Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or even a cozy gathering with friends? Look no further! This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the ease of a casserole. Packed with hearty chicken, creamy vegetables, and topped with a golden, flaky crust, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and step-by-step instructions!

this Recipe

What is Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a simplified version of the classic chicken pot pie, where all the delicious fillings are layered into a baking dish and covered with a crust. This makes it easier to prepare and quicker to bake, while still delivering that same comforting taste. Unlike individual pot pies, a casserole is a one-pan dish that serves several people at once, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.

Ingredients List for Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

To make this delicious Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots (you can also use fresh if preferred)
• 1 cup of diced potatoes, pre-cooked
• 1 cup of diced onions
• ½ cup of celery, diced
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of milk (whole milk or heavy cream for a richer texture)
• ¼ cup of all-purpose flour
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 sheet of refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the top of the crust)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this Chicken Pot Pie Casserole recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Chicken Substitutes: If you don’t have chicken on hand, you can substitute turkey or even leftover roast beef. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, squash, or cauliflower.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. Just make sure to use a dairy-free butter alternative as well.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour in the sauce and a gluten-free pie crust. There are plenty of ready-made gluten-free pie crusts available in stores.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add or swap vegetables according to your taste. Broccoli, green beans, or corn are great additions to this casserole.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by shredding your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones before shredding. Dice your potatoes, onions, and celery, and set aside the frozen peas and carrots.
2. Make the Filling: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Once the sauce is thickened, stir in the milk, chicken, frozen peas, carrots, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme). Let the filling simmer for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and everything is well-combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the prepared filling into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Roll out your pie crust or puff pastry and place it over the top of the casserole, tucking the edges under. Brush the crust with the beaten egg to help it brown beautifully while baking.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Keep an eye on it to prevent the crust from burning. If needed, cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid over-browning.
6. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: If your chicken is already cooked, avoid cooking it too long in the sauce as it may become dry and tough. Simply stir it into the filling at the last minute.
• Soggy Crust: To prevent a soggy crust, make sure your filling isn’t too watery. If it looks too thin, continue cooking it until it thickens before adding it to the baking dish.
• Undercooking the Vegetables: While baking, the vegetables should be tender. Make sure to sauté them until they begin to soften before adding them to the casserole.
• Using Too Much Flour: While a roux helps thicken the filling, using too much flour can result in a pasty texture. Stick to the recommended amount and whisk well to avoid lumps.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve your Chicken Pot Pie Casserole can elevate the dish and make it even more appealing. Here are a few presentation and serving tips:

• Portion Size: Use a large serving spoon to scoop out generous portions. Since this is a casserole, the servings will be hearty, so aim for medium-to-large pieces.
• Garnish: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the top of the baked casserole for a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor.
• Side Dishes: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple side of steamed broccoli. These lighter sides balance out the richness of the casserole.

How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

When serving Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, consider the occasion. For a family-style dinner, place the casserole dish on the table and let everyone serve themselves. This encourages casual dining and second helpings. If you're hosting a more formal gathering, you can pre-plate the servings in the kitchen and present them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or even a dollop of sour cream for added flair.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

For an inviting presentation, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins or smaller baking dishes. This way, each guest gets their own personal pot pie, and it looks extra special. Alternatively, serve the casserole alongside freshly baked dinner rolls or warm cornbread, which are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. A pretty pie crust lattice on top of the casserole can also give it a charming homemade feel.

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep in Advance: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the chilled filling into the baking dish, top with the crust, and bake as directed.
• Make it Freezer-Friendly: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole can be frozen before baking. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
• Customize the Crust: For a creative twist, use biscuit dough instead of pie crust for the topping. This gives the casserole a delicious, fluffy top layer, reminiscent of a classic biscuit pot pie.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken will work perfectly for this recipe.

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can make the filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, just top with the crust and cook as usual.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the crust may not be as crisp.

Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.

Conclusion

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own personal touch with extra veggies or a different crust, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warm, creamy filling and flaky crust with your loved ones, and don’t forget to serve it with a side of fresh greens or crusty bread for the perfect meal.

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