Chicken pot pie is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe takes the traditional pot pie and gives it a nutritious twist, ensuring that you enjoy all the cozy flavors you love without the guilt. Packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a savory sauce, this healthy version will become a favorite for you and your family. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, a slice of this wholesome pie is sure to satisfy.
Why We Love This Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
What’s not to love about a hearty chicken pot pie? This particular recipe captures the essence of comfort food while also prioritizing your health. Using wholesome ingredients, you can provide nourishing sustenance for yourself and your family without sacrificing flavor. The combination of chicken, carrots, peas, and celery not only delivers a burst of color but also adds a variety of nutrients to your meal. Plus, the flaky pie crust takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. When you serve this healthy chicken pot pie, you’re not just serving food; you’re serving love on a plate.
Ingredients about Healthy Chicken Pot Pie
For this healthy chicken pot pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 prepared pie crust
These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious dish that’s full of comforting flavors.
How to Make Healthy Chicken Pot Pie Directions
Creating your healthy chicken pot pie is straightforward and fun. Start by prepping your kitchen and gathering all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that the pie cooks evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to soften but not lose their crunch.
- Once the veggies are softened, stir in the flour, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook this mixture for an additional minute to toast the flour slightly, which helps to thicken your sauce later.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, steadily mixing to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that creamy filling we all love in a pot pie.
- After the mixture has thickened, gently fold in the shredded chicken and peas. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Next, pour the filling into your prepared pie crust, creating an even layer across the surface. If you like, you can fold over the edges of the pie to make it look fancy.
- For an extra touch, you can optionally cover the filling with another pie crust. If you choose this option, remember to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake your pot pie in the preheated oven for about 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and remove it when the crust turns a beautiful golden brown color. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be irresistible!
- Finally, allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. This resting time helps the filling set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Now you have a warm, fragrant chicken pot pie ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Healthy Chicken Pot Pie
Serving your healthy chicken pot pie has never been easier. You can present it simply by slicing it into wedges and plating each piece. This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or steamed veggies on the side. A light vinaigrette on the salad will add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pot pie.
You can also consider creative serving options. For example, you could top individual servings with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and color. If you want to elevate the presentation, serve the pie with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of lemon zest. This brings a nice touch of brightness to the hearty dish. Additionally, enjoy this meal with your favorite beverage, whether it be water, herbal tea, or a light sparkling drink.
Expert Tips: Healthy Chicken Pot Pie
To achieve the best results with your healthy chicken pot pie, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation time, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your chicken from scratch. This saves you time while still providing tender, flavorful chicken. Just shred it and you’re good to go!
- Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables you use. If you have other favorites, such as corn or bell peppers, add them in! The key is to keep the veggie count up for added nutrition.
- Make it Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap out the flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps the recipe accessible for those with dietary restrictions and still maintains great flavor.
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your pot pie as it bakes. You want the crust to be perfectly golden brown, but you don’t want to overbake it and risk drying it out.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the pie to cool slightly before slicing helps the filling set, making it easier to serve. It also enhances the overall flavor, giving the ingredients time to meld beautifully.
Following these tips will ensure that your pot pie turns out perfectly every time, making it a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.
How to Store Healthy Chicken Pot Pie
If you happen to have leftover chicken pot pie, storing it properly will help maintain its taste and texture. Here’s how:
- Let it Cool: Before storing, make sure your pot pie has cooled down to room temperature. This prevents condensation from making the crust soggy.
- Cover it Up: Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the pie. Alternatively, you can store individual slices in airtight containers.
- Refrigerate: The covered pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you know you won’t eat it within that time frame, consider freezing it instead.
- Freezing: If you choose to freeze your pot pie, wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer. It will last for about 2 to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply transfer it to the oven and increase the baking time, ensuring the center is heated through.
These easy storage methods will help you extend the life of your delicious chicken pot pie, so you can enjoy it for days to come.
Variation of Healthy Chicken Pot Pie
Embrace creativity in your kitchen by trying some variations of the healthy chicken pot pie! Here are a few ideas:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for a mix of hearty vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and a protein source like chickpeas for a healthy vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy flavor explosion. This adds a whole new dimension and excitement to your meal.
- Different Proteins: Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or even cooked quinoa for a different take on the recipe. Both options are delicious and provide a unique taste.
- Herb Variations: Enhance flavors by adding different herbs. Fresh rosemary or basil can transform the dish and add depth. Play around with herbs to discover your favorite combo.
- Topping Twist: Try using a biscuit topping instead of a traditional pie crust. Drop biscuit dough over the filling and bake until golden brown for a delightful change.
These variations allow you to customize the chicken pot pie to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Each version brings its own flair while keeping with the comforting essence of the classic dish.
FAQ
What is a healthy chicken pot pie?
A healthy chicken pot pie is a nutritious twist on the classic comfort food, featuring lean shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce in a flaky pie crust, all made with wholesome ingredients.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes! Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver and can easily be used in your healthy chicken pot pie without compromising taste.
How long does it take to bake a chicken pot pie?
Baking a chicken pot pie typically takes about 30 to 35 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
Can I make chicken pot pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust ahead of time. Assemble and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust the baking time if baking from cold.
What can I serve with chicken pot pie?
Healthy chicken pot pie pairs nicely with a side salad or steamed veggies. A light vinaigrette on the salad will balance the richness of the pie beautifully.
Enjoy making and indulging in your healthy chicken pot pie! It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to bring smiles to your table.
Healthy Chicken Pot Pie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas Fresh or frozen peas can be used.
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth Low sodium broth is recommended.
- 1 cup milk Can use low-fat or dairy alternatives.
- 1/4 cup flour For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the flour, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and peas, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and create an even layer.
- Optional: Cover the filling with another pie crust, cutting slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing.
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