Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie

Name: Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked (shredded chicken); 1 cup carrots (diced); 1 cup potatoes (diced); 1 cup frozen peas; 1 cup celery (diced); 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 refrigerated pie crust

Craving a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself? This crockpot chicken pot pie is the answer! With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Just set it and forget it, and you’ll be rewarded with a comforting dinner that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this easy, satisfying recipe that will surely become a staple in your household.

Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 can cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 refrigerated pie crust

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/6 of the pie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. In a crockpot, combine shredded chicken, diced carrots, potatoes, peas, and celery.
2. In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth.
3. Add the soup mixture to the crockpot and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the pie crust.
7. Roll out the pie crust and place it over the crockpot, sealing the edges.
8. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the crust to bake.
9. Once golden brown, remove from heat and let cool slightly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily customize this recipe by substituting rotisserie chicken for cooked chicken, or by using fresh vegetables like green beans or corn. For a lighter version, consider using a low-fat cream soup or a vegetable broth.

Serving and Pairings

This delicious dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside steamed green beans or a light coleslaw.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover crockpot chicken pot pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Using too much liquid can result in a soggy crust.
Not shredding the chicken properly may lead to uneven cooking.
Overcooking can make vegetables mushy.
Not seasoning adequately can lead to bland flavor.
Using a crust that is too thick can affect baking time.

Helpful Tips

For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables before adding them to the crockpot.
Consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh taste.
Use a mix of fresh and frozen vegetables for the best texture.
Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to set the filling.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it cooks long enough to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the crust when ready to cook.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream soup.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

You can use cream of mushroom soup or make your own with a mixture of milk, flour, and chicken broth.

Conclusion

Crockpot chicken pot pie is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken and fresh vegetables in a flaky crust. This easy recipe is perfect for busy days, offering a hearty meal with minimal effort. Enjoy this warm, satisfying dish with your family and create lasting memories around the dinner table.