Ever wondered if you could make a savory meal that’s both quick and tasty? The answer is the mini chicken pot pie recipe. It combines chicken, veggies, and a creamy sauce in a flaky crust. This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, you need just four basic ingredients, making it a go-to for simple and quick meals.
This homemade pot pie recipe is super adaptable. You can use rotisserie, leftover, or fresh chicken. Are you ready to explore an easy yet delicious meal option? Let’s get started in the kitchen.
Key Takeaways
- Total prep and cook time: 30 minutes
- Requires only four main ingredients
- Versatile recipe: can be made with rotisserie, leftover, or freshly cooked chicken
- Use either biscuit or crescent roll dough
- Perfect for quick weeknight dinners
Introduction to Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Mini chicken pot pies bring the essence of comforting homemade meals with a twist. They offer the classic taste of *easy chicken pot pies* in a handy size. Every bite is filled with the familiar, enchanting flavor. Plus, since they’re individual pot pies, they fit well into any meal plan without losing their cozy charm.
*Mini pot pie muffins* are a joy to make with simple ingredients. You just need cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, crescent rolls, and veggies. Even with a busy schedule, families can enjoy a hearty easy chicken pot pie without a long cook time.
Recipe Details | Values |
---|---|
Ingredients Required | 4 |
Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
Total Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
Servings | 7 portions |
Calories per Pie | 1097 |
The secret of these mini pot pie muffins is their flexibility. You can use pre-cooked chicken to speed things up. Or, try different spices to find your favorite flavor. They’re perfect for any age and mood, providing a warm culinary experience.
Ingredients Needed for Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Gather everything you need to make your pot pies. This ensures your cooking goes smoothly. These comfort foods are loved by all. They come with a great mini crust recipe people enjoy.
Main Ingredients
For a tasty chicken pastry, you’ll need several main ingredients. They make the base of your mini pot pie, adding great taste and feel.
- Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation, or freshly cooked chicken if preferred.
- Mixed Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like corn, carrots, potatoes, peas, and green beans for a colorful and nutritious filling.
- Butter, Flour, and Milk: These ingredients are essential for making the creamy sauce that holds everything together.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Pie Crust: Opt for store-bought pie dough or puff pastry sheets to save time, or make your own using a homemade mini pot pie crust recipe.
- Fresh Herbs: Enhance the dish with herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
- Egg Wash: An egg wash helps give the crust a beautiful golden brown finish.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for well-balanced flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
Adding extra ingredients can make your pot pies special. Here are some add-ins to consider:
- Sautéed Shallots and Garlic: Adds aromatic depth to the filling.
- Cheese: Incorporate shredded Parmesan or cheddar for an extra layer of flavor.
- Dried Herbs: Use herbs like bay leaf, onion powder, or garlic salt for added seasoning complexity.
- Frozen Vegetables: A convenient option that can be added directly to the cream sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: Stir spinach into the mixture for additional nutrients.
By getting all these ingredients together, your mini pot pies will be tasty and perfect for you. Next, find out how to prepare the chicken for the best filling.
Preparing the Chicken
Selecting which chicken to use for mini pot pies depends on what you like and how easy it is. You can pick *rotisserie chicken*, home-cooked chicken, or fresh fried chicken. This recipe works with many kinds of chicken preparation.
For a quick and easy meal, using *leftover chicken* is great. Use about 75% of your chicken as leftovers to make the filling tasty. If you buy a *rotisserie chicken*, pull the meat apart. Make sure to remove any bones or skin for a better mix in the pies.
If you like fresh tastes, you might go for a *fresh chicken breast*. For the best flavor, cook it by browning or poaching. Air-frying is also good, keeping the chicken juicy with a nice outside. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper before cooking for more flavor.
Here’s a simple guide to your chicken choices and how to prepare them:
Type of Chicken | Preparation Method | Notes |
---|---|---|
Rotisserie Chicken | Shredded | Pre-cooked, convenient |
Fresh Chicken Breast | Browning, Poaching, Air-frying | Best for fresh, robust flavor |
Leftover Chicken | Chopped | Efficient use of leftovers |
Every type of chicken brings a unique texture and flavor. Add the seasoned, cooked chicken to your filling. Keep the chicken mix well-balanced with the veggies and sauce.
Preparing your chicken carefully is key to a tasty and comforting mini pot pie.
Choosing the Right Vegetables
Choosing the right vegetables is crucial for a tasty mini chicken and vegetable pie. The decision between fresh and frozen veggies is important. It affects the pie’s texture and taste. Fresh and frozen vegetables bring different benefits. Knowing when to use each kind can make your mini pie perfect.
