Chicken Pot Pie for Two is a comforting, savory dish made with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all baked under a flaky crust. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home when you’re cooking for two. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded (about 1 medium chicken breast)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Crust:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup diced celery for extra flavor
- ½ cup diced potatoes for added heartiness
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the onions, carrots, and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Pot Pies
- Divide the chicken mixture evenly between two oven-safe ramekins or small baking dishes.
- Roll out the pie crust and cut it into two pieces large enough to cover the ramekins.
- Place the crusts over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Trim any excess dough and use a fork to crimp the edges.
- Cut a few small slits in the top of each crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 5: Bake the Pot Pies
- Brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Place the ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the pot pies cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Pie Crust: You can use store-bought pie dough or puff pastry for convenience, or make your own homemade crust if you prefer.
- Chicken: This recipe works great with rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken to save time.
Variations
1. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pot Pie
Add ½ cup sliced mushrooms to the filling for an earthy flavor and extra creaminess.
2. Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie
Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce for a rich, cheesy flavor that pairs well with the chicken and vegetables.
3. Herb Chicken Pot Pie
Add fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or rosemary to the filling for a more herbaceous and fragrant pot pie.
4. Chicken and Broccoli Pot Pie
Substitute the peas with ½ cup of steamed broccoli for a classic chicken and broccoli combination.
5. Spicy Chicken Pot Pie
Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy twist on the traditional pot pie.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pot pies in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Simply bake them according to the recipe instructions when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pot pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled pot pies (before baking) for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: Can I make this recipe with other proteins?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even beef for a different flavor profile.
This Chicken Pot Pie for Two is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and savory chicken and vegetables, this recipe delivers all the flavor of a traditional pot pie in a smaller portion. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this pot pie is sure to satisfy!