There’s nothing quite like the soothing aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through the house after a long day. When I first discovered the magic of the Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie, it felt like a gift from the culinary gods! This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy filling topped with warm, flaky biscuits all magically simmering away in my slow cooker while I tackle other evening tasks.
Picture this: coming home to a warm hug of comfort food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re battling mid-week boredom with fast food or craving something hearty and delicious, this recipe is your answer. You can easily customize the toppings to suit your mood, from fluffy biscuits to delicate puff pastry, making it a versatile concoction that pleases any palate. So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into a comforting bowl of nostalgia, perfect for both busy nights and cozy weekends!
Why will you love Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
Effortless Cooking: All you need is a slow cooker for this one-pot wonder, making it perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy home-cooked goodness without lengthy prep.
Heartwarming Flavors: Tender chicken mingles with wholesome veggies in a creamy sauce, all topped with buttery biscuits for that comforting taste you crave.
Versatility at Its Best: Customize with your choice of toppings like puff pastry, and feel free to swap out proteins and veggies based on what you have on hand.
Time-Saving Delight: Perfect for busy weeknights, just set it and forget it come home to a delicious hot meal waiting for you!
Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: This dish is always a hit with family and friends; it captures the essence of Americana comfort food, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source that provides richness; you can substitute with turkey breast.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Great for sautéing vegetables and adding healthy fats; any cooking oil can also be used.
• Small Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor; shallots can be a milder alternative.
• Sliced Cremini Mushrooms (optional) – Enhance umami flavor; simply omit if you’re not a fan of mushrooms.
• Celery Stalks – Adds crunch and flavor; green bell pepper can serve as a suitable substitute.
• Garlic Powder – Imparts aromatic flavor; feel free to use fresh garlic instead.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dish; table salt may be used in smaller quantities.
• Ground Black Pepper – Provides seasoning; consider using white pepper for a milder taste.
• Dried Thyme – Adds a herby flavor; mixed Italian herbs can be a nice substitute if needed.
• Dry Rubbed Sage – Contributes an earthy richness; omit if unavailable or replace with poultry seasoning.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Keeps the filling moist and flavorful; vegetable broth is a great vegetarian option.
• Milk (any kind) – Adds creaminess to the filling; almond, oat, or coconut milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Melted Unsalted Butter – Gives richness to the sauce; margarine can be used as an alternative.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling; all-purpose flour works as an alternative thickening agent.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables (12-ounce bag) – An easy addition packed with nutrition; fresh veggies can also be substituted if finely chopped.
For the Topping
• Biscuit Topping (drop biscuits or refrigerated biscuits) – Creates a comforting, flaky topping; consider using puff pastry cut into rounds for a different twist.
This Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie recipe is your key to a comforting, satisfying meal made effortlessly!
How to Make Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
- Set Up: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Season them generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the small yellow onion, sliced cremini mushrooms (if using), celery stalks, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant, then transfer to the crock pot.
- Add Broth & Cook: Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, ensuring the chicken breasts are fully submerged. Cover the crock pot and cook on high for about 1.5 – 2.5 hours or on low for 3 – 4 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Prepare Sauce: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. In a saucepan, heat the milk and melted unsalted butter over low heat. Whisk in the cornstarch until smooth, then return this mixture to the crock pot.
- Final Cook: Place the chopped chicken back into the slow cooker. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the filling thickens. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and allow them to warm through for about 10 minutes.
- Biscuit Prep: While the pot pie filling finishes up, prepare your biscuit topping according to package instructions or your personal recipe, making sure they’re ready to be added on top.
- Serve: Spoon the savory chicken filling into bowls, add a hot biscuit on top, and experience the comforting embrace of your homemade crock pot chicken pot pie!
Optional: Try garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Variations
Feel free to mix and match or make substitutions that suit your taste buds!
- Turkey Swap: Replace chicken with tender turkey for a festive twist perfect for holiday leftovers!
- Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk instead of regular milk for a creamy yet dairy-free version that’s just as comforting.
- Veggie Boost: Add fresh or roasted veggies such as carrots or peas for extra color and nutrition, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
- Herb Infusion: Swap out dried thyme for fresh herbs like rosemary or tarragon. They add a vibrant, aromatic quality that elevates the flavors.
- Heat It Up: Spice things up by adding diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, introducing a pleasing warmth to your savory filling.
