Easy Chicken Pot Pie With Pie Crust And Cream Of Chicken Soup

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Introduction

Easy chicken pot pie with pie crust and cream of chicken soup stands as a comforting classic, enjoyed across generations. Its popularity stems from its simplicity, comforting flavors, and the satisfying combination of flaky crust and creamy filling. This version streamlines the traditional recipe, making it accessible to even novice cooks, by utilizing pre-made pie crust and cream of chicken soup for a quicker, easier assembly. It is commonly cooked as a weeknight meal, a comforting dish during colder months, or a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings.

Ingredients

The core ingredients for easy chicken pot pie with pie crust and cream of chicken soup are readily available. You’ll need:

• Pre-made pie crust (2 crusts): Refrigerated or frozen, either works. For a gluten-free option, consider a gluten-free pie crust.
• Cooked chicken (2-3 cups): Shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken offers a convenient shortcut. Alternatively, use leftover cooked chicken.
• Cream of chicken soup (2 cans, 10.75 oz each): This forms the creamy base. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be substituted for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Mixed vegetables (1-2 cups): Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans) are convenient. Freshly chopped vegetables can also be used but may require pre-cooking.
• Milk or chicken broth (1/4 cup): To thin the soup slightly.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the filling.
• Onion (1/2 cup, diced): Adds flavor and depth.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For added aromatic flavor.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, poultry seasoning (to taste).
• Egg (1, beaten): For brushing the crust to give it a golden-brown color.

Preparation Steps

Before assembling the easy chicken pot pie, a few preparatory steps are essential. First, if using frozen mixed vegetables, thaw them slightly under warm water. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If using raw chicken, ensure it is fully cooked and shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. Preheating the oven is crucial before starting the assembly. Consider lightly sauting the onion and garlic in butter for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the filling. This step adds depth to the overall taste of the pot pie.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful easy chicken pot pie with pie crust and cream of chicken soup:

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, milk or chicken broth, melted butter, sauted onion and garlic (if using), and seasonings. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the pot pie: Line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the pie crusts. Gently press the crust into the bottom and up the sides of the dish.
4. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
5. Top with the second pie crust: Place the second crust over the filling. Trim any excess crust, leaving about an inch overhang.
6. Crimp the edges: Fold the overhang under and crimp the edges to seal the pot pie. This creates a decorative border and prevents the filling from leaking out.
7. Cut vents: Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
8. Egg wash (optional): Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a golden-brown, glossy finish.
9. Bake: Place the pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
10. Cool slightly: Let the pot pie cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth.

Serving Suggestions

Easy chicken pot pie with pie crust and cream of chicken soup is a complete meal on its own, but it can be enhanced with simple accompaniments. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot pie. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also make excellent side dishes. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Common Mistakes

To ensure a successful easy chicken pot pie with pie crust and cream of chicken soup, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t overfill the pie: Overfilling can cause the filling to leak out during baking, resulting in a soggy crust.
• Ensure the crust is sealed properly: A well-sealed crust prevents the filling from leaking and ensures a crisp, golden-brown finish.
• Don’t skip the vents: Venting the top crust is essential to allow steam to escape, preventing the crust from becoming soggy.
• Avoid overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the filling and burn the crust. Keep a close eye on the pot pie during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Let it rest: Allowing the pot pie to cool slightly before serving helps the filling to set and prevents burning.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Easy chicken pot pie with pie crust and cream of chicken soup represents a quintessential comfort food, offering a blend of familiar flavors and effortless preparation. Its enduring appeal lies in its adaptability, allowing for customization based on individual preferences and available ingredients. From varying the vegetables to experimenting with different herbs and spices, this dish invites culinary creativity. Embrace the opportunity to recreate this heartwarming classic in the home, sharing its comforting essence with family and friends. For more inspiring recipes and practical cooking guides, visit foodrecipestory.com and embark on a journey of culinary exploration.