If you’re looking for a comforting meal that requires minimal effort, then this Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce all encased in a flaky crust. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious flavor but also in the convenience of cooking everything in one pot. With just a little prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply craving some home-cooked goodness, this Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie offers warmth and satisfaction that everyone will appreciate. In just a few hours, you’ll have a steaming bowl of comfort ready to serve.
Imagine walking into your home after a long day to the inviting aroma of chicken pot pie wafting through the air. It’s not just about taste; it’s about creating memories with loved ones around the dinner table. This recipe allows you to enjoy quality time without being stuck in the kitchen for hours. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients! Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this dish.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness; peel them before slicing into bite-sized pieces
- Frozen Peas: These provide color and texture; no need to thaw before adding them to the crock pot
- Celery: Dice fresh celery for added crunch and flavor in every bite
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while ensuring rich flavor
For the Sauce:
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This acts as the base of your sauce; opt for low-fat versions if desired
- Poultry Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to taste preferences
For Serving:
- Puff Pastry Sheets: These create a flaky topping; thaw them beforehand according to package instructions
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the carrots and celery into bite-sized pieces. Cut the chicken breasts into smaller chunks for quicker cooking.
Step 2: Layer Everything in the Crock Pot
In your crock pot, layer the chicken first followed by carrots, celery, peas, and any other desired vegetables.
Step 3: Mix Your Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine cream of chicken soup with chicken broth and poultry seasoning. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Pour Over Ingredients
Pour the sauce mixture over the layered ingredients in your crock pot. Ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Cook on Low
Set your crock pot on low heat and cook for about six hours or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 6: Add Puff Pastry
About thirty minutes before serving, place thawed puff pastry sheets on top of the mixture in your crock pot. Cover again to allow it to cook through.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme before serving for an aromatic touch
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
This Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: To prepare this dish in advance, chop vegetables and cook chicken ahead of time. You can refrigerate these components for up to 24 hours before assembling. This will save you about 30 minutes of prep when you’re ready to cook.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the pot pie in a freezer-safe container for up to three months, ensuring it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen pie overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until heated through. If reheating from the refrigerator, warm it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until hot.
Suggestions for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
One common mistake when preparing Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is overcooking the chicken. When you cook chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. To prevent this, ensure you monitor the cooking time closely. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs can help, as they tend to stay moist when cooked in a slow cooker. Additionally, consider adding the chicken halfway through the cooking process if you are using a longer cook time. This method helps maintain the chicken’s juiciness while allowing other ingredients to meld their flavors.
Don’t Skip the Vegetables
Skipping vegetables in your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie can lead to a bland dish. Vegetables not only add essential nutrients but also enhance flavor and texture. Carrots, peas, and potatoes are classic additions that contribute to a hearty filling. Make sure to chop them uniformly so they cook evenly. You can also experiment with seasonal vegetables for added variety and nutrition. Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste even more. Remember, vibrant vegetables bring color and life to your pot pie.
Be Mindful of Thickeners
Using too much or too little thickener can ruin your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie’s consistency. If you want a creamy filling, opt for options like cream of chicken soup or adding flour at the end of cooking to thicken the mixture further. On the other hand, if your filling turns out too thick, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk at the end can balance it out nicely. Always stir well after adding any thickening agents to ensure an even texture throughout.
Choose the Right Crust
The crust is an essential part of any pot pie, including Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie. Many people make the mistake of using a crust that is not suitable for slow cooking. Opt for a refrigerated pie crust or biscuit dough that can hold up during long cooking times. Alternatively, some prefer topping their filling with puff pastry for a flaky finish. If you decide to use a crust, add it towards the end of cooking to avoid sogginess and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
To prepare Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie, gather ingredients like boneless chicken breasts or thighs, mixed vegetables (such as peas and carrots), cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and seasonings like salt and pepper. For the crust, you can use pre-made pie crusts or biscuit dough according to your preference. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley enhance flavor but are optional. Make sure all ingredients are prepared before starting your slow cooker for the best results.
How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
Cooking time for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie depends on your slow cooker settings. Generally, on low heat, you should allow about 6-8 hours of cook time; on high heat, aim for 4-5 hours. These times may vary based on your specific slow cooker model and quantity of ingredients used. To ensure everything is perfectly cooked without being dry or mushy, check doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I prepare Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time is convenient and allows flavors to meld beautifully. You can assemble all ingredients in advance and store them in your refrigerator overnight before cooking them in your crock pot. This method ensures freshness while making mealtime easier during busy weekdays or special occasions. Just remember that if you’re using raw chicken in advance, it must be kept refrigerated until it’s ready to be cooked.
How do I store leftovers from Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
Storing leftovers from your delicious Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is simple! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers for refrigeration. It will typically last up to three days in the fridge if stored properly. For longer storage options, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers or bags; this way, they can last up to three months in the freezer without losing quality. Reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is an easy yet satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Remembering key tips such as not overcooking chicken and incorporating flavorful vegetables will elevate your recipe significantly. Utilizing appropriate thickeners ensures just the right consistency while choosing a suitable crust contributes greatly to overall enjoyment. With these guidelines in mind along with handy FAQs covering ingredient preparation and storage methods, you’ll create a delightful meal that everyone will love! Enjoy making this comforting dish today!
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting and convenient dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy sauce all enveloped in a flaky crust, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Just toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. The delightful aroma will greet you as you arrive home, promising a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort. Not only is this pot pie delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ingredients. Whether you’re preparing a special occasion or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, this easy Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie will impress everyone!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups diced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 2 sheets puff pastry
Instructions
- Dice the carrots and celery; cut the chicken breasts into smaller chunks.
- Layer chicken, carrots, celery, and peas in the crock pot.
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and poultry seasoning until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Cook on low for about 6 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, place thawed puff pastry sheets on top of the mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of pot pie (approximately 290g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
