Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

This classic chicken pot pie recipe features tender chunks of chicken and vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes in a rich, creamy sauce. The savory mixture is baked inside a flaky, golden-brown pie crust, creating the ultimate comfort food meal perfect for families and beginner cooks.

A warm, comforting meal brings everyone to the table, especially when life gets busy. For many home cooks, the classic chicken pot pie is the ultimate cozy dish. Still, the thought of making it from scratch can feel daunting. If you want to cook healthy, tasty meals the whole family will love without complex steps, you’re in the right place. We believe delicious, flavorful meals made easy should be a cornerstone of every home kitchen.

At Recipesmondial, we want to make family-friendly cooking an enjoyable, stress-free experience. That’s why we’re sharing our incredibly simple chicken pot pie recipe, designed to guide you step-by-step. You’ll learn how to create a golden, flaky-crusted pot pie with a rich, savory filling that tastes like it took hours but comes together easily. This simple dinner recipe is about to become a reliable favorite.

Our beginner-friendly recipe provides practical guidance to ensure great results, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting. We’ll show you how to achieve the perfect chicken pot pie every time, complete with helpful tips, substitutions, and variations to make it your own. Get ready to cook with confidence and serve a meal that is sure to gather rave reviews.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

A golden-brown chicken pot pie with a slice removed, revealing the creamy chicken and vegetable filling inside, on a wooden table. — A perfectly baked chicken pot pie, golden-brown and flaky crust with a lovely lattice top, steam gently rising from a slice that’s been cut out, revealing the creamy, rich filling with chunks of chicken and vibrant mixed vegetables. The pie is served on a rustic wooden surface, with a cozy, warm kitchen in the softly blurred background. Professional food photography, photorealistic, high-quality food magazine photo style.

There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a warm, savory homemade chicken pot pie. While it’s a true classic for any occasion, this isn’t just any pot pie recipe. We’ve designed it specifically for home cooks like you.

At Recipesmondial, we believe cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. That’s why our easy chicken pot pie recipe delivers reliable results and incredible flavor without the fuss. Instead of being overwhelmed by complex recipes, you’ll find simple steps and practical guidance.

Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making this homemade chicken pot pie:

Effortless Comfort Food: This pot pie recipe brings cozy warmth to your table using everyday ingredients you likely already have. It’s the perfect choice for a satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Beginner-Friendly Approach: We break down every step clearly, providing step-by-step cooking guidance from start to finish. This approachable home cooking experience helps even new cooks feel confident in the kitchen.
Incredible Flavor, Made Easy: Get ready to enjoy a rich, creamy filling and a perfectly flaky crust. Our straightforward method ensures maximum taste with minimal fuss, making this a truly flavorful meal made easy.
Perfect for Busy Families: As a family-friendly meal, this chicken pot pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, our meal prep tips show you how to prepare it ahead of time.
Customizable to Your Liking: Feel free to adapt this recipe by swapping vegetables or using leftover chicken. We also include variations, like a chicken pot pie casserole, to suit your taste and what you have on hand.
Say Goodbye to Mealtime Stress: Stop struggling to plan family-friendly meals. With clear directions and delicious results, this recipe lets you enjoy cooking without stress.

Get ready to create a memorable dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. This chicken pie recipe proves how simple ingredients can transform into a spectacular meal. Recipesmondial is here to guide you toward culinary success!

What Ingredients Do You Need for This Pot Pie Recipe?

An overhead view of all the fresh ingredients for chicken pot pie, including raw chicken, mixed vegetables, and pie crusts, neatly arranged on a counter. — An overhead flat lay, professional food photography shot of all fresh, raw ingredients for an easy chicken pot pie neatly arranged on a clean, light-colored kitchen counter or rustic wooden board. Ingredients include raw chicken breast, frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and two store-bought pie crusts (one in its package, one unrolled). The ingredients are vibrant, fresh, and perfectly lit. Photorealistic, high-quality food magazine photo.

For the Creamy Chicken Filling

A rich and creamy filling is the heart of a delicious homemade chicken pot pie. Using everyday ingredients, it comes together quickly to create a comforting, flavorful meal your family will adore. This recipe makes approachable home cooking both simple and enjoyable.

Here’s what you’ll need for this savory core:

Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced. Leftover roast chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves so much time!
Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons). This forms the base for our flavorful sauce.
Yellow Onion: 1/2 medium, chopped. It adds a sweet and savory depth.
Carrots: 1 cup, peeled and diced. They bring natural sweetness and color.
Celery: 1 cup, diced. This adds a subtle crunch and classic flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup. It helps to thicken the creamy sauce beautifully.
Chicken Broth: 1 1/2 cups. Choose low-sodium to control the saltiness.
Milk: 1/2 cup (whole milk or 2%). This makes the filling wonderfully creamy.
Frozen Peas: 1 cup. No need to thaw them; they add a pop of green and sweetness.
Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon. It provides that classic, aromatic pot pie taste.
Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Start with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, then adjust as needed.

