Skillet Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

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When you need a cozy meal that brings comfort and joy, Skillet Chicken Pot Pie delivers every time. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, hosting a family gathering, or simply want to elevate a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a surefire hit. Its golden, flaky crust and creamy, savory filling packed with tender chicken and vegetables will make everyone at the table ask for seconds.

Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie offers the best of both worlds: the hominess of a traditional pot pie and the ease of a one-pan meal. Its simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while the rich flavors are perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving or a family Sunday dinner. Plus, it’s a dish you can make in advance, leaving you more time to enjoy the event.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crust:

  • 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the puff pastry becomes beautifully golden and crisp when baked.

2. Prepare the Skillet

  • Heat the butter and olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.

3. Make the Filling

  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
  • Stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, frozen peas, and chicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes.

4. Top with Puff Pastry

  • Unroll the thawed puff pastry and lay it over the skillet, trimming any excess that hangs over the edge. Press the edges down slightly, and brush the top with beaten egg.

5. Bake

  • Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve

  • Once baked, let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. The filling will thicken slightly as it cools.

Tips for Customizing Your Skillet Chicken Pot Pie

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a hearty vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Lighter Version: Substitute the heavy cream with milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk to cut back on fat content.
  • Add More Veggies: You can easily toss in extra vegetables like potatoes, corn, or green beans for added texture and flavor.
  • Make It Ahead: Prepare the filling up to a day in advance, then top with puff pastry just before baking. This makes it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free puff pastry and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Turkey Pot Pie: Swap out chicken for leftover turkey, making this the ideal post-Thanksgiving dish.
  2. Cheddar Crust: Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese between the filling and the puff pastry for an extra cheesy twist.
  3. Bisquick Topping: Don’t have puff pastry? Use a Bisquick mix to create a biscuit-style topping for a comforting alternative.
  4. No-Skillet Version: If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the filling to a casserole dish before topping with pastry.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Skillet Chicken Pot Pie with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced. For a truly comforting experience, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or warm dinner rolls.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Skillet Chicken Pot Pie?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Make the filling and assemble the pie up to the step of adding the puff pastry. Freeze it, then thaw and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use a store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and adds even more flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of crust?

Yes, you can use pie crust, biscuits, or even a homemade crust if you prefer. Puff pastry adds a flaky texture, but other crusts work just as well.

Why You’ll Love Making This Recipe

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie is a breeze to prepare, but it looks and tastes like something you’d spend hours on. The creamy filling, loaded with vegetables and tender chicken, contrasts beautifully with the flaky puff pastry crust. This recipe offers flexibility, so you can tailor it to your needs—whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for a busy week.