Fresh vs. Frozen Vegetables
Fresh vegetables include carrots, peas, green beans, and corn. They add bright colors and a crunchy feel to your pie. But frozen veggies can also be healthy and easy to use if defrosted right. The main thing to think about is what’s available. In some seasons, you may not find fresh vegetables. In this case, going frozen is a smart choice.
Defrosting Frozen Vegetables
Getting frozen veggies ready is important for a tasty pie. To defrost them, put the veggies in a microwave-safe bowl. Then, use the defrost or low power setting on your microwave. Make sure they’re fully defrosted and pat them dry. This step stops too much water from making your pie too wet.
Vegetable Type | Benefits | Usage |
---|---|---|
Fresh | Crunchier texture, vibrant flavor | Use in-season for best results |
Frozen | Convenient, available year-round | Ensure proper defrosting to maintain quality |
Making the Filling
Making the filling for your mini chicken pot pies is all about quality. You need to mix the right ingredients to make it tasty. Adding the perfect seasoning makes every bite delicious.
Combining Ingredients
Start by getting 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken ready for our homemade pot pie recipe. Add diced vegetables like carrots, Yukon Gold potatoes, onions, and mushrooms – a cup of each. Don’t forget the 1 cup of frozen peas for more texture. Using 1 cup each of chicken broth and milk makes it all creamy. A bit of heavy cream adds even more taste.
Seasoning the Filling
Seasoning is key in making a great chicken pastry. Toss in a large garlic clove and plenty of Herbs de Provence, a mix of spices like thyme and oregano. Add 1/4 cup of flour to your mix for thickening. Make sure to stir everything well to evenly coat all the pieces.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cooked and Shredded Chicken | 2 cups |
Carrots | 1 cup |
Yukon Gold Potatoes | 1 cup |
Onions | 1 cup |
Mushrooms | 1 cup |
Frozen Peas | 1 cup |
Garlic Clove | 1 large |
All-Purpose Flour | 1/4 cup |
Chicken Broth | 1 cup |
Milk | 1 cup |
Mini Chicken Pot Pie Crust Recipe
Picking the right crust for your mini chicken pot pies is crucial for their taste and texture. Each option for your mini pot pie crust brings something special to the recipe.
Biscuit Dough vs. Crescent Roll Dough
For a fast dinner on a busy night, biscuit dough is an excellent choice for your mini pot pies. It’s sturdy and works well with the filling. Crescent roll dough, on the other hand, is softer and a bit sweeter. It gives your homemade pot pie a special twist.
Homemade Pie Crust Option
A homemade pie crust is perfect for those who love traditional flavors. An All Butter Pie Crust works best. It’s flaky and rich, making your pot pies stand out. Making your own crust lets you control the taste and texture, ensuring a perfect bite every time.
Crust Option | Prep Time | Attributes |
---|---|---|
Biscuit Dough | 30 minutes | Sturdy, quick to prepare |
Crescent Roll Dough | 30 minutes | Softer, slightly sweet |
Homemade Pie Crust | 30-60 minutes | Flaky, rich, customizable |
No matter the crust you choose – biscuit, crescent roll, or homemade – the ideal mini pot pie recipe is out there. You’ll savor the mix of flavors and textures in every mini pie.
Assembling Your Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Making a mini chicken pot pie is simple if you follow a few steps. These are great for any meal. You’ll find them a hit at the table. A muffin tin is your go-to tool for these mini pies.
Using a Muffin Tin
First, get your muffin tin out. It makes each mini pie the same shape and size. This is key for them to look and taste great.
- Lightly grease your muffin tin to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Roll out your refrigerated pie crust and cut it into circles that are slightly larger than the muffin tin cups.
- Press the dough circles into each cup, stretching them to form a cup shape along the walls of the tin.
Then, start filling these cups with your mix.
- Combine 1 ½ cups cream of chicken soup, 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, and 1 cup chopped cooked chicken (rotisserie) in a bowl.
- Put the mix into each dough cup evenly. This ensures each pie is just as tasty and looks good too.
- Finally, cover with more dough and pinch the edges to seal the pies well.
Step | Details |
---|---|
1 | Grease muffin tin and roll out refrigerated pie crust. |
2 | Cut dough into circles and press into muffin tin. |
3 | Combine cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, and chicken. |
4 | Spoon filling into dough cups and seal with dough on top. |
Tips for Baking Mini Chicken Pot Pies
When you make mini chicken pot pies, watching them carefully is key. This makes them turn out with a perfect, golden-brown crust. Here’s how to get them just right.
