Are you craving a hearty, warm, and comforting meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than this crock pot chicken pot pie. It’s a dish perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a dose of classic comfort food. The slow cooker method makes it even more convenient, allowing you to achieve all the flavors with minimal effort.
This recipe is easy to customize and adaptable to your preferences. Unlike the traditional version, this crock pot chicken pot pie doesn’t require baking in an oven, saving you time and hassle. You’ll get that creamy chicken filling and vegetables topped with delicious biscuits or crust—all cooked in one pot. The ease of this method makes it an ideal recipe for busy families or those who just want a delicious home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. For more details on maximizing your slow cooker’s potential, check out these tips for using a slow cooker.
Cooking this dish in a crock pot allows the flavors to blend together in a way that’s difficult to achieve with other methods. The slow cooking process brings out the tenderness in the chicken and helps infuse the flavors of the herbs and vegetables. This makes it perfect not just for dinner, but also for meal prepping or even casual gatherings. Plus, if you love the taste of a traditional chicken pot pie but want to skip the effort of rolling out pie crust, this recipe gives you all the goodness in an easier form. For additional inspiration on making your chicken pot pie even more nutritious, take a look at nutritional information for chicken pot pie.
Ingredients You Need
Here are the essential ingredients for making this easy crock pot chicken pot pie:
- 1 1/2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 2 cups of chicken broth (you can use vegetable broth as well)
- 1 cup of diced carrots
- 1 cup of diced potatoes
- 1/2 cup of frozen peas
- 1/2 cup of frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup of chopped celery
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 2 tablespoons of flour (to thicken the filling)
- Store-bought biscuits (optional) for topping
Feel free to modify the veggies based on what you have available or add in some personal favorites. No need to stick strictly to this list! You can easily make substitutions like using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, or adding green beans for extra texture. The idea is to keep it simple but flavorful.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect chicken pot pie in a crock pot:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the chicken, chop the vegetables, and gather your spices. This will help streamline the cooking process and make everything easier once you start.
- Layer in the Crock Pot: Start by adding the chicken pieces to the bottom of your slow cooker. Next, add the chopped vegetables (– carrots, potatoes, peas, corn, celery) on top. Make sure to layer the vegetables evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Add the Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth along with the dried herbs (thyme and parsley). Season the mixture with salt and pepper. The broth will provide a savory base that melds all the flavors together.
- Cooking Time: Set your crock pot to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and the vegetables fully cooked. The low and slow approach ensures that every ingredient is infused with flavor, making for an especially rich pot pie filling.
- Thickening the Filling: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the heavy cream and flour together in a bowl. Stir this into the crock pot to thicken the filling. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add more flour or reduce the liquid slightly.
- Add the Biscuits: For the final touch, top the mixture with store-bought biscuits and cook for another 15 minutes, or until they are fluffy and golden brown. The biscuits absorb some of the flavor, giving you a delicious topping that complements the creamy filling perfectly.
If you want to add more layers of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and celery before adding them to the crock pot. This extra step, while optional, can enhance the depth of flavor and make the dish taste even more homemade.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Fresh Herbs: If available, replace dried herbs with fresh ones for a more vibrant flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can really elevate the dish and make it taste garden-fresh.
- Check the Liquid Levels: If you find the mixture is too thick, add some more chicken broth to get the desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too watery, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to help it reduce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with diced tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You could also add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for more flavor and substance.
Variations and Customizations
There are numerous ways to make this crock pot chicken pot pie uniquely yours:
- Replace Chicken with Other Proteins: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, you can easily substitute it with turkey or lamb for a different twist. Turkey works especially well as a lean protein that also offers a similar texture.
- Add Citrus for Brightness: Add a dash of lemon juice for a slight tangy kick. This can cut through the richness of the cream and provide a nice contrast.
- Make It Creamier: Want something creamier? Consider mixing in a bit of cream cheese or even mascarpone. This will make the filling extra velvety and indulgent.
- Spice It Up: If you prefer a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper. It will add a subtle kick that balances well with the creamy sauce.
- Change Up the Topping: Instead of biscuits, you could top the filling with puff pastry, pie crust, or even a layer of mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
Nutritional Information
This crock pot chicken pot pie recipe has approximately:
- 400-450 calories per serving
- 30 grams of protein, making it an excellent source of lean protein
- 15 grams of fat (can be adjusted based on dairy choice)
- Rich in Vitamin A and C due to the vegetables
- Provides dietary fiber from the variety of vegetables, which aids digestion
You can adjust the nutritional content by swapping out ingredients. For a lower-fat version, use light cream or even plain Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream. Alternatively, for more protein, you could increase the amount of chicken or add some white beans.
Serving Suggestions
-
Broccoli Cauliflower Salad: Serve with this Broccoli Cauliflower Salad for a refreshing and crunchy side that pairs perfectly with the creamy pot pie.
- Side Salad: Serve with a side salad for a well-rounded meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pot pie.
- Refreshing Beverage: Pair with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade. The acidity from the lemonade pairs wonderfully with the creamy dish.
- Garlic Bread: This dish also works well with a side of garlic bread. The crunchy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy pot pie filling, and it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans to add extra vegetables and nutrients to the meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which could make the filling watery.
- Freezer: You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, and when you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of broth to maintain the right consistency. Avoid the microwave as it can dry out the chicken and make the biscuits soggy. If you do use the microwave, reheat in short intervals and stir frequently to avoid overcooking.
FAQs About Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s recommended to thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking. Using frozen chicken directly can extend the cooking time significantly and may result in unevenly cooked chicken.
How Can I Thicken the Filling?
If the filling is not thick enough, consider adding more flour mixed with cold chicken broth and cook it for another 15-20 minutes. You could also use cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
What Vegetables Work Best?
The classic options include carrots, peas, and corn, but you can get creative with green beans, mushrooms, or even sweet potatoes. Adding mushrooms will give a nice umami flavor, while sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to start cooking. You can also cook the entire dish and reheat it just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or when you’re hosting guests and want to minimize last-minute cooking.
Can I Use Different Types of Cream?
Absolutely! You can use coconut cream for a dairy-free version or half-and-half for a lighter option. Each will slightly alter the flavor but still provide a creamy texture.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Skipping the Thickening Step: This will leave you with a soupy pot pie instead of the rich, creamy filling that everyone loves. Make sure to mix in the flour and cream as instructed.
- Adding Dairy Too Soon: Adding cream too early may cause it to curdle. Always add it towards the end of the cooking process to ensure a smooth, creamy texture.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly. The right balance of salt and herbs is key to a flavorful dish.
Conclusion
Crock pot chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that’s made easier by using your slow cooker. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with hearty ingredients that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re making it on a cold winter’s evening or for a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone.
Why not give it a try today and experience the comfort for yourself? Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations you’ve tried! Whether it’s switching up the vegetables, trying a new type of protein, or adding a special ingredient that makes it uniquely yours, we’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own.