Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Pot Pie

  • Prep time: 15
  • Cook time: 45
  • Yield: 8
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Ingredients
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups stock
  • 1 cup peas, frozen
  • 1 cup green beans, frozen
  • 1 cup corn, frozen
  • 1/2 pound chicken breast
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar
  • pie dough
Nutrition Facts
Serves 8

Description

Chicken pot pie is considered a great comfort food for several reasons, as it embodies qualities that evoke a sense of warmth, nostalgia, and satisfaction. Here are some reasons why chicken pot pie is often cherished as a comfort food:

  1. Rich and Creamy Filling: The filling of a chicken pot pie is typically made with a combination of cooked chicken, vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and potatoes), and a creamy, savory sauce made with chicken broth and sometimes cream. The richness and creaminess create a comforting and satisfying texture.

  2. Flaky Pastry Crust: The pie crust, whether it’s a traditional flaky pastry or a biscuit-like topping, adds a buttery and crisp element to the dish. The contrast between the creamy filling and the golden, flaky crust contributes to the overall comfort factor.

  3. One-Pot Convenience: Chicken pot pie is often baked in a single dish, making it a convenient one-pot meal. The simplicity of preparation and serving reduces the stress associated with elaborate cooking and cleanup.

  4. Nostalgia and Tradition: Many people associate chicken pot pie with fond memories of home-cooked meals or family gatherings. The dish often has a nostalgic quality, reminding individuals of the comforting and familiar flavors from their past.

  5. Warmth and Heartiness: Chicken pot pie is a warm and hearty dish, making it particularly appealing during colder seasons. The combination of a hot, comforting filling and a satisfying crust provides a sense of nourishment and well-being.

  6. Versatility and Adaptability: Chicken pot pie is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit individual tastes. From variations in the choice of vegetables to the type of crust used, it allows for personalization while maintaining its comforting essence.

  7. Soothing Aromas: The baking process releases enticing aromas that fill the kitchen with the scent of savory chicken, vegetables, and buttery pastry. The comforting smell contributes to the overall appeal of the dish.

  8. Filling and Satisfying: The combination of protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the crust, and the various nutrients in the vegetables makes chicken pot pie a well-balanced and filling meal. It leaves individuals feeling satisfied and content.

  9. Ease of Sharing: Chicken pot pie is often baked in a large dish, making it suitable for sharing with family and friends. The act of sharing a comforting meal enhances its appeal as a communal and enjoyable experience.

  10. Adaptable to Leftovers: Chicken pot pie leftovers can be easily reheated, maintaining their deliciousness even the next day. The convenience of enjoying a comforting meal without the need for extensive cooking adds to its appeal.

In summary, the combination of a creamy filling, flaky crust, convenience, nostalgia, and the overall sense of warmth and satisfaction contributes to why chicken pot pie is widely regarded as a great comfort food. It provides not only nourishment for the body but also a sense of well-being for the soul.

Instructions

  • 1. Preheat oven to 375F.
  • 2. In a large pan, heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4 minutes on first side and 2 minutes on second side. Reserve to plate.
  • 3. Add another tbsp of oil to pan and add onions, celery, and carrots. Cook until vegetables have softened, about 7 minutes.
  • 4. Add garlic and thyme, stir and cook just until aromatic, another minute.
  • 5. Add butter and sprinkle with flour. Stir and continue to cook flour mixture another 4-5 minutes.
  • 6. Whisk in stock and red wine vinegar and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and continue to cook until a thick gravy consistency is reached. Remove from heat.
  • 7. Cut chicken into small cubes or shred and mix into the gravy.
  • 8. Add frozen vegetables and stir, mixing thoroughly.
  • 9. Assemble individual pot pies with rolled out dough, filling, and more dough on top. Seal edges by pinching or using the tines of a fork then use a fork or sharp knife to poke a few small holes in the top of the pie.
  • 10. Bake 25 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before serving.