Craving a warm, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this Chicken Pot Pie Pillsbury recipe! This classic dish gets a modern makeover, utilizing the convenience of pre-made pie crusts to save you time without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade comfort food, elevated with minimal effort!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.1 ounce) package refrigerated Pillsbury pie crusts
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base of your pot pie filling.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes more. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the chicken broth, peas, corn, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into a 9-inch pie plate. Top with the Pillsbury pie crust, crimping the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Pot Pie:
- For extra flavor: Use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Overcooked vegetables will be mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- For a richer flavor: Add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the pot pie up to a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Mushrooms, potatoes, or green beans would be delicious additions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey, beef, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a healthy dinner choice. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a single serving will likely contain approximately:
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
Enjoy this easy and delicious Chicken Pot Pie Pillsbury recipe! It's a perfect example of how quick dinner ideas can also be healthy meals and delicious dishes, all thanks to a little smart cooking and the convenience of pre-made ingredients. This recipe is a guaranteed addition to your best recipes collection.