Chicken à la King is a classic comfort food, and when baked into a flaky, golden pot pie, it transforms into an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion.
This recipe delivers rich, creamy chicken and vegetables enveloped in a buttery crust that will satisfy every craving. Whether you're making individual pot pies or a large family-style dish, this guide will walk you through each step to ensure a perfect result.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Classic Comfort Food: Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor.
Flaky, Buttery Crust: A golden pastry elevates this dish to gourmet status.
Great for Leftovers: Uses leftover chicken or turkey for a quick, hearty meal.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when needed.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup frozen peas
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter option)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
For the Crust:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
Add the mushrooms, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Stir in the cooked chicken, peas, and fresh parsley. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Pot Pies
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Divide the filling into four ramekins or pour into a 9-inch pie dish.
Roll out the puff pastry slightly to fit over the ramekins or dish.
Cut the pastry into circles slightly larger than the ramekin tops and place them over the filling.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush it over the pastry for a golden finish.
Step 3: Bake
Place the pot pies on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken à la King Pot Pies
Use Leftover Chicken: This is a perfect way to repurpose roast chicken or Thanksgiving turkey.
Thicken Your Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes to reach the desired consistency.
Customize the Vegetables: Add carrots, corn, or celery for more texture and flavor.
Make it Ahead: Prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust Instead of Puff Pastry?
Yes! You can use pie crust, phyllo dough, or even biscuit dough for a different texture.
2. Can I Freeze Chicken à la King Pot Pies?
Absolutely! Assemble the pot pies, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
3. How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
For a lighter version:
Use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
Reduce butter to 2 tablespoons.
Substitute puff pastry with a thin layer of phyllo dough.
4. Can I Make This in a Single Large Pie Dish?
Yes! Simply pour the filling into a 9-inch pie dish, cover with pastry, and bake for 25-30 minutes.
5. What Can I Serve with Chicken à la King Pot Pies?
This dish pairs well with:
A crisp green salad
Garlic mashed potatoes
Steamed green beans
6. How Can I Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust?
If you prefer a bottom crust, pre-bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling to keep it crispy.
7. Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of heavy cream and swap butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Final Thoughts
Chicken à la King Pot Pies are the ultimate cozy, satisfying meal. With a creamy filling, vibrant vegetables, and a crispy crust, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table. Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect blend of comfort and elegance!
Let me know if you’d like any adjustments to the recipe!
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