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Mini pot pie muffins take around 20-22 minutes to cook. If your oven has a fan, set it to 350 F.
It’s crucial to use non-stick cooking spray, especially in a muffin tin. This ensures your pies come out without a hassle. You should press the biscuit dough into 5 ½ inch circles for 8 servings. Serve with a salad and fresh fruit for a great meal.
After baking, let the pot pies cool a bit. Then, use a knife to help them come out of the tin smoothly. This keeps them looking and tasting great.
If you’re adding frozen veggies, make sure to thaw and drain them. The filling must not be too thick or dry. Add liquid slowly, about a ÂĽ cup each time, to keep it moist.
Looking for more ideas? Check out this recipe here. Mini chicken pot pies with puff pastry are a tasty change.
Always look for a golden crust to know they’re done. Enjoy them fresh. But, you can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a 350 F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Looking at new ways to cook your mini chicken pot pies can offer more freedom and ease. This is great, especially if you don’t have all the regular kitchen gear. It lets you play with different pans and crust types, giving you more cooking options.
Using Springform Pans
Springform pans are a great switch from the smaller muffin tins. They fit more food and let you pick your perfect crust. Plus, they’re easy to take the pies out of, keeping them looking good.
Remember, with springform pans, you might need to bake a bit longer. Adding 10 to 15 more minutes should make sure everything cooks evenly at 425°F.
Method | Cook Time | Recommended Dough | Remarks |
---|---|---|---|
Muffin Tin | 25 minutes | Pre-made pie crust | Quick and easy portion control |
Springform Pan | 35-40 minutes | Puff pastry or crescent roll dough | Ideal for larger servings |
Adapting for Different Doughs
The best part of the mini chicken pot pie is how you can mix it up. Pick different doughs, such as puff pastry or crescent rolls, to change up the taste and feel. It’s fun and lets you cater to different dietary needs too.
- Puff Pastry: It’s flaky and buttery, great with creamy fillings. Cut down the baking time a bit to avoid browning.
- Crescent Roll Dough: Gives a soft, airy crust. Perfect for those who want something different from usual pie crust.
Just keep an eye on them if you change the dough. This way, you won’t cook them too much or too little. Both puff pastry and crescent rolls can be made ahead, making dinner planning simple.
How to Know When Your Pot Pies Are Done
Baking perfect, individual pot pies means remembering a few steps. Knowing when your mini chicken pot pies are ready to serve is easy with these tips.
Checking the Crust
A nicely browned crust tells you the pot pie is ready. Each pie crust, about 0.65 ounces in weight, needs to bake for 15 minutes at 400 degrees F. If the top gets too dark, cover the pies with foil to avoid burning.
Testing the Filling
Watch for the filling to bubble in an easy chicken pot pie. Once bubbly, the insides are hot enough and the food is cooked through. It usually takes 15-18 minutes at 425°F for this to happen.
Side Salad Pairings
Adding a fresh side salad to your meal makes it even better. Try a Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette. The salad’s freshness is a nice contrast to the rich pot pie.
Other Comfort Food Sides
If you want more comfort food, pair your pot pie with mashed potatoes, veggies, or buttered rolls. These sides go perfectly with your homemade pot pie recipe. They enhance the meal’s hearty taste and texture.
With these guidelines, your pot pies are ready to be enjoyed. They offer a warm, comforting homemade meal that’s perfect every time.
Storing and Reheating Your Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Keeping your mini chicken pot pies tasty involves some simple steps. Let them cool after baking. This makes sure the crust stays crispy and the filling stays flavorsome.
To keep the pies well, use airtight containers or tightly wrap them. You can store them in the fridge for up to four days. Or, freeze for longer times. Be sure the filling is cool before you freeze it. This stops the crust from getting soggy.
Bake each pie at 425°F for 15 minutes, then lower to 375°F for 40-45 minutes.
Reheating your mini chicken pot pies is easy. Here’s how:
- Oven: Set it to 375°F. Bake cold pies for 25-35 minutes. Frozen ones need 45 minutes or more.
- Toaster Oven: Heat it to 375-400°F. Reheat for 10-12 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Warm it up to 350°F. Heat for 8-12 minutes.
- Microwave: Use high power for 3-4 minutes. Adjust for your microwave’s strength.
- Stove-Top: Warm up in a non-stick pan over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make sure the pies get to 165-170°F inside during reheating.
