Chicken pot pie is one of those timeless comfort foods that always satisfies, whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but using Pillsbury pie crustselevates it to a whole new level of convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture.
With its golden, flaky crust and savory, creamy filling, Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is a go-to recipe for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking to whip up a traditional chicken pot pie or add your own unique twists, this article will take you through everything you need to know to master this delicious dish.
By the end, you’ll also discover numerous internal linking opportunities to other recipes and articles that complement your chicken pot pie endeavors. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Pillsbury for Your Pot Pie?
When it comes to pie crusts, Pillsbury is a trusted name that has been delivering quality and convenience for decades. Their ready-made pie crusts eliminate the need for rolling out dough, saving you time and effort, while still delivering a light and crispy result.
Pillsbury’s refrigerated pie crusts are versatile and can be adapted for a variety of dietary preferences. They offer gluten-free, whole wheat, and traditional options, allowing you to customize the recipe based on your needs. Whether you’re cooking for someone with gluten intolerance or trying to make a lighter version, Pillsbury has you covered.
Using Pillsbury pie crusts means you don’t have to worry about the technicalities of making dough from scratch—something that can be daunting for novice bakers. Instead, you can focus on perfecting your filling and adding personal touches to your recipe.
Classic Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
To start, let’s break down the classic Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie recipe. This recipe is simple to make and incredibly satisfying, offering that nostalgic, home-cooked flavor in every bite. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
For the filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is perfect for this)
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the crust:
- 1 package (2-count) Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Before starting, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the crust becomes golden brown and flaky while the filling remains tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the frozen mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5 minutes or until they begin to soften.
- Add the condensed cream of chicken soup and milk. Stir until well-combined, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the cooked shredded chicken, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Let the filling cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened and well-blended.
3. Assemble the Pot Pie
- Unroll one of the Pillsbury pie crusts and press it into a 9-inch pie plate, ensuring the edges are neatly fitted.
- Pour the warm chicken mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Unroll the second pie crust and lay it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to ensure a golden, shiny finish. Make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake
- Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet (to catch any potential drips), and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier.
This classic version is perfect for any occasion, and the combination of tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and a buttery, flaky crust will have your family asking for seconds.
Tips for a Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
1. Rotisserie Chicken is Your Best Friend
One of the easiest ways to cut down on prep time is by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already seasoned, moist, and ready to shred, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. For more tips on how to make the most of your rotisserie chicken, check out this Ultimate Rotisserie Chicken Recipes guide.
2. Customize the Filling
Feel free to make the filling your own by adding ingredients that suit your taste. Want to amp up the flavor? Try adding a teaspoon of minced garlic or a pinch of thyme and rosemary. For a richer flavor, swap out half the milk for heavy cream. If you prefer a heartier meal, consider adding diced potatoes or mushrooms.
3. Avoid a Soggy Crust
A common issue with pot pies is a soggy bottom crust. To prevent this, try prebaking the bottom crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. This helps firm up the dough and create a barrier that keeps the filling from making the crust too wet.
4. Using Biscuit Dough
If you’re a fan of the fluffy texture of biscuits, consider swapping out the pie crust for Pillsbury biscuits on top of your pot pie. To get a head start on this variation, visit our Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits Recipe for inspiration.
Recipe Variations
Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, it’s time to experiment! Here are some variations that will bring new life to your Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie:
1. Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie
For a cheesy twist, stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture before assembling the pot pie. The cheese adds a rich, creamy element that complements the savory filling perfectly. You can even sprinkle some extra cheddar on top of the crust for a golden, cheesy finish.
2. Vegetarian Pot Pie
For a meat-free version, substitute the chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or potatoes. Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom soup, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian option. For more vegetarian meal ideas, visit our guide to Chimichurri Tomato Pizza, another dish packed with flavor.
3. Buffalo Chicken Pot Pie
Add a little spice to your pot pie by tossing the shredded chicken in buffalo sauce before adding it to the filling. For even more flavor, mix in a tablespoon of ranch or blue cheese dressing. This variation is perfect for game day or any time you’re craving something with a kick.
4. Turkey Pot Pie
After Thanksgiving or any turkey-based meal, use your leftover turkey instead of chicken to make a turkey pot pie. The rich flavors of roasted turkey paired with Pillsbury’s flaky crust make for a delightful dish. You can even add a splash of gravy to the filling for extra moisture and flavor.
5. Gluten-Free Pot Pie
If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, Pillsbury offers gluten-free pie crusts that work just as well in this recipe. Additionally, make sure to use a gluten-free condensed soup, such as cream of mushroom or chicken. For more gluten-free recipes, check out our comprehensive guide to Gluten-Free Desserts for inspiration.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 slice, serves 8):
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
Looking to make a lighter version of your chicken pot pie? Consider reducing the amount of butter or substituting cream with a lower-fat milk option. Pillsbury also offers lighter pie crust alternatives, such as their whole wheat variety, which contains fewer calories and more fiber.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make-Ahead Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble the entire pie and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the crust from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, follow the same instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Freezing Pot Pie
Chicken pot pies freeze beautifully! Once assembled, cover the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you don’t need to thaw it. Just pop it straight into the oven and increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes. If the crust starts to get too brown, loosely cover it with foil.
For more delicious freezer-friendly meals, check out our Ultimate Philly Cheesesteak Tortellini Recipe for a convenient, hearty meal option.
Pairing Suggestions
Chicken pot pie is a hearty dish that pairs well with both light and substantial sides. Here are a few suggestions for pairing:
1. Cheesy Potatoes
For an ultra-comforting meal, serve your chicken pot pie with Cheesy Potatoes. These rich, creamy potatoes complement the savory filling of the pot pie perfectly.
2. Caesar Pasta Salad
For something on the lighter side, try pairing the pie with a refreshing Caesar Pasta Salad. The crisp romaine lettuce and tangy Caesar dressing provide a nice contrast to the warm, rich filling of the pie.
3. Steamed Vegetables
A simple side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, adds color and freshness to the meal. A drizzle of lemon butter sauce can make it extra special.
4. Red Velvet Brownies
Cap off the meal with a rich dessert like Red Velvet Brownies. These fudgy, vibrant brownies are the perfect way to finish a hearty dinner.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is a must-have recipe in your kitchen repertoire. Its simplicity, versatility, and unbeatable flavor make it a perfect option for any occasion. The addition of Pillsbury pie crusts makes it even easier, ensuring a flaky, golden crust every time.
With the classic recipe, variations, and tips provided in this guide, you’ll be able to create a pot pie that suits any preference or dietary need. And with the make-ahead and freezing options, you can enjoy this comforting dish at any time.
Be sure to explore other related recipes like our Buffalo Chicken Sliders and Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soupfor more hearty, flavorful meals. Happy cooking!
Internal Links for Further Reading:
- What Goes Well with Tortellini: Explore side dish options that complement pasta-based meals.
- Ultimate Beef Stir Fry Recipe: If you’re in the mood for something different, try this flavorful and quick stir fry recipe.
- Oreo Ice Cream Recipe: For a cool and creamy dessert to pair with your pot pie, dive into this Oreo ice cream recipe.