Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Made in Under One Hour

Easy chicken pot pie recipe lovers, get ready for the ultimate cozy meal. If you’re craving the warm, comforting flavors of a classic homemade dish, this easy chicken pot pie recipe is just what you need. Loaded with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy gravy—all tucked into a golden, flaky crust—it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or using up leftover rotisserie chicken, this dish delivers big flavor with surprisingly little effort. It’s versatile, freezer-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend meal prep.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything from choosing the right ingredients to making a creamy, flavorful filling that holds together perfectly. We’ll also cover common pot pie questions, like how to keep the crust from getting soggy, how to thicken the filling, and whether heavy cream really makes a difference.

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Ready to make the best easy chicken pot pie recipe that comes out perfect every time? Let’s dig in.

Table of contents

Table of contents

What Makes This the Best Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe?

There’s something about a bubbling, savory pie that instantly says “comfort.” Imagine creamy chicken and tender vegetables, all encased in a perfectly buttery crust. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. Our easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe stands out because it simplifies every step without sacrificing any of that beloved flavor.

Uncomplicated Cooking for Ultimate Comfort

Unlike complicated recipes demanding elaborate ingredients or complex techniques, this one uses simple pantry staples. This makes it a perfect solution for a busy weeknight meal. You don’t need exotic items or special skills to achieve fantastic results.

Flexible Ingredients for Your Convenience

This Chicken Pot Pie recipe is incredibly flexible, adapting to what you have on hand. Use a store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time, or repurpose leftover turkey from a previous meal. Even frozen mixed vegetables work beautifully, eliminating chopping and prep. This flexibility ensures a truly no-fuss version that will still taste like a warm hug in a bowl! For other comforting ideas, discover delicious options like our Pumpkin Banana Loaf.

The Rich History and Enduring Appeal of Pot Pie

While many associate pot pie with classic American comfort cuisine, its origins actually trace back to medieval Europe. There, meat pies were a significant staple, particularly among the wealthy. These early versions featured incredibly thick crusts, designed more for preserving and storing the filling than for eating.

From Medieval Preservation to Modern Delight

As the concept of the meat pie traveled across oceans and centuries, the Chicken Pot Pie recipe evolved. It gradually transformed from a simple preservation method into the flaky, creamy dish we know and love today. This culinary journey highlights its enduring appeal.

The Rise of Homemade Chicken Pot Pie in America

In America, this dish soared in popularity during the mid-20th century, largely due to its convenience as a frozen meal option. However, nothing truly compares to a homemade Chicken Pot Pie recipe. The fresh flavor, the crisp crust, and the rich sauce make every minute of preparation worthwhile. With this guide, crafting your own homemade comfort food is now easier than ever!

Ingredients for Your Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

To make this easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe a success, you’ll need just a handful of everyday ingredients. They work together to create that rich flavor and creamy texture we all love. Here’s what to gather before you start:

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Purpose	Notes
Pie Crust	Forms the flaky top and bottom layers	Refrigerated or homemade both work well
Butter	Adds richness, helps make the roux	Salted or unsalted, your choice
Onion	Builds the flavor base	White onion preferred; dried flakes work in a pinch
All-Purpose Flour	Thickens the filling	Key to a smooth, creamy gravy
Salt & Pepper	Seasoning essentials	Adjust to taste
Chicken Broth	Adds deep, savory flavor	Low-sodium recommended for better control of saltiness
Milk or Cream	Creates a creamy consistency	2% milk, whole milk, or heavy cream work equally well
Cooked Chicken	Main protein source, saves time	Shredded rotisserie or leftovers are perfect
Mixed Frozen Veggies	Adds color, texture, and nutrition	Classic pea, carrot, corn, green bean mix is ideal

Each of these ingredients plays an important role in achieving the perfect balance of texture and taste in your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe. For instance, the butter and flour combine to create a roux, which thickens the filling into a luscious gravy. The broth and milk then round out the gravy’s flavor and creaminess. Using pre-cooked chicken is a key time-saver, making this a genuinely quick weeknight option. Looking for inspiration? Try Earl Grey Cookies for a unique dessert to follow your savory pie.

