Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe With Cream of Chicken
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes stand out as much as chicken pot pie. With its rich, creamy filling, tender chicken, and flaky crust, it has the perfect blend of flavors that can satisfy your cravings. But what if you could make this classic dish in less time and with fewer ingredients, without sacrificing the taste? That’s where an easy chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup comes into play.
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This recipe is a game-changer for busy individuals or families who crave a home-cooked meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. If you’re tired of complicated recipes with long ingredient lists, you’ll find that this version simplifies the process without compromising flavor. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can make a delicious chicken pot pie that’s sure to be a hit every time!
Why Choose an Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe With Cream of Chicken Soup?
There’s no denying that chicken pot pie is a staple in many households. Its combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and a buttery, flaky crust makes it an irresistible dish. But when you’re looking for something that doesn’t take hours of preparation, an easy chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup is a lifesaver. Here’s why:
- Simplicity – Using cream of chicken soup as a base streamlines the process. No need to make your own creamy sauce from scratch! The soup provides a rich and creamy filling, cutting down on time and effort.
- Consistent Flavor – Cream of chicken soup offers a dependable, consistent flavor every time. Whether you’re making this dish for the first time or the hundredth, you can trust that it will turn out delicious.
- Time-Saving – When you’re short on time, this recipe delivers. There’s no need for slow cooking or chopping endless vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this dish in under an hour.
What You’ll Need for Easy Chicken Pot Pie
Before you get started, let’s gather the ingredients. This easy chicken pot pie recipe uses cream of chicken soup as the star of the show. You don’t need fancy ingredients, just basic staples that are likely already in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cooked chicken (shredded) | 2 cups |
Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
Frozen mixed vegetables | 2 cups |
Milk | 1/2 cup |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) | 2 (top and bottom) |
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, you’re ready to start the cooking process. But before we get into the steps, let’s talk about why some of these ingredients are used and how they contribute to the overall flavor and texture of the pie.
The Role of Cream of Chicken Soup in Your Chicken Pot Pie
When making chicken pot pie, the filling is one of the most important elements. Traditionally, the filling is made by combining chicken, vegetables, and a homemade creamy sauce. But with the use of cream of chicken soup, you can skip several steps while still achieving that creamy, comforting texture.
Here’s why using cream of chicken soup is a smart choice:
- Rich Flavor: The soup already contains seasonings, so it adds a rich and savory base to the filling without needing extra steps.
- Convenience: It’s a time-saver. No need to worry about creating a roux or thickening a sauce. It’s all in one can!
- Creamy Texture: The creaminess of the soup makes your chicken pot pie filling smooth and satisfying without being overly heavy.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Chicken Pot Pie
Now that you know why this recipe works so well, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking! Here’s how you can make an easy chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup.
1. Preparing the Filling
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine the chicken and vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken and frozen mixed vegetables. The frozen vegetables don’t need to be thawed; they will cook perfectly in the oven.
- Add the cream of chicken soup: Pour the entire can of cream of chicken soup into the bowl. Add the milk and stir everything together until the mixture is smooth.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Stir again to incorporate the seasoning evenly. You can always adjust the seasonings based on your personal preference.
2. Assembling the Pie
- Prepare the pie crust: Roll out the first pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press it down so it fits perfectly in the dish.
- Add the filling: Pour the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with the second crust: Place the second pie crust over the top of the filling. Press the edges of the crusts together to seal the pie. Use a fork to crimp the edges and make sure the pie stays sealed while baking.
- Vent the crust: Use a knife to cut several small slits in the top of the crust. This allows steam to escape during baking and ensures your crust doesn’t become soggy.
3. Baking the Pie
- Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. The crust should be golden brown and crispy.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and prevents burns when you slice into it.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Pot Pie
While this easy chicken pot pie recipe is foolproof, here are a few tips to take your dish to the next level:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you want to save even more time, rotisserie chicken is a great option. Simply shred it and you’ll have a flavorful filling in no time.
- Brush the Crust with Butter: For a golden, shiny crust, brush a little melted butter over the top before baking.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Try adding some fresh thyme or parsley to the filling for extra flavor. Fresh herbs elevate the taste and give the pie a more homemade touch.
- Make it Extra Creamy: If you like your filling extra creamy, add a little more milk or even some heavy cream.
Variations and Substitutions
This easy chicken pot pie recipe is versatile, and you can easily adjust it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: If you’re vegetarian, swap the chicken for mushrooms, diced potatoes, or even tofu. You can also use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, add shredded cheddar cheese to the filling. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, savory flavor.
Serving Your Chicken Pot Pie
Once your chicken pot pie is ready, you’ll want to serve it with the perfect sides. Here are some ideas for complementary dishes:
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pot pie.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans are great side options that add a healthy touch to the meal.
- Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into any extra filling!
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Chicken Pot Pie
1. Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade cream of chicken soup will work perfectly in this recipe. It’s a great way to control the ingredients and make it a little healthier.
2. How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?
To prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy, you can pre-bake it for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. This ensures the crust stays crisp during baking.
3. Can I freeze the pie before baking?
Yes! If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the pie, cover it, and freeze it. When you’re ready to bake, simply cook it from frozen, adding about 15-20 extra minutes to the baking time.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy crust.
Conclusion
This easy chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup is the perfect solution for busy nights when you crave a comforting, homemade meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with substitutions and variations, you can’t go wrong with this dish. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!