Substitution Tip: Feel free to customize the filling! You can easily swap in other vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or corn. This flexibility makes it a truly family-friendly meal. For an even richer sauce, replace half the milk with heavy cream. This beginner-friendly recipe encourages creativity in your kitchen!

For the Flaky Pie Crust (Store-Bought or Homemade)

The golden, flaky crust is what makes a chicken pot pie irresistible. To create an easy chicken pot pie, we recommend a store-bought crust. It’s a great shortcut for getting this simple dinner recipe on the table fast. However, if you love to bake, a homemade crust is a wonderful and rewarding option.

Here are your crust choices:

Refrigerated Pie Crusts: 2 (one 14.1-ounce package). This is our top pick for a quick and stress-free pie. They are readily available in most grocery stores—simply unroll and use!

For the Homemade Crust (Optional, but rewarding!):

All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/2 cups.
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), very cold and cut into small cubes. Cold butter is the key to a flaky crust!
Ice Water: 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup. Add it slowly until the dough just comes together.
Salt: 1 teaspoon. This enhances the flavor of the crust.

Pro Tip for Beginners: Don’t hesitate to use a store-bought crust! It’s a fantastic shortcut for a flavorful meal made easy without the extra work. Our step-by-step cooking guidance is designed to provide simple paths to delicious results. You can always tackle the homemade version when you’re feeling more adventurous. You’ll build kitchen confidence with every recipe you try!

How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Step-by-Step

A home cook's hands gently placing and crimping a top pie crust onto a dish filled with chicken pot pie mixture. — A close-up, photorealistic professional food photography shot of a home cook’s hands, with clean, unadorned nails, gently placing a golden-brown, pre-made pie crust over a glass pie dish filled with a creamy chicken and mixed vegetable mixture. The hands are carefully crimping the edges to seal the pie. The background is a soft, warm, and inviting kitchen setting, slightly blurred to keep focus on the hands and the pie assembly. High-quality food magazine photo.

Step 1: Prepare and Sauté the Vegetables

Let’s begin your delicious easy chicken pot pie recipe by preparing the vegetables. Proper prep work makes the cooking process much smoother and is a great habit for meal prep.

Dice the aromatics. Finely dice one medium onion and two cloves of garlic. Smaller pieces will ensure they cook evenly.
Melt the butter. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
Sauté the onion. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it has softened.
Add remaining vegetables. Add one cup of sliced carrots and one cup of frozen peas to the pot. You can also add corn for extra sweetness.
Stir in the garlic. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until you can smell its aroma.
Set the vegetables aside. Remove the cooked vegetables from the pot and transfer them to a bowl. This step prevents them from overcooking while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Create the Creamy Sauce

Now it’s time to build the heart of your homemade chicken pot pie: the creamy, flavorful filling. This rich sauce is what makes a pot pie so comforting.

Cook the chicken. If using raw chicken, dice two boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cook them in the same pot with a tablespoon of olive oil until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. If you are using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, you will add two cups of shredded meat later.
Make the roux. In the same pot, melt another two tablespoons of butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a thickening paste.
Create the sauce. Gradually pour in 1 3/4 cups of chicken broth while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Then, whisk in 1 cup of whole milk. Continue until the sauce begins to thicken and can coat the back of a spoon.
Season the sauce. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Combine all ingredients. Return the cooked vegetables to the pot. Add the cooked chicken (either the freshly cooked pieces or the shredded rotisserie chicken) and stir everything together. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Pot Pie

The assembly step is where your chicken pot pie comes to life. This process is simple, satisfying, and a great example of beginner-friendly recipes.

Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the pie plate. Lightly grease a standard 9-inch pie plate.
Line the pie plate. Gently unroll one refrigerated pie crust and press it into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared plate. Trim any excess dough from the edge.
Add the filling. Pour the warm chicken and vegetable filling into the bottom crust and spread it out evenly.
Cover with the top crust. Place the second pie crust over the filling. Trim the edges, leaving a 1/2-inch overhang.
Seal the edges. Fold the top crust’s overhang under the bottom crust’s edge and crimp them together with your fingers or a fork to create a seal.
Vent the crust. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This helps prevent a soggy pie.
Add an optional egg wash. For a rich, golden-brown finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash (one egg beaten with a tablespoon of water).