Best Substitutes and Ingredient Swaps for Customization

One of the best parts about a homemade Chicken Pot Pie recipe is its incredible flexibility. You can easily make substitutions and tweaks based on dietary needs or what you already have in your kitchen.

Smart Swaps for Your Pot Pie

• No Pie Crust? No problem! Try using biscuit dough or puff pastry for a different, delicious twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Simply swap out the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives like vegan margarine and oat milk.
• Gluten-Free Need: Use a gluten-free flour blend and a gluten-free pie crust to make the dish celiac-safe without compromising taste.
• No Chicken? This recipe is versatile! Use leftover turkey, or for a vegetarian option, try cooked tofu or lentils.
• Fresh Veggies Instead of Frozen: If you prefer fresh, simply steam them first to soften them before adding to the filling.

These simple swaps make it easy to adapt this easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe to your lifestyle, ensuring it always delivers fantastic results. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, managing dietary restrictions, or just trying to use up ingredients, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and delicious. Check out our Healthy & Fresh meals if you’re looking for light yet satisfying options.

The Secret to Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Filling

The heart of any easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe is its creamy filling. That rich, velvety texture that coats the chicken and vegetables doesn’t just happen on its own. A well-balanced blend of fat, flour, and liquid is the ultimate key to achieving this delicious consistency.

How to Achieve That Velvety Texture

The magic begins with a classic roux—a foundational mixture of butter and flour. This combination is cooked together until bubbly, which effectively thickens your gravy and creates a luxurious base. Once that roux is perfectly smooth, warm liquids, such as flavorful chicken broth and milk (or cream), are gradually added. This is the crucial stage where the mixture starts to transform into the comforting, luscious consistency characteristic of a perfect pot pie.

Tips for Enhanced Creaminess

To enhance the creaminess of your Chicken Pot Pie recipe without making it overly heavy, consider these options:

• Lighter Option: Use 2% milk for a less rich, everyday version.
• Classic Richness: Opt for whole milk or half-and-half for a more traditional, satisfying taste.
• Ultra-Indulgent: For a truly decadent filling, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the very end of cooking.

Many home cooks often wonder, “What makes chicken pot pie creamy without it turning soupy?” The secret lies in consistent, slow stirring and giving the flour sufficient time to fully activate its thickening powers. Rushing this step often leads to a runny filling or undesirable clumps.

Using Heavy Cream vs. Milk: Which One Works Best?

Choosing between different dairy options can impact the final richness of your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide what’s best for your kitchen and preferences:

Liquid Options Compared for Your Pot Pie

Liquid Option	Creaminess	Calories	Best Use
2% Milk	Mild	Lower	Everyday, lighter Chicken Pot Pie
Whole Milk	Medium	Moderate	Classic richness for your pot pie
Heavy Cream	High	High	Special occasion, very rich pies
Heavy Whipping Cream	Very High	High	Ultra-rich texture; extremely indulgent

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So, can you use heavy whipping cream instead of milk in chicken pot pie? Absolutely! In fact, many culinary enthusiasts find that it adds a subtle buttery sweetness that milk simply cannot match. However, for those monitoring fat content, a balanced combination of broth and milk keeps things lighter yet still incredibly flavorful.

Advanced Creaminess Tricks

For next-level silkiness in your Chicken Pot Pie recipe filling, consider this little-known trick among seasoned home chefs: add a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese near the end of cooking. Important: Do not let the mixture boil after adding these, as it can cause separation.

By perfecting the filling’s texture, you elevate the entire dish from simply good to truly unforgettable. The best part? You can easily tweak the ingredients depending on your taste, pantry availability, or specific dietary needs. Discover other great ideas like our Pumpkin Banana Loaf to serve alongside your savory pot pie as a cozy dessert.

How to Make Pot Pie Gravy From Scratch

A creamy, flavorful gravy is truly the unsung hero of any easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe. It’s what binds the filling together and delivers that luxurious texture everyone craves. Getting it right is essential, but don’t worry—it’s simpler than it sounds to create a perfect homemade gravy.

