Nothing says home like the aroma of chicken pot pie simmering in your slow cooker. This recipe brings all the comfort with half the fuss, making it a weeknight hero.
Why This Recipe Works
- Slow cooking melds flavors beautifully, creating a depth that stovetop versions can’t match.
- Using store-bought pie crust saves time without sacrificing taste.
- The creamy filling is packed with veggies and chicken, offering a balanced meal in one dish.
- It’s incredibly forgiving; forget about it while it cooks to perfection.
- Perfect for meal prep, as it reheats like a dream.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced chicken breast
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Slice the carrots, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the cooking process smoother. Tip: For an even quicker prep, use pre-diced chicken and frozen mixed vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the Filling
In your slow cooker, combine the chicken, carrots, peas, onion, and garlic. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed until smooth. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, bringing to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Pour over the chicken mixture in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender, and the vegetables cooked through. Tip: Resist the urge to open the lid too often, as it lets heat escape and increases cooking time.
Step 4: Add the Crust
Unroll the pie crust and place it over the filling in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for another 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Tip: For extra browning, brush the crust with an egg wash before cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the pot pie stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to thicken slightly, making it easier to scoop. Serve warm for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their slow cooker chicken pot pie, consider these advanced tips. First, for a richer flavor, substitute half the milk with heavy cream. Second, add a teaspoon of thyme or rosemary to the filling for an herby twist. Third, if you’re short on time, use a biscuit mix topping instead of pie crust for a dumpling-like effect. Lastly, for a crispy top, finish the pot pie under the broiler for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Turkey Pot Pie: Swap chicken for leftover turkey and add a splash of white wine to the filling.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken, use vegetable broth, and double up on the veggies.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and a gluten-free pie crust.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the filling before adding the crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work great in this recipe and can save you prep time. Just make sure to thaw them slightly before adding to the slow cooker to prevent excess water from diluting the filling.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. The crust may soften upon storage, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply transfer to the slow cooker, add the crust, and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Summary
This slow cooker chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a flaky crust with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, it’s a recipe that promises to satisfy.