Step 4: Bake to Golden Brown Perfection

The final step is baking. This is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a classic, flavorful meal made easy. Prepare for a truly comforting chicken pot pie experience!

Bake the pie. Place the assembled pot pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Prevent over-browning. If you notice the edges of the crust browning too quickly, you can cover them with a strip of aluminum foil.
Check for doneness. For food safety, the internal temperature of the filling should reach 165°F (74°C) ^[1].
Rest the pie before serving. Once baked, remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 10-15 minutes. This crucial step allows the creamy filling to set, so it doesn’t run out when you slice it.
Serve and enjoy! Slice the warm, homemade chicken pot pie and serve immediately. It’s a satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week.

What Are Some Tips and Variations for the Best Chicken Pie?

Time-Saving Tip: Using Rotisserie Chicken

When life gets busy, smart shortcuts in the kitchen are a lifesaver.

Using a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic way to make this easy chicken pot pie even quicker. This simple swap saves you valuable time, especially when you’re preparing dinner on a tight schedule.

Here’s how to do it:

Shred the Chicken: Once the rotisserie chicken has cooled, remove the skin and bones. Shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces. You’ll need about 2-3 cups for this recipe.
Skip a Step: Add the cooked chicken directly to your sautéed vegetables and creamy sauce. This allows you to skip the step of cooking raw chicken from scratch.
Flavor Boost: Rotisserie chicken often comes pre-seasoned, which adds an extra layer of savory flavor to your homemade chicken pot pie.

This simple trick makes preparing family-friendly, beginner-friendly meals a breeze.

Crust Alternatives: Can I use biscuits or puff pastry?

Absolutely! The beauty of a pot pie recipe is its versatility, and you can easily switch up the crust.

If you’re looking for a different texture or an even simpler approach, these alternatives are perfect for stress-free cooking.

Many home cooks enjoy these popular variations:

Flaky Puff Pastry: For an elegant, super-flaky top, use a sheet of store-bought puff pastry. Thaw it according to package directions, lay it over your filling, crimp the edges, and bake until golden brown for a beautiful, light crust.
Comforting Biscuits: Biscuit dough makes a wonderful, soft topping. You can use canned biscuit dough or your favorite homemade recipe. Simply arrange the biscuits over the filling for a more rustic, casserole-style pot pie.
No Bottom Crust: For a lighter option, you can skip the bottom crust entirely. This is a great approach when making a chicken pot pie in a bowl or in a “pot pie soup” style.

These crust alternatives open up new possibilities for creating easy and flavorful meals.

Making a Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Transforming your chicken pot pie into a casserole is an excellent idea that’s often even easier to assemble.

This variation is perfect for feeding a crowd because it simplifies serving, making it a fantastic solution for busy family dinners.

Follow these simple adjustments:

Choose Your Dish: Prepare your creamy chicken filling as directed, then pour it into a large baking dish (like a 9×13 inch casserole dish) instead of a pie plate.
Crust on Top Only: A casserole typically has a top crust only. You can use a single pie crust, puff pastry, or biscuits. If using pie crust, you might need two sheets to cover a larger casserole dish.
Crumb Topping (Optional): For a lighter, crunchier topping, consider a savory crumb. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle the mixture over the filling before baking.
Bake and Serve: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the top is golden brown. Adjust the baking time based on your dish size and topping.

This adaptation creates an approachable home cooking experience, and you’ll love how simple and delicious it is!

Meal Prep: Making the Filling Ahead of Time

Meal prep is a game-changer for stress-free cooking, and preparing your chicken pot pie filling in advance is a smart move.

This approach saves significant time, helping you get delicious, family-friendly meals on the table fast, even on the most hectic days.

Here’s how to do it efficiently:

Cook the Filling: Follow the recipe steps to prepare the creamy chicken filling, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thickened.
Cool Completely: It is crucial to let the filling cool down completely before storing it. Storing it while hot can create condensation and affect freshness.
Store Properly: Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months ^[2].
Assemble and Bake Later: When you’re ready to bake, thaw the filling if frozen and warm it gently on the stovetop. Pour it into your pie crust, add the top crust, and bake as usual.

This meal prep tip ensures you can enjoy flavorful, home-cooked meals with less last-minute effort.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Pot Pie

Making a delicious homemade chicken pot pie is incredibly satisfying. By learning how to properly store and reheat your leftovers, you can enjoy that comforting flavor for days! Here at Recipesmondial, we want to help you make the most of every meal.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Pot Pie

To keep your leftover pot pie fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage steps:

Cool Completely: Let your chicken pot pie cool to room temperature before storing. For safety, do not leave it out for more than two hours ^[3].
Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled leftovers into an airtight container. This keeps the pie from drying out and locks in freshness.
Refrigerate Promptly: Place the sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. This is perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freeze for Longer Storage: For longer-term storage, freezing is an excellent option.
- To Freeze a Whole Pie: Wrap the entire pot pie tightly, first in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- To Freeze Individual Portions: For convenient meal prep, divide the pie into single servings before freezing. Be sure to label each container with the date.
- Frozen pot pie is best if used within 2-3 months. Remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before you plan to reheat it.