Ingredients for the Perfect Gravy

To master your Chicken Pot Pie recipe gravy, you’ll need just a few key ingredients. These components work in harmony to create a rich and smooth sauce:

Ingredient	Function	Notes
Butter	Fat base	Adds flavor and richness; can be salted or unsalted
All-Purpose Flour	Thickener	Combines with butter to make the essential roux
Chicken Broth or Stock	Liquid base	Provides savory depth; low-sodium is preferred for better control
Milk or Heavy Cream	Adds creaminess	Adjust based on your desired texture and richness
Salt & Pepper	Enhances flavor	Always start with a small amount and taste as you go
Optional: Garlic Powder, Thyme, Parsley	Seasoning for depth of flavor	Adds subtle layers of aromatic flavor, use sparingly

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Your gravy-making journey begins with the butter and flour roux. You’ll cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes over medium heat. This crucial step removes any raw flour taste and sets the stage for a perfectly smooth, lump-free texture.

Next, gradually whisk in warm chicken broth, followed by your milk or heavy cream. Keep stirring continuously as the mixture slowly thickens and takes on that desirable glossy, gravy-like consistency.

Don’t forget to season! A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper can dramatically elevate the flavor. Herbs like dried thyme and fresh parsley also work beautifully here – just be careful not to overdo it, as a little goes a long way.

Step-by-Step Process for a Rich, Flavorful Sauce

Follow these simple steps for a foolproof Chicken Pot Pie recipe gravy that will make your filling unforgettable:

1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional): If using, sauté diced onions until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Create the Roux: Whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes; this cooks out the raw flour taste.
4. Add Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
5. Incorporate Dairy: Gradually add the milk or cream, continuing to stir as the mixture begins to thicken.
6. Season to Taste: Season the gravy with salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs.
7. Simmer and Thicken: Allow the gravy to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s thick enough to generously coat the back of a spoon.

Quick Gravy Tips:

• Too Thick? If your gravy becomes too dense, simply whisk in a splash more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Too Thin? Let it simmer a little longer over low heat, stirring occasionally, allowing it to naturally reduce and thicken. Crucially, avoid adding more flour at this stage, as it can lead to clumps.

Creating the perfect pot pie gravy isn’t just about the right ingredients—it’s about timing, temperature, and texture. Take your time, stir gently, and taste as you go. The reward is a rich, creamy filling that truly takes your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe from homemade to absolutely heavenly.

For more from-scratch cooking ideas that bring big flavor with better-for-you ingredients, don’t miss our Healthy & Fresh section.

The Best Pie Crust for Pot Pie

The crust is undeniably the crown of any easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe. But should you meticulously make it from scratch, or simply grab a convenient store-bought version? The best choice ultimately depends on your available time, personal taste preferences, and your confidence in the kitchen.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Crust: What Works Best

Both options offer distinct advantages for your Chicken Pot Pie recipe.

Store-Bought Pie Crust for Convenience

If your goal is to save time without sacrificing taste, refrigerated pie crusts (like those from Pillsbury) are an excellent solution. They’re consistently flaky, bake up beautifully golden, and require zero rolling or chilling. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before unrolling to prevent any cracks.

• Pros: Quick preparation, highly convenient, and delivers a consistent texture every time.
• Cons: May contain preservatives; offers limited options for flavor customization.

Homemade Pie Crust for Superior Flavor

For those who genuinely enjoy baking from scratch, nothing quite compares to the rich flavor and tender texture of a homemade butter crust. Using just a few simple ingredients—flour, butter, salt, and water—you can create a crust that’s incredibly rich, delightfully crisp, and full of character.

• Pros: Offers superior flavor, contains no additives, and can be perfectly tailored to your liking.
• Cons: More time-consuming to prepare and requires a bit of practice to perfect.

Regardless of which path you choose for your Chicken Pot Pie recipe crust, the key to success is to avoid overworking the dough. Whether you’re gently pressing it into a pie plate or carefully rolling it out, gentle handling always results in the most tender crust.

