Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent? Look no further than this cast iron pan chicken pot pie! This recipe elevates the classic pot pie to new heights, offering a crispy, golden crust and a tender, creamy chicken filling all cooked to perfection in a rustic cast iron skillet. It's a delicious dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering. This easy recipe is surprisingly quick to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a healthy and delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup ice water
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 10-inch cast iron skillet. This step ensures easy removal of your delicious pot pie once cooked.
Make the Chicken Filling: In the prepped cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the filling.
Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken mixture and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened. This is a crucial step in achieving a creamy texture.
Add Cream and Vegetables: Stir in the heavy cream and frozen peas and carrots. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are heated through.
Make the Crust: While the filling simmers, prepare the crust. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
Assemble and Bake: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to the cast iron skillet, pressing it gently into the sides and trimming any excess. Crimp the edges to create a rustic look.
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Cast Iron Chicken Pot Pie:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your pot pie will be significantly enhanced by using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until just cooked through.
- Make the crust ahead of time: You can make the pie crust ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Use a good quality cast iron skillet: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet will ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or corn to the filling.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Make it a vegetarian pot pie: Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This cast iron pan chicken pot pie recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the ease of this homemade cooking experience! It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. From quick dinner ideas to delicious dishes, this recipe ticks all the boxes.