Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Are you craving the rich and savory flavors of a classic chicken pot pie but looking for a simpler, more hands-off way to prepare it? Look no further! This Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie recipe is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food but doesn't want to spend hours in the kitchen. With a slow cooker doing most of the work, you'll get all the hearty goodness of a chicken pot pie without the fuss. Keep reading to discover how to prepare this family-friendly meal, from gathering ingredients to perfecting the presentation!

What is a Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?

Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is a slow-cooked version of the traditional chicken pot pie, made using a Crock Pot (or slow cooker). It features tender chunks of chicken, mixed vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce. Rather than baking in a crust, this version simmers in the Crock Pot, and the crust is either made separately or substituted with biscuits or pie dough for a convenient and easy twist on the classic. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening or when you're looking for a comforting meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients List for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie

To make this hearty and delicious meal, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here's what you’ll need for your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: You can also use a combination of both for more flavor.
• 1 cup carrots, chopped: Fresh or frozen, depending on what you have available.
• 1 cup peas, frozen: Adds color and a bit of sweetness to the dish.
• 1 cup celery, chopped: For extra texture and flavor.
• 1 cup potatoes, diced: Red or Yukon gold work great here.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds depth to the flavor.
• 2 cups chicken broth: This forms the base of the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Makes the sauce creamy and rich.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds a herbaceous note.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: For that classic chicken pot pie flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the dish.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
• ¼ cup butter: Adds richness and helps with the roux.
• Pre-made biscuits or pie crust: Optional, but great for topping the dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie recipe is how flexible it is. Whether you're short on ingredients or just want to make it your own, here are some simple substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken alternatives: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or even turkey if you prefer a slightly different flavor.
• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Green beans, corn, or mushrooms can be great additions. You could also use frozen mixed vegetables if you're short on time.
• Dairy-free options: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative in place of heavy cream.
• Low-carb option: Skip the potatoes and use cauliflower instead for a low-carb variation of this recipe.
• Topping variations: Instead of store-bought biscuits or pie crust, try homemade biscuit dough, puff pastry, or even crescent rolls for a different texture on top.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get cooking! Follow these steps to create a delicious, hearty Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie.

How to Cook Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into chunks and set it aside.
2. Add the Vegetables: Chop the carrots, celery, potatoes, and onions. Add them, along with the frozen peas, into the bottom of your Crock Pot. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables based on availability.
3. Season the Dish: Sprinkle the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper over the vegetables.
4. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken broth to the Crock Pot. This will be the base of your sauce and help cook the chicken and vegetables until tender.
5. Add the Chicken: Place your chicken pieces on top of the vegetable mixture. The slow cooking will allow the chicken to become incredibly tender and juicy as it simmers.
6. Cook on Low: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for about 6 to 7 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high and cook for 3 to 4 hours, but the low setting allows for better flavor development.
7. Prepare the Roux: About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and cook until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
8. Combine and Thicken: Once the sauce is ready, stir it into the Crock Pot. This will thicken the broth and turn it into a rich, creamy filling for your chicken pot pie.
9. Cook the Biscuits: If you’re topping your pot pie with biscuits, bake them according to the package instructions while the sauce thickens in the Crock Pot.
10. Serve: Once everything is done, spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture into bowls and top with freshly baked biscuits or pie crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie recipe is pretty straightforward, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:

• Overcooking the chicken: If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and stringy. To avoid this, make sure you don’t exceed the recommended cooking time.
• Not thickening the sauce enough: The sauce is one of the highlights of a good pot pie. If it’s too thin, it won’t have that satisfying, creamy texture. Make sure you follow the steps for creating the roux and adding the cream.
• Undercooked vegetables: Cutting your vegetables into uniform sizes will help them cook evenly. Large chunks might still be raw while smaller pieces become too mushy.
• Adding too much liquid: Too much broth can make the dish too soupy, so be sure to measure it carefully.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie can make all the difference when it comes to creating an inviting meal. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:

How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie

This dish is best served hot and fresh from the slow cooker. Spoon the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture into bowls or plates, then top each serving with a warm biscuit or a piece of pie crust. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation Ideas for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie

For a more visually appealing dish, try these simple presentation ideas:

• Individual servings: Spoon the filling into individual ramekins or bowls, then top with a single biscuit or piece of pie crust. This makes for a more elegant presentation.
• Golden biscuit topping: Brush the tops of your biscuits with melted butter or egg wash before baking to give them a golden, shiny finish.
• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Tips

To make sure your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: While frozen vegetables can work in a pinch, using fresh produce will give your dish more vibrant flavors and better texture.
• Don't rush the roux: Take your time when making the roux; it’s the key to a thick, creamy sauce.
• Double the recipe: This dish stores well, so feel free to double the recipe and freeze half for later. Simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy another batch.
• Add extra seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A bit more salt or pepper can make all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the filling in the Crock Pot ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the filling and bake the biscuits fresh.

Q: Can I freeze Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
A: Absolutely. The filling freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken works great in this recipe. Just add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking it.

Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low?
A: Yes, you can cook the dish on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-7 hours. Just keep in mind that the low setting develops better flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie recipe! Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a comforting meal for family and friends, this dish is sure to satisfy. With minimal prep time and the convenience of a slow cooker, you’ll have a flavorful and hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this easy and delicious twist on a classic comfort food, and don’t forget to get creative with your toppings and variations!

Print