Tips to Avoid a Soggy Bottom Crust

There’s one common issue that can detract from an otherwise perfect pot pie: a soggy bottom crust. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies, you can easily keep your bottom crust as wonderfully flaky as the top.

Essential Strategies for a Crisp Bottom Crust

1. Pre-bake (Blind Bake) the Bottom Crust: If you’re using a double-crust Chicken Pot Pie recipe, consider partially baking the bottom crust. Bake it for about 8–10 minutes before adding the filling. This creates a protective barrier against moisture.
2. Brush with Egg White: A quick, light coat of egg white brushed onto the bottom crust before baking can effectively seal it. This helps the crust stay crisp and prevents it from absorbing too much moisture from the filling.
3. Use a Hot Filling: Always pour warm—not cold—filling into your pie crust. This helps to jumpstart the baking process for the bottom crust immediately, preventing it from soaking and becoming soggy.
4. Vent the Top Crust: Remember to cut several slits or designs in the top crust before baking. These vents are crucial for allowing steam to escape during cooking, which reduces internal moisture and, consequently, reduces the risk of sogginess.
5. Bake on the Lower Rack: Placing your Chicken Pot Pie recipe on the lower third of your oven ensures that the bottom crust receives ample direct heat. This helps it to fully cook and crisp up properly.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for more gravy and fewer carbs, simply skip the bottom crust altogether! Just pour the delicious filling into a baking dish and top it with a single sheet of crust. It’s a lighter option that’s still utterly delicious and satisfying.

For more flaky crust recipes and clever shortcuts for your meals, be sure to check out our Quick & Easy Meals section.

Step-by-Step Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Guide

Let’s bring everything together with this foolproof, easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe walkthrough. Whether you’re utilizing convenient leftover rotisserie chicken or preparing your poultry from scratch, the entire process is designed to be fast, remarkably simple, and ultimately delicious.

Preparing Your Core Ingredients: Chicken and Veggies

The foundation of any great Chicken Pot Pie recipe lies in perfectly cooked chicken and tender vegetables. Here’s how to get them ready efficiently:

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

You have excellent options for quickly preparing the chicken for your pot pie:

• Boiling Method: For raw chicken, boil boneless chicken breasts in lightly salted water for about 12-15 minutes until fully cooked. Then, easily shred them with two forks.
• Pressure Cooker Speed: For even faster prep, a pressure cooker can significantly reduce cooking time for raw chicken.
• Rotisserie Shortcut: The absolute easiest route is to use a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply shred about 2-3 cups of meat directly from the bird.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Using thawed frozen mixed vegetables is a fantastic time-saver for your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe. Look for blends that typically include peas, carrots, corn, and green beans.

• Fresh Twist: If you prefer fresh vegetables, dice your own blend of carrots, celery, and green beans, then steam them briefly until just tender. This ensures they cook evenly in the pie.
• Important Note: Avoid adding raw, hard vegetables directly to the pie filling. They can release excess water during baking and soften unevenly, affecting the final texture.

Crafting the Heart of Your Pot Pie: The Creamy Gravy

The rich, savory gravy is what truly brings your Chicken Pot Pie recipe to life. Here’s how to make it perfectly:

Step 3: Make the Velvety Gravy

In a medium saucepan, follow these steps for a lump-free, flavorful gravy:

1. Melt Butter & Sauté: Melt 1/3 cup of butter, then add about 1/2 a diced onion. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Form the Roux: Stir in 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux. This step is crucial for thickening.
3. Whisk in Liquids: Gradually whisk in 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Then, pour in 2/3 cup of milk or cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble.
4. Combine & Simmer: Gently stir in your shredded chicken and prepared vegetables. Let the entire mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Smart Tip: For an added nutritional boost and deeper flavor, consider sneaking in finely chopped spinach or sliced mushrooms, as highlighted in our Healthy & Fresh category.

Assembling and Baking Your Perfect Pot Pie

With your filling ready, the final steps of assembling and baking your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe are straightforward and quick.

