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 380-400°F. Cut small slits in the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes.

Another option is using a stovetop:

  • Stovetop: Warm a cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Then, gently heat the pie. Give it a quick broil to make the top crust crispy.

If you want more advice on preserving and reheating chicken pot pie, these tips will make your meal taste just as good as when it was first made.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Individual Chicken Pot Pies goes better with suitable sides and drinks. It balances the meal for a great dining moment. Discover some great side dishes and drink options for your pot pies.

Side Dishes to Complement

It’s essential to match the rich pot pie with lighter sides. Here are a few that work well:

  • Lemon Kale Salad: A zesty salad with fresh kale, lemon vinaigrette, and parmesan. It cuts through pot pie’s creaminess well.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and peppers, lightly roasted, add great flavor.
  • Steamed Green Beans: Green beans steamed with olive oil and lemon juice offer a refreshing crunch.
  • Cauliflower Mash: A healthier twist on mashed potatoes, this pairs great with pot pie.

Beverages

Choose drinks that complement your pot pie. Try these options:

  • White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc balances the rich taste of the pie.
  • Herbal Tea: A warm chamomile or mint tea is soothing and goes well with the meal.
  • Iced Tea: Enjoy a cold glass of iced tea with a touch of lemon.
  • Cider: Hard or non-alcoholic cider offers a sweet counter to the pie’s flavors.

Why Choose Individual Pot Pie Dishes

Choosing individual pot pie dishes has many benefits. One key advantage is portion control. Each dish is the right size, so you won’t eat too much.

They let you cater to everyone’s dietary needs. You can make them gluten-free or dairy-free. This makes them great for parties where people have different diets.

Aesthetic appeal is a big plus. They look beautiful on the table. Guests will be impressed by the golden crust on a small pot pie.

They’re also easy to freeze and reheat. Their small size is perfect for busy days. You can enjoy a fresh meal every time you reheat them.

Using ramekins makes portion control even easier. You can adjust recipes to fit different sizes. Soup crocks with handles make serving safe and easy.

Baking them on a sheet avoids messes in the oven. The benefits of individual pot pie dishes cover many areas. They add beauty to meals, cater to different diets, and are easy to handle. This makes eating fun and stress-free.

Benefits Description
Portion Control Ensures uniform servings and prevents overindulgence.
Dietary Customization Accommodates various dietary needs and preferences.
Aesthetic Appeal Adds elegance and visual charm to meals.
Convenient Freezing & Reheating Perfect for quick, go-to meals and maintains food quality.
Ease of Handling Using ramekins or crocks with handles makes serving safe and simple.

History and Origins of Chicken Pot Pie

The traditional pot pie origins date back to medieval Europe. There, they started the idea of putting a filling in a pastry crust. Pot pies have changed over time and are now eaten all over the world. In England, they became very popular during King Henry VIII’s time. This was in the 16th century. People used pot pies to mix different meats and vegetables into one tasty dish.

In the United States, the chicken pot pie history began with the Moravian Church group. They started having chicken pie dinners to raise money around 1920. These dinners did more than bring the community together. They also helped pay for church upgrades, like better kitchens and halls.

Traditional Moravian chicken pie is simple. It has only chicken and thick broth under a crispy crust. At the Kingswood United Methodist Church in Rural Hall, volunteers make 180 to 200 pies in six hours. They sell about 600 pies each year to help the church. The Hopewell Moravian Church has used chicken pie sales to pay for a quarter of their new Christian Life Center.

Places like Salem Kitchen and Mrs. Pumpkin’s bakery have also started making these pies. They make a big impact with their Moravian chicken pies. For example, Salem Kitchen’s Moravian Chicken Pie, with a special chicken cutout on top, is a favorite. Mrs. Pumpkin’s can make 800 pies at once now. They started as a small family operation and became a known bakery.

Today, restaurants like Hutch & Harris in Winston-Salem have their own versions of Moravian chicken pie. They put sage gravy on top of mashed potatoes. This shows that pot pies are still popular. They can be made in many ways to fit different diets, like vegetarian or gluten-free.

