Chicken Pot Pie With Flaky Crust

Name: Chicken Pot Pie With Flaky Crust
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, diced; 1 cup carrots, diced; 1 cup peas, frozen; 1 cup potatoes, diced; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 1/3 cup butter; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup butter, chilled and diced; 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Favorites

When I think of comfort food, Chicken Pot Pie comes to mind instantly. With its flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. I love experimenting with herbs and spices to enhance the flavors, and each time I make it, the aroma that fills the kitchen is irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with my tips for achieving the perfect flaky crust, you’ll be a pro in no time!

Created by

Hannah Lewis

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:53:37.728Z

Every time I make Chicken Pot Pie, I remember my grandmother's kitchen, where this dish was a staple. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce enveloped in a flaky crust has become a cherished family recipe. What I've discovered is that the secret to a successful pot pie is balancing the fillings for consistency. I often add a splash of white wine to brighten the flavors.

One thing I’ve learned is that resting the dough before rolling it out allows the gluten to relax, ensuring a flaky crust. I also recommend using a mix of both butter and shortening for the ultimate texture. You’ll find that with these tips, your pot pie will be the star of any meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory filling that is both creamy and comforting
Flaky crust that adds a perfect texture to each bite
A wonderful way to repurpose leftover chicken or turkey

Mastering the Flaky Crust

One of the hallmarks of a great Chicken Pot Pie is a flaky crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. To achieve this texture, it's crucial to handle the dough minimally. When mixing the cold butter into the flour, aim for pea-sized pieces—this ensures pockets of fat that will steam during baking, creating a flaky texture. Always keep your ingredients cold; if the dough becomes too warm while working, the butter can melt, leading to a densified crust.

I recommend using a pastry cutter for cutting the butter into the flour, as it allows for more control over the size of the butter pieces. Additionally, the ice water you add to the dough is equally important; it helps create the structure needed for flakiness. Too much water can lead to a gummy crust, so add it gradually and stop when the dough starts clumping together.

After refrigerating the dough, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This step allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll and shape without springing back. For an extra touch, consider adding a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the dough—which can create a tender crust due to its acidic properties.

Enhancing the Filling Flavor

The beauty of the filling in Chicken Pot Pie lies in its versatility. While this recipe uses classic vegetables like carrots and peas, you can experiment with adding mushrooms or sweet corn for variation. For an extra depth of flavor, sauté the onions until they've turned golden brown before adding the other vegetables; this caramelization adds a sweet, complex profile to the filling.

Using fresh herbs like thyme not only infuses the dish with aromatic qualities but also complements the richness of the creamy sauce. If fresh herbs are unavailable, about one-third of a teaspoon of dried thyme can substitute. However, be careful not to overdo it with dried herbs; they’re more concentrated than fresh.

To elevate the filling even more, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. The homemade version tends to be richer and adds a nuanced flavor that elevates the entire pot pie experience. For those who may be short on time, though, quality store-bought broth will still yield a delicious result.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful Chicken Pot Pie:

For the Filling

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup peas, frozen
1 cup potatoes, diced
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crust

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, chilled and diced
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s move on to preparing the pot pie!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Chicken Pot Pie:

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and potatoes and cook until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the broth and milk. Add chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper, then stir until bubbly. Remove from heat.

Roll Out the Crust

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Divide the dough in half and roll it out on a floured surface. Fit one half into a pie dish and fill with the chicken mixture. Roll out the second half and place it over the filling, sealing the edges. Cut slits for steam to escape.

Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked Chicken Pot Pie!

Pro Tips

For a golden crust, brush the top with an egg wash before baking. You can also add your favorite vegetables to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

Chicken Pot Pie can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. After baking, let it cool completely before covering with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you prefer to freeze, do so before baking. Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly, and it can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, no need to thaw; simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

To reheat individual slices, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Cover with aluminum foil if the crust begins to darken too quickly. This method helps maintain the crust's flakiness while ensuring the filling is warm and comforting.

If reheating the entire pie, the same oven temperature applies, but expect a longer time, close to 25-30 minutes for thorough heating. Make sure to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting, all-in-one meal, but you can elevate its presentation by serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette will contrast nicely with the richness of the pie, providing a delightful balance on the palate.

For a more indulgent experience, pair the pot pie with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or some warm crusty bread for dipping. This combination is sure to make your meal even heartier, perfect for colder evenings or cozy gatherings.

If you’re in the mood for a bit of sweetness to finish off the meal, consider serving individual portions of pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of apple pie for dessert. The combination of savory and sweet flavors creates a memorable dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, you can use store-bought crust if you're short on time. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking!

→ How can I make this dish more nutritious?

Consider adding more vegetables to the filling, like mushrooms or spinach, for added nutrients and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust a day ahead, refrigerate, and then assemble and bake when you're ready.

→ What should I serve with Chicken Pot Pie?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with Chicken Pot Pie for a balanced meal.