Step 4: Prepare the Crust and Assemble

• Bottom Crust: Roll out your bottom pie crust and carefully press it into a 9-inch pie plate. Trim any excess edges, leaving a slight overhang.
• Add Filling: Pour the hot, creamy filling into the prepared crust. Be sure to leave about 1/2 inch of space from the top edge to prevent overflow during baking.
• Top Crust & Seal: Gently cover the filling with the second pie crust. Trim any major overhang and then pinch or crimp the edges firmly to seal the top and bottom crusts together.

Step 5: Add Vents and Egg Wash

These small steps make a big difference in the final appearance and texture of your Chicken Pot Pie:

• Vent for Steam: Using a sharp knife, slice 3-5 small slits or create decorative vents in the top crust. This allows steam to escape, preventing a soggy crust and ensuring even baking.
• Golden Finish: For that beautiful golden-brown, glossy finish, lightly brush the top crust with an egg wash (simply whisk 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water).

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Now it’s time to bake your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe!

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
• Baking Setup: Place the assembled pie on a sturdy baking sheet. This catches any potential drips and makes it easier to transfer.
• Bake Time: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is a rich golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling vigorously at the edges.
• Crust Protection Tip: If the edges of your pie crust start to brown too quickly, loosely cover them with strips of aluminum foil or use a pie crust protector halfway through the baking time.

Step 7: Let it Rest Before Serving

Patience is key for the final step!

• Cool Down: Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Pot Pie rest for 5-10 minutes before attempting to slice it. This crucial resting period allows the hot, creamy filling to firm up slightly, making for much cleaner and easier serving.

To complete your comforting meal, consider serving your hearty pot pie with a fragrant, sweet finish like our Earl Grey Cookies.

Baking and Serving Your Chicken Pot Pie

Once your pie is expertly assembled, it’s time to transform those creamy, savory layers into a bubbling, golden masterpiece. Achieving the perfect bake is crucial for the ideal texture, rich flavor, and stunning visual appeal of your easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe.

Ideal Oven Temperatures and Baking Times

To ensure your Chicken Pot Pie bakes to absolute perfection, follow these key guidelines for temperature and timing:

• Preheat Oven to 425°F (218°C): This higher temperature is essential. It ensures the pie crust crisps quickly, developing that signature flaky shell, while simultaneously heating the hearty filling all the way through.
• Optimal Rack Placement: Position your pie on the middle or lower oven rack. This strategic placement promotes even browning on the bottom crust, a crucial step in preventing dreaded sogginess.
• Bake for 30 to 40 Minutes: Keep a close eye on these signs of doneness:
  • The top crust has achieved a beautiful, golden-brown hue.
  • The savory filling is visibly bubbling through the slits in the crust, indicating it’s hot and ready.
  • The crust edges aren’t over-browning; if they are, gently tent them with aluminum foil or a pie crust protector halfway through the baking time.

Pro Tip: Always place your Chicken Pot Pie on a sturdy baking sheet before putting it in the oven. This simple step catches any potential overflow, especially if your delicious filling reaches close to the crust’s edge, keeping your oven clean.

For more crowd-pleasing dinners that bake beautifully every time, explore our Quick & Easy Meals collection.

How to Know When Your Pot Pie is Perfectly Done

It’s not just about how the crust looks; ensuring the inside of your Chicken Pot Pie recipe is as perfect as the outside is equally important.

Confirming Doneness Like a Pro

• Internal Temperature Check: For ultimate peace of mind, especially if you started with pre-cooked chicken and a chilled filling, use a kitchen thermometer. Insert it into the center of the pie to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Visual Cues from the Filling: The gravy should be visibly bubbling vigorously near the edges or through the top crust’s slits. If it remains quiet after 30 minutes, allow it another 5-10 minutes of baking time.
• Crust Texture Confirmation: The crust should feel undeniably crisp to the touch, not soft or doughy. An undercooked crust often signals that the oven temperature was too cool or that the filling was too cold when it went into the oven.

