Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Easy & Flaky Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, flaky Pillsbury chicken pot pie straight from the oven. Its creamy filling, tender chicken, and golden crust make it a dish that brings families together. Its creamy filling, tender chicken, and golden crust make it a dish that brings families together. By using Pillsbury pie crusts, you can effortlessly create this classic comfort food, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

---

Why Pillsbury Is Perfect for Your Chicken Pot Pie ?

Pillsbury has been a household name in baking for decades, and their refrigerated pie crusts are a game-changer for home cooks. Here’s why:

• Convenience: No need to make dough from scratch—just unroll and bake.
• Flaky Texture: Known for their light, buttery layers.
• Reliable Results: Perfect every time, even for beginner bakers.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out the Pillsbury Official Website for a variety of recipes and baking tips. Additionally, for those concerned about food safety, especially when handling chicken and dairy, the USDA Food Safety Guidelines provide excellent resources to ensure your meal is both delicious and safe.

---

Essential Ingredients for Your Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

To make this classic Pillsbury chicken pot pie dish, you’ll need the following ingredients :

• 1 package of Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup diced potatoes
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2/3 cup milk
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder

Pro Tip: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor to your filling. For more time-saving tips, check out our guide on how to make the most of rotisserie chicken.

---

Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Creating a homemade Pillsbury chicken pot pie is simpler than you might imagine. By following these steps, you’ll achieve a perfectly baked pie every time, complete with a flaky crust and creamy filling. Let’s break it down into three main stages: preparing the filling, assembling the pie, and baking it to golden perfection.

Step 1: How to Prepare the Perfect Filling for Your Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

The creamy filling of this Pillsbury chicken pot pie is rich and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:

1. Cook the Roux:
   • In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
   • Once the butter is fully melted, add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. Stir continuously to combine the butter and flour, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown. This step is crucial for thickening the filling.
2. Add the Liquids:
   • Slowly whisk in 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth and 2/3 cup of milk. Stir constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Incorporate the Chicken and Vegetables:
   • Add 2 cups of cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great), 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots, and 1/2 cup of diced potatoes to the skillet.
   • Season the filling with salt, pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir well to combine.
   • Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Assemble the Pie

Now that your filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the pie. Follow these steps for a perfectly layered pot pie:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the crust to golden perfection.
2. Prepare the Pie Dish:
   • Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking.
   • Unroll one Pillsbury pie crust and gently press it into the pie dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
3. Add the Filling:
   • Pour the prepared chicken and vegetable filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
4. Top with the Second Crust:
   • Unroll the second Pillsbury pie crust and place it over the filling.
   • Press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal them. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
   • Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

Baking is the final step to achieving a golden, flaky crust and a bubbling, flavorful filling. Here’s how to do it:

1. Bake the Pie:
   • Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes.
   • Keep an eye on the crust—it should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the filling should bubble through the slits in the top crust.
2. Cool Before Serving:
   • Once the pie is baked, your golden-brown Pillsbury chicken pot pie will be ready to serve.

For more baking tips, check out our article on how to achieve the perfect flaky crust.

---

Expert Tips for Baking the Best Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Creating the perfect Pillsbury chicken pot pie is all about mastering the details. From achieving a flaky crust to ensuring a creamy, flavorful filling, these tips will help you elevate your pot pie game. Whether you’re using Pillsbury crusts for your first or fiftieth time, this guide ensures a fail-proof Pillsbury chicken pot pie.

 

1. Perfecting the Crust

The crust is the star of any pot pie, and with Pillsbury pie crusts, you’re already halfway there. Here’s how to make it even better:

• Blind Bake the Bottom Crust:
  To prevent a soggy bottom crust, blind bake it before adding the filling. Simply prick the crust with a fork, line it with parchment paper, and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 5-7 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment before adding the filling.
• Seal the Edges Properly:
  When assembling the pie, press the edges of the top and bottom crusts together firmly to create a tight seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch and to ensure no filling leaks out during baking.
• Add Ventilation:
  Cut small slits or decorative shapes in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents the filling from bubbling over and keeps the crust crisp.
• Brush with Egg Wash:
  For a golden, shiny crust, brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water or milk) before baking.

2. Mastering the Filling

The filling is the heart of your pot pie, and getting it right is key to a delicious dish.

• Thicken the Filling Properly:
  The roux (butter and flour mixture) is essential for thickening the filling. Cook it for 1-2 minutes until golden to eliminate the raw flour taste. If your filling is still too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the simmering filling.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken:
  For added flavor and convenience, use rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time and effort.
• Balance the Vegetables:
  Use a mix of vegetables like peas, carrots, and potatoes, but don’t overcrowd the filling. Aim for a 2:1 ratio of chicken to vegetables for the perfect balance.
• Season Generously:
  Don’t skimp on seasonings! Salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder are essential, but feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or sage for extra flavor.