Over the years, pot pies have been called different names in various cultures. These names include “meat pies,” “cottage pie,” “shepherd’s pie,” and “empanada.” The name “pot pie” probably came from the Pennsylvania Dutch term “bot boi.” Now, a classic pot pie usually has leftover chicken, veggies, cream sauce, and a flaky crust. It’s a warm, familiar dish that can include many favorite foods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Individual Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Making individual chicken pot pies can feel tough at first. We’re here to make it clear and give great tips. This guide is for every chef at home.

  • How can I tell if my chicken pot pie is fully cooked? Your pie should reach 165°F inside. Make sure the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. A knife or toothpick in the center should come out hot.
  • What are some tips for preventing a soggy bottom crust? Bake the bottom crust alone before filling it.
  • What are effective ways to thicken the pot pie filling? You could use a roux or a cornstarch mix. Remember, cornstarch thickens more, so use less if you switch.
  • How to reheat leftover chicken pot pie? Warm it in the oven at 325°F for 20 to 30 minutes. Cover it with foil to keep the crust crispy.
  • Can I make pot pies ahead of time and freeze them? Yes, you can freeze them unbaked for three months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before baking.
  • What are some recommended ingredient substitutions for dietary needs?
    • Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk instead of cream. Make sure to cook a bit longer for the same texture.
    • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free mix for the crust. For thickening the filling, use cornstarch.
  • Why use boneless, skinless chicken thighs? They add more taste and are often cheaper than breast meat.
  • How long can I leave out a chicken pot pie? Don’t leave it out for over two hours. This stops harmful bacteria from growing.

Getting your chicken pot pie right is all about the best steps and ingredients. Whether it’s the dreamy filling or the crispy crust, we’re here to help. Enjoy your baking!

Conclusion

Making chicken pot pie at home is a joy. You get to enjoy a classic dish and add your own twist. This way, every bite shows off your cooking style. The mix has cooked chicken, celery, carrots, and potatoes under a flaky biscuit layer. It’s all made with love.

You can make two pies with this recipe. Eat one right away and keep the other for later. It’s great for busy nights when you need warm, tasty food. This recipe is perfect for feeding a group of eight. It’s ideal for family dinners or parties. All you need are basic kitchen tools like a knife and cutting board.

From start to finish, making these pies is fun. The end result is a golden-brown pie ready to eat. Let them sit for a bit before cutting into them. This helps the flavors blend. Whether you stick to the classic or try something new, making chicken pot pie is a special experience. Get ready to cook. Make a pie that will be cherished with every single bite.

FAQ

Can I use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, using chicken breasts is fine. But, remember they cook faster. This means you should check on them more often.

How do I make the chicken pot pie filling thicker?

Want a thicker filling? Add more flour to your sauce. Also, letting it simmer longer helps it naturally thicken.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

This meal prep is great. Make the filling early and keep it in the fridge for two days. Then, bake it with biscuits when you’re ready.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover individual chicken pot pies?

For leftovers, oven reheating is best. Set it to 350°F (175°C) until the middle is hot and the top is golden, about 15-20 minutes.

Are there ingredient substitutions for a dairy-free option?

Certainly! Use dairy-free butter and milks like almond or coconut. Just make sure these changes taste good with the pot pie.

How can I make the pot pie gluten-free?

To go gluten-free, use flours labeled safe for celiacs in both sauce and biscuits. Bob’s Red Mill has many safe options for this.

What size should individual pot pie dishes be?

Aim for 8 ounces (1 cup) dishes for one person. It’s a good size for a hearty single serving.

Can I use store-bought biscuit dough instead of making it from scratch?

Of course! Using pre-made dough saves time. Pick a trusted brand for the best taste and texture.

What are the best vegetables to use in the filling?

Go with the classics like onions, carrots, and peas. Add your favorites too, such as corn or mushrooms, for a personal touch.

How do I ensure my biscuit topping is golden and fluffy?

Key tips are not over-mixing the dough and baking it until golden. For extra goodness, brush the tops with melted butter before baking.