How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Without a Mess

After all your effort in crafting this delightful easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe, don’t rush the final step! Allowing your pie to rest ensures a clean, satisfying slice.

The Art of Serving Your Pot Pie

• The Golden Rest Period: Once your Chicken Pot Pie comes out of the oven, let it rest on a wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the hot filling to firm up and set, making it much easier to slice clean, cohesive portions instead of a hot, runny mess.
• Effortless Slicing: Use a sharp knife to score through the crust before attempting to lift out portions.
• Clean Portions: Lift pieces out with a wide pie server or a flat spatula, ensuring each serving remains intact.
• Perfect Pairings: Complement the rich, savory goodness of your pot pie with a light side salad, some simply steamed greens, or a crusty piece of fresh bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Want a cozy dessert to follow your hearty main course? Check out our Pumpkin Banana Loaf—a sweet, spiced treat that perfectly complements the savory richness of Chicken Pot Pie.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips for Your Chicken Pot Pie

One reason this easy Chicken Pot Pie recipe has become a household favorite is its incredible flexibility. Whether you’re planning for a busy weekday dinner or prepping for guests ahead of time, it’s effortless to integrate this comforting dish into your schedule.

How to Prep in Advance for Busy Days

Taking a little time upfront can save you significant effort later. Our Chicken Pot Pie recipe is perfectly suited for advance preparation.

Make-Ahead Filling for Convenience

You can prepare the creamy, savory filling up to a full day in advance.

• Cool Completely: Once your chicken and veggie mixture is cooked, allow it to cool entirely to room temperature.
• Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container and store it in the fridge.
• Re-Thicken (Optional): The gravy might thicken slightly during refrigeration, but don’t worry—it will loosen beautifully as it bakes.
• Ready to Bake: When you’re set to assemble, simply warm the filling gently on the stovetop until it’s hot and easily pourable. Then, proceed with assembling your pie as usual and bake according to the standard instructions.

Smart Tip: Warming the filling before assembly is a crucial step! This helps prevent a soggy bottom crust and ensures your pie cooks evenly throughout.

Freezing Options: Filling vs. Whole Pie

Freezing portions of your Chicken Pot Pie recipe is a brilliant strategy for future effortless meals. Here are two highly effective freezer-friendly methods:

Option 1: Freeze the Filling Separately

This method offers ultimate flexibility when you’re ready to bake.

• Cool & Pack: Allow the cooked filling to cool completely. Transfer it into a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring you label it clearly with the date.
• Freezing Duration: Freeze the filling for up to 1 month for best quality.
• Thawing & Assembly: Thaw the frozen filling overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it gently on the stove. Once warm, you can then assemble it into a fresh pie crust and bake.

Option 2: Freeze the Assembled Pie (Unbaked)

For maximum convenience, you can freeze the entire pie before baking.

• Choose Your Pan Wisely: Prepare your Chicken Pot Pie in a metal or disposable aluminum pie pan. Avoid using glass, as it may shatter if transferred directly from the freezer to a hot oven.
• Wrap Tightly: Cover the unbaked pie tightly with a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date.
• Freezing Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Baking from Frozen: To bake directly from frozen, leave the foil on and bake at 425°F (218°C) for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is visibly bubbling.

Crucial Pro Tip: Avoid freezing a fully baked Chicken Pot Pie recipe. While possible, the reheated version often ends up with a significantly soggier crust, especially compared to baking from frozen.

Storage After Baking

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of your delicious Chicken Pot Pie (a rare occurrence for many!), here’s how to keep them fresh and tasty:

• Prompt Refrigeration: Refrigerate any leftover slices within 2 hours of baking to maintain food safety.
• Airtight Storage: Store individual slices or larger portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating for Crispness: To best preserve the crispy crust, reheat individual portions in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is an option, but the crust won’t be as crisp.

Looking for more clever make-ahead meals that fit a busy lifestyle? Don’t miss our Healthy & Fresh recipes that work just as well for weeknight dinners as they do for meal prep.

FAQ About Easy Chicken Pot Pie