3. Baking Like a Pro

Baking is the final step to achieving a golden, flaky crust and a bubbling, flavorful filling.

• Preheat the Oven:
  Always preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before baking. A hot oven ensures the crust bakes evenly and becomes crispy.
• Use a Pie Crust Shield:
  If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with a pie crust shield or aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Check for Doneness:
  The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the top crust. Insert a knife into the center—if the filling is hot and the crust is crisp, it’s ready.

4. Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips for Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

• Assemble Ahead of Time:
  You can assemble the pie up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the pie is cold from the fridge.
• Freeze for Later:
  To freeze an unbaked pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, place it directly in the oven from the freezer, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheat Leftovers:
  To maintain the crust’s crispiness, reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.

5. Customizing Your Pot Pie

• Add a Cheesy Twist:
  Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the filling before adding the top crust for a cheesy, gooey surprise.
• Spice It Up:
  Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Go Mini:
  Use a muffin tin to create individual mini pot pies. Cut the pie crusts into circles, press them into the muffin cups, fill with the chicken mixture, and top with smaller crust circles. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Soggy Crust:
  Blind bake the bottom crust and ensure the filling isn’t too watery before adding it to the pie.
• Runny Filling:
  Simmer the filling longer to thicken it, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
• Burnt Edges:
  Cover the edges of the crust with foil or a pie crust shield if they brown too quickly.
• Crust Not Browning:
  Brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking to achieve a golden, shiny finish.

For more make-ahead meal ideas, visit our guide on freezing and reheating casseroles.

---

Variations of Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

• • For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas.
  • If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the flour with cornstarch.
  • To add a spicy kick, include a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the filling.
  • For individual servings, try making mini pot pies using a muffin tin.

For more creative recipe variations, explore our collection of comfort food classics with a twist.

---

Serving Suggestions for Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Pair your pot pie with these delicious sides:

• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• A glass of white wine or iced tea for a complete meal.

 

For more comfort food ideas, visit Food Network’s Comfort Food Recipes.

---

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Understanding the nutritional profile of your Pillsbury chicken pot pie can help you make healthier choices and adapt the recipe to meet specific dietary needs. Below, we break down the nutritional content, discuss ways to make the dish healthier, and provide tips for accommodating common dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Breakdown

A typical serving of Pillsbury chicken pot pie (1/6th of a 9-inch pie) contains approximately:

• Calories: 450-500
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 800-900mg

Note: These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Make It Healthier

If you’re looking to lighten up this classic comfort food, here are some simple swaps and adjustments:

1. Reduce Fat:
   • Use low-fat milk instead of whole milk.
   • Substitute olive oil or a light butter alternative for part of the butter in the roux.
2. Boost Fiber:
   • Add more vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or zucchini, to increase the fiber content.
   • Consider using a whole-grain pie crust if available.
3. Lower Sodium:
   • Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and season the filling with herbs and spices instead of salt.
   • Use fresh or frozen vegetables instead of canned, which often contain added salt.
4. Increase Protein:
   • Add extra lean chicken or incorporate plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils for a vegetarian twist.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be easily modified to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions. Here’s how:

1. Gluten-Free Option

• Replace the Pillsbury pie crust with a gluten-free pie crust (available in most grocery stores or make your own using gluten-free flour).
• Use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend (like almond or rice flour) instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the filling.

2. Vegetarian Option

• Substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.

3. Dairy-Free Option

• Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil.
• Use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk instead of regular milk.

4. Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Option

• Skip the pie crust and bake the filling in a casserole dish topped with a layer of shredded cheese or almond flour “crust.”
• Use cauliflower rice or diced cauliflower instead of potatoes to reduce carbs.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Chicken: A great source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
• Vegetables: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, promoting overall health and digestion.
• Herbs and Spices: Thyme, garlic, and pepper not only add flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

For more tips on healthy cooking, check out our guide to lightening up your favorite comfort foods.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen vegetables in Pillsbury chicken pot pie?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

Q: How long does Pillsbury chicken pot pie last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3-4 days when stored properly.

Q: Can I freeze Pillsbury chicken pot pie?
A: Yes, either before or after baking. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Q: What can I use instead of Pillsbury pie crust?
A: You can use homemade crust or other store-bought brands.

For more FAQs and troubleshooting tips, visit our baking FAQ page.

---

Conclusion

The Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is a timeless classic that combines convenience with homemade flavor. Next time you’re looking for comfort food, remember this guide to making the perfect Pillsbury chicken pot pie for any occasion. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. Happy baking!