Does cooking ahead sound good to you? Freeze the pies first, then bake when you want to eat them. Follow the usual baking times for frozen pies.
By following these tips, your mini chicken pot pies stay yummy and ready for any meal. Enjoy!
Mini Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
This mini chicken pot pie recipe is great for family dinners or parties. It takes only 50 minutes to make, with 25 minutes for preparation and another 25 to cook. Perfect for groups, you can serve 16 mouth-watering pies. Here’s how to make them:
- 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cooked and chopped
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 3/4 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 boxes Pillsbury™ refrigerated pie crusts
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup cold butter
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Preparation Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook and chop your chicken breasts. Then, set them aside.
- Sauté onions, celery, and garlic until soft.
- Add mixed veggies, peas, cream, and broth. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Throw in the cheddar cheese and chicken.
- Mix flour and cold butter for the pie crust. Chill the dough for at least 20 minutes.
- Roll out the pie crust. Cut them to fit your muffin tin.
- Fill the crusts with the filling.
- Give the edges a brush with an egg wash (mixed egg and water).
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until the crust turns golden brown.
These mini pot pies are known for their creamy filling flavored by heavy cream, chicken broth, and sharp cheddar cheese. Each pie has about 242 kcal, so they’re just the right comfort portion. With 4.88 out of 8 votes, people really love the recipe for its quality and taste.
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Enjoy these tasty, convenient pot pies. They’re perfect for any get-together!
Frequently Asked Questions about Mini Chicken Pot Pies
Do you know your mini chicken pot pie recipe well? It helps you make, save, and savor them better. Here’s info on some major questions.
Can You Freeze Mini Chicken Pot Pies?
Yes, mini chicken pot pies can be frozen! First, let them cool down. Wrap each pie in plastic or foil. Then, put them in a bag or container fit for the freezer. With this, you can keep them tasty for 2-3 months.
How Long Do They Last in the Fridge?
If chilling is your style, your homemade pot pie recipe can sit in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep them airtight to lock in flavor. When you warm them up, use the microwave first, then the oven. It stops them from getting soggy. This way, your leftovers will taste great, just like new.
Storage Method | Duration |
---|---|
Refrigerator | 3-4 Days |
Freezer | 2-3 Months |
Stick to these tips for your favorite recipes, be it a mini chicken pot pie recipe or your own. This will help keep your meals fresh and tasty even after some time.
Conclusion
This mini chicken pot pie recipe is quick and comforting, loved by everyone. It uses simple ingredients like puff pastry, cooked chicken, and veggies. Its prep time is convenient, making it perfect for all kitchen skill levels.
This recipe makes four tasty mini pot pies. Cook them at 375 degrees for 30 minutes until golden. You can serve them right away or save some for later, showing how versatile and convenient they are.
In conclusion, this recipe is more than just tasty. It celebrates the happiness found in homemade meals, whether shared with others or enjoyed alone. Making and eating these pot pies brings joy and comfort to any meal.
FAQ
Can You Freeze Mini Chicken Pot Pies?
Yes, you can freeze mini chicken pot pies. Let them cool first. Then, you can store them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic. Put them in the freezer. They stay good for 2-3 months.
How Long Do They Last in the Fridge?
They can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Remember to let them cool down fully. Then, put them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and stop extra moisture.
What Type of Chicken Works Best for This Recipe?
This recipe is flexible. You can use rotisserie chicken, some you cooked before, or fresh chicken breast. Canned chicken works too, for a quick option. But, for the best taste, go with fresh or leftover chicken.
Can I Use a Different Type of Dough for the Crust?
Sure, you can use refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent roll dough. Or, try a homemade pie crust for something different. Making your own crust lets you choose the flavor and texture you want.
What Vegetables Are Recommended for Mini Chicken Pot Pies?
Try a mix of carrots, peas, green beans, and corn. You can use fresh or frozen veggies. Just make sure to defrost and drain frozen vegetables to avoid too much moisture.
How Do I Know When My Mini Chicken Pot Pies Are Done?
They’re ready when the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. If the crust is browning too fast, use foil to cover the pies while they bake to avoid burning.
Can I Customize the Filling?
Absolutely! Add herbs, spices, or cheese to the filling to match your taste. The main filling is chicken, veggies, and cream of chicken soup. But, go ahead and mix in your favorite seasonings and extras.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Mini Chicken Pot Pies?
They go nicely with many sides. For a light and balanced meal, a salad is great. Or, try comfort foods like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or broccoli to make the meal more satisfying.