Homemade Chicken Pot Pie from Scratch is a classic comfort food that brings warmth to our souls and satisfies our craving for a savory, hearty meal. This delicious dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home. The best part is that it can be made from scratch, using fresh and simple ingredients that provide incredible flavors. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating this scrumptious meal, as well as share some interesting history and curiosities surrounding it.
The Ingredients
To bring this classic dish to life, you will need the following ingredients:
- For the filling:
- 2 cups cooked, diced chicken
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- For the pie crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup chilled unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
Step by Step: Making the Filling
Preparing the perfect filling is crucial to achieving that classic, comforting taste. Follow these steps to create a deliciously smooth and savory filling:
1. In a large saucepan, melt 1/3 cup butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in 1/3 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley. Cook and stir until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly.
3. Gradually whisk in 1 3/4 cups chicken broth and 2/3 cup milk. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in 2 cups cooked, diced chicken and 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
Step by Step: Preparing the Pie Crust
A perfectly flaky and tender pie crust is essential for achieving that ultimate comfort food experience. Here’s how to make the crust from scratch:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
2. Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the chilled butter cubes into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle 4-6 tablespoons of ice water over the flour mixture, and use a fork to mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal parts.
4. Roll out one portion of the dough to fit the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Gently place the dough into the pie plate and press it against the bottom and sides. Trim the excess dough, leaving a small overhang.
Assembling and Baking the Chicken Pot Pie
Now that you have prepared the filling and pie crust, it’s time to bring everything together and create the perfect chicken pot pie. Follow these simple steps to assemble and bake your homemade masterpiece:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pour the chicken filling mixture into the prepared pie crust.
3. Roll out the second portion of dough to fit the top of the pie. Place it over the filling and trim the excess dough, leaving a small overhang. Tuck the overhang under the bottom crust and crimp the edges to seal.
4. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. If necessary, cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.
HOMEMADE CHICKEN POT PIE HISTORY AND CURIOSITIES
Chicken pot pie is a dish with a long and interesting history that spans centuries and continents. The origins of this comfort food classic can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans, who created pastries with fillings known as ‘artocreas’. These early versions of the pot pie were primarily filled with meat and seafood and were enjoyed by the upper classes.
Pot pies gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly in England, where they became a staple dish among various social classes. The arrival of the dish in America is attributed to the English settlers who brought their culinary traditions with them. Over the years, the recipe evolved to include the now-classic ingredients of chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce encased in a flaky pastry crust.
Throughout the years, the chicken pot pie has taken on regional variations, with different types of crusts and fillings reflecting local tastes and traditions. However, the basic concept of a savory filling baked inside a pastry crust remains a timeless favorite – a delicious symbol of comfort and home cooking that continues to bring people together around the dinner table.
