Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Easy and Delicious Mini Chicken Pot Pies Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for any meal, these Mini Chicken Pot Pies are the answer. They’re quick, easy to make, and a hit with the whole family. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and a few helpful tips to make these delicious mini pies that are perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even as a quick snack.

Why You’ll Love Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Mini Chicken Pot Pies are the perfect combination of a creamy, hearty filling encased in a flaky, buttery crust. They offer all the comforting flavors of a traditional chicken pot pie in a convenient, individual serving. This makes them great for portion control, and they can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives.

Ingredients for Mini Chicken Pot Pies

To make 6 servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1/2 cup diced potatoes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped onions
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cans of refrigerated biscuit dough or homemade pie dough
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

  2. Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the diced potatoes (if using) and cook until slightly tender.

  3. Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute until it forms a paste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

  4. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Stir in the shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes until it’s heated through and thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

  5. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the biscuit dough or pie dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out circles of dough slightly larger than the muffin tin cups. Press each circle into the muffin cups, leaving enough dough over the edges.

  6. Fill the Pies: Spoon the chicken mixture into each dough-lined muffin cup. Be generous with the filling but avoid overstuffing.

  7. Top with Dough: Cut smaller circles of dough to cover the top of each pie. Pinch the edges to seal and create a decorative edge. Use a fork to crimp the edges if desired. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to achieve a golden-brown finish.

  8. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

  9. Cool and Serve: Allow the mini pies to cool for about 5 minutes before removing them from the tin. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Mini Chicken Pot Pies

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s tender, flavorful, and saves you time.

  • Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap chicken for turkey. You can also make a vegetarian version by using mushrooms and adding more vegetables like broccoli or spinach.

  • Make Ahead: These mini pies can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

  • Freezer-Friendly: These mini chicken pot pies are also freezer-friendly. Prepare them as directed, let them cool, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

Nutritional Benefits

These Mini Chicken Pot Pies are not only delicious but also pack a good amount of protein from the chicken, fiber from the vegetables, and a dose of essential vitamins. By opting for a lighter crust or a gluten-free option, you can cater to various dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of pie dough?

Yes, puff pastry can be a great alternative if you prefer a flakier, lighter crust. Just keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to keep them crispy.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour to thicken the filling and a gluten-free pie crust or dough for the base.

Conclusion

These Mini Chicken Pot Pies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, a potluck dish, or a simple comfort food dinner, these little pies offer big flavors. They’re easy to make, customizable, and freezer-friendly, making them a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Give them a try today, and let us know how they turn out!

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