Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Make the roux: Stir in the flour, cooking it for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add broth and milk: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Then, add the milk or cream. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Season the filling: Add the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Add chicken and vegetables: Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well-coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Assemble the Pot Pie
- Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the chicken and vegetable filling into a pie dish or a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Add the crust: Place the refrigerated pie crust over the top of the filling. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges and press the edges down with a fork to seal.
- Make vents: Cut a few small slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush the top of the pie crust with the beaten egg to give it a shiny, golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Pot Pie
- Bake: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool slightly: Let the chicken pot pie cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set a bit and makes it easier to serve.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot: Slice the chicken pot pie into portions and serve it hot. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips and Variations
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just assemble and bake as directed.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Double crust: For an extra indulgent pot pie, use a second sheet of pie crust to line the bottom of the baking dish before adding the filling.
Conclusion
Easy Peasy Chicken Pot Pie is a delicious, comforting meal that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor. The creamy chicken and vegetable filling under a golden, flaky crust is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re using up leftover chicken or making it fresh, this recipe is a winner.
Enjoy your cooking, and savor the comforting goodness of this easy chicken pot pie!