How to Reheat Leftover Chicken Pot Pie

Reheating your pot pie the right way is key to restoring its delicious flavor and flaky crust. Here are the best methods:

In the Oven (Recommended for Best Results): Using the oven is the best way to revive the pot pie’s crispy, flaky crust.
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). A lower temperature gently reheats the filling without burning the crust.
2. Place the pot pie on a baking sheet. If the crust is already golden brown, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
3. Bake a single slice for 20-30 minutes or a whole pie for 45-60 minutes.
4. The pie is ready when the filling is bubbly. For food safety, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ^[4].
5. To make the crust extra crispy, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
In the Microwave (Quickest Option): While the oven delivers the best texture, the microwave is a great alternative when you’re short on time.
1. Place a slice of pot pie on a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover the slice loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
4. If it’s not hot enough, continue heating in 30-second intervals.
5. Use caution when removing, as the filling can become extremely hot.
Pro Tip: To get a crispier crust after microwaving, place the slice in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes. It’s the perfect trick for a quick and satisfying lunch!

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a good old-fashioned chicken pot pie recipe?

A good old-fashioned chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food. It combines simple, delicious elements to create a heartwarming meal for the whole family.

Here’s what goes into a great homemade chicken pot pie:

A Rich, Creamy Filling: The heart of the pie is its luscious, savory sauce, which should coat every ingredient beautifully.
Tender Chicken: Cooked chicken, whether shredded or diced, provides the main protein. For the best result, it should be juicy and flavorful.
Classic Vegetables: A colorful mix of peas, carrots, and corn adds texture and nutrition, making the dish vibrant. Potatoes or green beans are also great additions.
A Flaky Crust: A golden, buttery crust is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a simple store-bought option or homemade, the crust seals in all the delicious flavors.

Together, these elements create a satisfying, flavorful meal that feels just like home—an easy recipe perfect for any weeknight.

Can I make this an easy chicken pot pie recipe with cream of chicken soup?

Yes, absolutely! Using canned cream of chicken soup is a great shortcut for an even easier chicken pot pie. This simple swap streamlines the filling process, making dinner quick and stress-free.

Here’s how to make it work for a simple dinner recipe:

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix your cooked chicken and vegetables with a can of cream of chicken soup.
Adjust Consistency: If the filling seems too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to reach your desired creamy texture.
Boost Flavor: To enhance the taste, stir in a pinch of dried thyme, a dash of garlic powder, or some freshly ground black pepper. These simple additions will elevate the flavor.

This method makes a family-friendly meal accessible for busy cooks. It’s a fantastic, beginner-friendly recipe that delivers a delicious outcome with minimal effort.

Can I make just the chicken pot pie filling?

Yes, you certainly can! Making the chicken pot pie filling ahead of time is a smart meal prep strategy. It saves valuable time on busy weeknights and makes getting dinner on the table much less of a rush.

Here are a few ways to prepare and use your chicken pot pie filling:

Make Ahead for Pot Pie: Prepare the filling as directed, then let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days ^[5]. When you’re ready to eat, just assemble the pot pie and bake.
Versatile Serving Ideas: The filling is delicious on its own and can be enjoyed in several ways. Serve it over warm biscuits for a deconstructed pot pie, or thin it with a little extra broth to create a comforting chicken pot pie soup.
Freezing for Later: For longer storage, freeze the cooled filling in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before using.

This flexibility makes meal planning much simpler, helping you enjoy a stress-free cooking experience.

What is the difference between a chicken pie and a chicken pot pie?

While the terms “chicken pie” and “chicken pot pie” are often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference that usually comes down to the crust and presentation.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Chicken Pot Pie: This version features a creamy filling baked in a deep dish—or “pot.” It typically has only a top crust, which can be made from pastry, biscuits, or puff pastry. The name highlights the deep dish vessel it’s baked in, signifying a hearty, all-in-one meal.
Chicken Pie: This term often refers to a savory pie with both a top and bottom crust, similar in structure to a traditional fruit pie. In some regions, a chicken pie might also be a smaller, hand-held pastry.

Ultimately, both are comforting and delicious options for a family-friendly meal. At Recipesmondial, we focus on approachable home cooking, so we embrace both delicious styles!