- Puff Pastry Twist: Instead of biscuits, top your pie with puff pastry cut into rounds. Bake until golden for an elegant finish that still feels like home.
- Canned Convenience: Replace fresh vegetables with canned options for a quick fix; simply drain and mix in when adding to the filling.
- Umami Boost: Pour in a splash of white wine or soy sauce with the broth, enriching the flavor profile and adding depth to every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during your busy week! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Another option is to combine the sautéed vegetables with chicken broth and seasonings the night before; this can sit in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to serve, just plug in your slow cooker, add the chicken, and cook as directed. Trust me, this makes dinner a breeze and ensures your meal is just as delicious!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
There’s something truly heartwarming about pairing a comforting dish like this one with the perfect sides.
- Simple Side Salad: A crisp and refreshing salad brightens the meal, offering a nice contrast to the creamy pot pie filling. Toss in your favorite veggies and a light vinaigrette for added zing.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the savory filling. It adds a wonderful texture and is perfect for a cozy meal.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic provide an indulgent, smooth companion to the pie. Their buttery richness harmonizes beautifully with the flavors.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans not only add vibrant color but also a fresh crunch. The slight bitterness of the beans balances the richness of the pot pie.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables enhances the comfort factor, delivering delicious caramelized flavors and additional nutrients. Consider carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini for variety.
- Crisp Apple Cider: A glass of bubbly apple cider complements the dish perfectly, offering a sweet and tart contrast that awakens the palate after every bite.
- Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For dessert, light pumpkin spice muffins are an excellent finish, delivering warmth and nostalgic flavors that echo the season’s spirit.
- Homemade Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, offering a delightful textural contrast that balances the creamy filling of the pot pie.
- Hot Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, can soothe the senses and round off the meal nicely, making for a cozy evening.
Embrace these perfect pairings to create a delightful dining experience that complements your scrumptious Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This comforting meal can be frozen for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: To enjoy this cozy dish again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Serving Freshness: For the best texture, consider zapping the biscuits separately to enjoy their flakiness alongside the reheated filling.
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip sautéing the vegetables! This step deepens the flavors and elevates your chicken pot pie to the next level.
- Whisk Wisely: Ensure you whisk the cornstarch well into the milk to avoid clumps; mixing it with a small amount of cold liquid first can help.
- Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness, preventing any chance of overcooking and dried-out meat.
- Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker filling, simply increase the cornstarch by a tablespoon when creating your slurry.
- Go Fresh or Frozen: While frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, fresh options can brighten up your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie use what you have!
- Customize Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like puff pastry for a gourmet twist or try different spices to make the dish your own.
Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing vegetables like celery and onions, opt for firm, crisp stalks free from dark spots or blemishes. For mushrooms, look for smooth caps and avoid any that are slimy or have dark spots all over.
How do I store leftover Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie?
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to help maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze this pot pie? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie! Transfer the cooled filling into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This meal can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
What if my filling turns out too thin?
No worries! If you find the filling isn’t thickening as you’d like, you can create a slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Stir this back into the filling and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes until thickened. Repeat if preferred!
Are any ingredients allergenic or unsuitable for pets?
Yes, it’s wise to note that this recipe includes ingredients like chicken and potentially dairy, which could be allergenic for some people. Moreover, avoid sharing this dish with pets, particularly those sensitive to garlic and onion, which can be harmful to dogs and cats.
Can I substitute some of the ingredients for dietary preferences?
Definitely! This recipe is quite versatile. For a dairy-free option, try using almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The fun part is making it work for you and your dietary needs!
Cozy Up with Easy Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Season them generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the small yellow onion, sliced cremini mushrooms (if using), celery stalks, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant, then transfer to the crock pot.
- Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, ensuring the chicken breasts are fully submerged. Cover the crock pot and cook on high for about 1.5 - 2.5 hours or on low for 3 - 4 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces. In a saucepan, heat the milk and melted unsalted butter over low heat. Whisk in the cornstarch until smooth, then return this mixture to the crock pot.
- Place the chopped chicken back into the slow cooker. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the filling thickens. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and allow them to warm through for about 10 minutes.
- While the pot pie filling finishes up, prepare your biscuit topping according to package instructions or your personal recipe.
- Spoon the savory chicken filling into bowls, add a hot biscuit on top, and enjoy!