When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the warmth and heartiness of a chicken pot pie. This delightful meal brings together tender chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy sauce all enveloped in a flaky crust. Using a crock pot to prepare this dish not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of this classic dish—your stomach will surely growl in anticipation!
Why We Love This Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about chicken pot pie. This particular recipe shines because it brings the ease of a slow cooker into the mix. You can toss in your ingredients, set it, and forget it while it cooks to perfection. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce makes for a filling dish that pleases the palate. Plus, the variety offered in this recipe means you can customize it to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner option or meal prep for the week ahead, this crock pot chicken pot pie checks all the boxes!
Ingredients about Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
To create this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pie crust or biscuit dough (regular or gluten-free)
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Directions
Making crock pot chicken pot pie is a breeze! First, start by prepping your ingredients: chop the onion, garlic, and any other vegetables you enjoy. With your chopping board clean, place your chicken at the bottom of the crock pot. It’s important that the chicken is the base since it’ll absorb all the flavors as it cooks.
Now it’s time to layer the vegetables. Pile on the chopped carrots, peas, and corn on top of the chicken. This creates a colorful, nutritious base for your dish. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. When it’s perfectly melted, whisk in the flour until it turns golden. This step creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce.
Next, gradually add the chicken broth and cream, continuing to whisk until you have a smooth sauce. The combination of liquids makes this dish extra creamy and rich. Once your sauce is ready, pour it over the chicken and vegetables in the crock pot. Don’t forget to season your mix with thyme, sage, salt, and pepper, then give it a gentle stir to make sure everything is well-coated.
Cover your crock pot and set it to low heat, allowing it to cook for about 4 to 6 hours. This lengthy cooking process allows all the flavors to come together beautifully. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, gather your pie crust or biscuit dough. Lay it over the mixture in the crock pot, ensuring it covers the filling generously. Cover again and let it steam until it’s cooked through. Alternatively, you could bake it in a preheated oven until it’s golden brown. Serve it with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Serving your crock pot chicken pot pie can take the experience to another level. You can scoop out generous portions straight from the crock pot and serve it hot. Its comforting warmth pairs beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread, which is perfect for dipping into that creamy filling. The bright colors of the peas and carrots make for a visually appealing plate.
You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor. Consider pairing your dish with a refreshing drink, perhaps an iced tea or lemonade, to balance the richness of the pie. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy dinner at home, or an easy meal prep option, crock pot chicken pot pie is a dish that brings comfort to your table and warmth to your heart.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
- Choosing the Right Chicken: Opt for skinless chicken breast or thighs based on your preference. Both parts provide great flavor, but thighs tend to be juicier.
- Fresh Vegetables: While frozen vegetables are convenient, using fresh ones can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish. If you want to go that route, just chop them up and mix them in.
- Get Creative with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste. Some people enjoy adding a pinch of paprika or a bit of rosemary for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Cooking Time: If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for about 2 to 3 hours, but for best results, low and slow is the way to go.
- Check for Thickness: If the filling appears too runny, simply remove the lid from the crock pot and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour. This will allow some of the liquid to evaporate, thickening your mixture.
How to Store Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Storing your crock pot chicken pot pie is easy and convenient. Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This makes for excellent meal prep, as you’ll have a hearty dish ready to go for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
If you want to store it for an extended period, consider freezing it. Portion out your chicken pot pie in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing all air to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Variation of Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
One of the best aspects of this crock pot chicken pot pie recipe is its flexibility. If you’re looking for a variation to switch things up, consider these options:
- Vegetable Medley: You can incorporate other vegetables like green beans, potatoes, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional profile and flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the filling right before serving for a refreshing twist.
- Flavored Cream: Instead of using plain heavy cream or milk, consider using cream with added flavors such as garlic or herb-infused options.
- Vegan Adaptation: To make this dish vegan-friendly, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or lentils, use plant-based broth, and swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.
- Dough Choices: If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pie crust or biscuit dough to meet your dietary needs without compromising taste.
FAQ
What is crock pot chicken pot pie?
Crock pot chicken pot pie is a one-pot meal that combines chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, topped with either a pie crust or biscuit dough for a comforting dish cooked slowly in a crock pot.
How long does it take to cook?
It typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat in a crock pot.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well and can save you prep time, though fresh vegetables may enhance flavor and texture.
What can I serve with chicken pot pie?
Consider serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a satisfying meal that balances flavors and textures.
By mastering this crock pot chicken pot pie, you’ll have a go-to comfort food recipe that’s not only delicious but also adaptable to your tastes and preferences. Enjoy every heartwarming bite!
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs Opt for skinless for less fat.
- 1 cup chopped carrots Fresh carrots are recommended.
- 1 cup peas Can use frozen peas if preferred.
- 1 cup corn kernels Fresh, frozen, or canned corn works.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Any onion variety can be used.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Adjust based on taste preference.
- 2 cups chicken broth Low sodium recommended.
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk Choose based on dietary needs.
- 3 tbsp butter Unsalted butter is preferred.
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour) Use any suitable thickening flour.
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to personal taste.
- 1 pie crust or biscuit dough (regular or gluten-free) Can use store-bought or homemade.
Instructions
Preparation
- Chop the onion, garlic, and other vegetables as desired.
- Place the chicken at the bottom of the crock pot.
- Layer chopped carrots, peas, and corn on top of the chicken.
Making the Sauce
- Melt the butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour until it turns golden to create a roux.
- Gradually add the chicken broth and cream, whisking until smooth.
Cooking the Dish
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the crock pot.
- Season with thyme, sage, salt, and pepper, then stir gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.
- 30 minutes before serving, place the pie crust or biscuit dough over the mixture and cover again to steam.
Serving
- Serve hot with a side salad or crusty bread.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
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