This IS How You Make The Most Amazing Chicken Pot Pie
THIS IS HOW YOU MAKE THE MOST AMAZING CHICKEN POT PIE! is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by ThatGirlCanCook! on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 1 hr 30 min
Cost: $10.54 total, $1.76 per serving
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup All-Purpose Flour (for roux, sifted)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into small cubes, softened)
- 2 cups Chicken Breast (cooked and diced (or use rotisserie chicken))
- 2 medium Carrots (peeled and diced)
- 2 stalks Celery Stalks (diced)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Frozen Peas (thawed)
- 2 cups Chicken Broth (low‑sodium)
- 1 cup Whole Milk (preferably 2% or whole)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Thyme (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 pieces Store‑Bought Pie Crust (9‑inch double crust, thawed if frozen)
- 1 Egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and dice the carrots, dice the celery, and finely chop the onion. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
Time: PT10M
Cook the Chicken
If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then poach in simmering water for 12‑15 minutes until cooked through. Remove, let cool, and dice into 1‑inch cubes. (Alternatively, shred rotisserie chicken.)
Time: PT15M
Temperature: 212°F
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 Tbsp butter. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and vegetables begin to soften, about 5‑6 minutes.
Time: PT6M
Temperature: 350°F
Make the Roux
Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet. Add the remaining 2 Tbsp butter and 1/3 cup flour. Stir constantly for 2‑3 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, forming a smooth paste.
Time: PT3M
Temperature: 350°F
Create the Creamy Sauce
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the milk, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 4‑5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Combine Filling Ingredients
Stir the cooked chicken, thawed peas, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper into the sauce. Heat through for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly while you assemble the pie.
Time: PT4M
Roll Out the Bottom Crust
On a lightly floured surface, roll one pie crust to fit a 9‑inch pie dish. Gently press into the dish, trimming any excess.
Time: PT5M
Add the Filling
Pour the chicken‑vegetable filling into the crust, spreading evenly.
Time: PT2M
Roll Out and Place the Top Crust
Roll the second crust and lay it over the filling. Trim excess dough, then crimp the edges to seal. Cut 4‑5 small slits in the top to vent steam.
Time: PT5M
Bake the Pot Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in a pre‑heated oven at 400°F for 30‑35 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Time: PT35M
Temperature: 400°F
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 15g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Contains gluten, Contains dairy, Contains egg
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten, Egg
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour, Gluten‑free all‑purpose flour
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Olive oil (use less for flavor)
- Instead of Chicken Breast: Cooked turkey, Cooked ham
- Instead of Carrots: Parsnips, Sweet potatoes (smaller dice)
- Instead of Celery Stalks: Fennel bulb, Leek
- Instead of Onion: Shallot, Green onion (white part only)
- Instead of Frozen Peas: Fresh peas, Corn kernels
- Instead of Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth, Water with bouillon cube
- Instead of Whole Milk: Half‑and‑half, Heavy cream (use less), Unsweetened almond milk (for dairy‑free)
- Instead of Fresh Thyme: Dried thyme (1/3 tsp), Herbes de Provence
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Store‑Bought Pie Crust: Homemade flaky pastry, Puff pastry sheets
- Instead of Egg: Milk wash, Cream wash
Equipment Needed
- Large Skillet
- Medium Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Baking Sheet
- Pastry Brush (optional)
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cooking the roux to the proper color without burning.
- Ensuring the sauce thickens before adding the filling.
- Keeping the crust chilled until baking to avoid sogginess.
- Sealing the crust edges and venting the top to prevent steam buildup.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and speed.
- Chill the rolled crusts for 10 minutes before baking to improve flakiness.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle autumnal note.
Troubleshooting
Soggy bottom crust
Pre‑bake the bottom crust for 8‑10 minutes before adding the filling, or ensure the filling is thickened well before assembling.
Crust not browning
Brush the top with egg wash and bake at a full 400°F; if still pale, place the pie under the broiler for 1‑2 minutes, watching closely.
Filling too runny
Cook the sauce a little longer to achieve a thicker consistency, or add an extra tablespoon of flour to the roux.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cover tightly and store for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked (assemble, but do not bake) for up to 2 months; bake from frozen adding 10‑15 minutes to bake time.
Room temperature: Not recommended; pot pie should be refrigerated or frozen.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the filling up to step 6 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Assemble the pie (without baking) and freeze; bake directly from frozen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of chicken pot pie in American cuisine?
Chicken pot pie is a classic American comfort food that dates back to colonial times when settlers combined European pastry techniques with locally available poultry and vegetables. It became a staple for hearty family meals, especially during colder months, symbolizing warmth and home cooking.
What are the traditional regional variations of chicken pot pie in the United States?
In the Midwest, pot pies often feature a buttery biscuit topping instead of a flaky crust. In the South, a creamy, corn‑based filling with okra is common, while New England versions may include a richer gravy and herbs like sage.
How is chicken pot pie traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served hot straight from the oven, often accompanied by a simple green salad or steamed green beans. Some families like to garnish with fresh parsley for color and a touch of freshness.
During what occasions is chicken pot pie traditionally enjoyed in American culture?
Chicken pot pie is popular for family dinners, holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving leftovers, and as a comforting meal on chilly fall or winter evenings. It’s also a go‑to dish for potlucks because it can be made ahead and reheated.
What makes chicken pot pie special or unique in American comfort food cuisine?
Its combination of a flaky pastry crust with a creamy, savory filling creates a textural contrast that is both satisfying and nostalgic. The dish embodies the American tradition of turning simple pantry staples into a hearty, crowd‑pleasing meal.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for chicken pot pie versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include chicken, carrots, celery, onions, peas, butter, flour, chicken broth, milk, and a wheat‑based pastry crust. Acceptable substitutes are rotisserie chicken for convenience, frozen mixed vegetables, gluten‑free crusts, or dairy‑free milk alternatives.
What other American dishes pair well with chicken pot pie?
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted Brussels sprouts, or simple buttered corn on the cob complement the richness of the pot pie. For a full meal, serve with homemade apple crisp for dessert.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making chicken pot pie?
Common mistakes include overcooking the chicken, using a runny sauce that makes the crust soggy, and not sealing the crust edges properly, which can cause steam leaks. Following the critical steps—proper roux, thickened sauce, and chilled crust—prevents these issues.
Why does this chicken pot pie recipe use a butter‑flour roux instead of cornstarch slurry?
A butter‑flour roux creates a richer, velvety sauce that complements the pastry crust, while cornstarch can give a glossy but thinner texture. The roux also adds a subtle toasted flavor that enhances the overall comfort‑food profile.
Can I make this chicken pot pie ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the filling up to step 6 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Assemble the pie (with crust) and either bake immediately or freeze unbaked; bake from frozen adding 10‑15 minutes to the bake time.
What does the YouTube channel ThatGirlCanCook! specialize in?
The YouTube channel ThatGirlCanCook! focuses on easy, family‑friendly recipes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients. The host emphasizes simple techniques, minimal prep, and comforting dishes that appeal to home cooks of all skill levels.
How does the YouTube channel ThatGirlCanCook!'s approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
ThatGirlCanCook! prioritizes quick, no‑fuss recipes with clear, upbeat narration and often uses pantry staples, whereas many other channels may focus on elaborate plating or exotic cuisines. Her style is relatable, encouraging viewers to enjoy cooking without intimidation.
Last updated: August 28, 2026








