Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh-baked mini chicken pot pies wafting through your home. These delightful little treasures are not only a feast for the senses but also a perfect comforting meal, especially on colder days. Bursting with tender shredded chicken, vibrant peas, and carrots, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and flaky crust, they are sure to warm your heart and satisfy your loved ones. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, these mini pot pies are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 pre-made pie crusts
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 mini pot pies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and get ready for some delicious baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, frozen peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and the mixture is a satisfying creamy medley.
- Roll out one of the pie crusts on a clean surface. Using a round cutter or a glass, cut out circles. You’ll need two circles for each mini pie, so prepare accordingly!
- Place half of the circles into greased muffin tins, gently pressing them down to form the base of your mini pot pies. Watch how they fit perfectly into each muffin cup.
- Spoon the chicken mixture generously into each crust, allowing it to mound just a bit for that enticing, inviting look.
- Top each filled crust with another circle of pie crust. Press the edges firmly to seal them together, ensuring none of that creamy goodness escapes during baking. Then, cut small slits in the top for steam to escape; this will prevent any bubbling over!
- Brush the tops of the mini pot pies with the beaten egg using a pastry brush to give them a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crusts are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen is filled with tempting scents.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. This will help the filling set and ensure you don’t get burned by that delicious hot filling!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling with other vegetables like corn or green beans to suit your taste.
- If you have leftover turkey, it’s a fantastic substitute for the chicken in this recipe!
- These mini pot pies can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.
- For a little extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights basic techniques like rolling and cutting dough, mixing ingredients, and baking. It’s a great opportunity to introduce younger cooks to the world of baking while still being an enjoyable process for seasoned chefs. Pay attention to the textures as you mix the filling, and enjoy the satisfaction of sealing those little pies by hand!
FAQ
Can I freeze the mini chicken pot pies?
Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just assemble the pies, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein or additional vegetables to make a heartwarming vegetarian version.
What can I serve with mini chicken pot pies?
These mini delights pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables on the side, making for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
There you have it — a simple yet satisfying recipe for mini chicken pot pies that you can whip up any time you’re craving comfort food. With their irresistible flaky crusts and hearty fillings, these little pies are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy evening filled with warmth and laughter. Happy cooking!