Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe: Easy Comfort Food at Its Best

Introduction

Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is the perfect blend of flaky crust, tender chicken, and creamy vegetables. Using Pillsbury pie crusts makes this classic dish incredibly easy to prepare while maintaining its comforting, homemade taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making a delicious Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie, with tips for variations and serving ideas.

Ingredients for Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Making a Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is simple and requires only a handful of ingredients. Here’s everything you need to create this comforting dish.

Core Ingredients

1. Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts (1 box, 2 crusts)

Why It’s Important: These ready-made crusts make the recipe quick and easy while still delivering a flaky, golden texture.
Tips: Let the crusts sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before unrolling to prevent cracking.

2. Cooked Chicken (2 cups, shredded or diced)

Why It’s Important: Tender, flavorful chicken is the star of the filling. Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.

3. Mixed Vegetables (2 cups, frozen or fresh)

Why It’s Important: A classic mix of peas, carrots, green beans, and corn adds color, texture, and nutrition to the filling.

4. Creamy Sauce

Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
Why It’s Important: This rich and creamy sauce ties all the ingredients together with a savory flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley or thyme for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or parmesan for an extra creamy filling.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a hearty, earthy flavor.

Substitutions

Chicken Alternatives: Use turkey or a plant-based chicken substitute for a twist.
Crust Options: Try Pillsbury crescent roll dough or biscuit dough for a unique variation.
Vegetable Options: Use fresh, diced vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or spinach if preferred.

With your ingredients ready, you’re all set to assemble and bake a delicious Chicken Pot Pie.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie with a flaky crust and creamy filling.

1 – Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Lightly grease a 9-inch pie pan or baking dish to prevent sticking.

2 – Prepare the Filling

Make the Creamy Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, melt 1/3 cup butter over medium heat.
Whisk in 1/3 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually add 1 3/4 cups chicken broth and 2/3 cup milk, whisking until smooth.
Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat.

Combine the Filling:

In a large bowl, mix together:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir until well combined.

3 – Assemble the Pot Pie

Prepare the Bottom Crust:

Roll out one Pillsbury pie crust and fit it into the prepared pie pan, pressing it firmly against the bottom and sides.
Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge.

Add the Filling:

Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.

Add the Top Crust:

Unroll the second pie crust and place it over the filling.
Seal the edges by pinching or crimping them with a fork.
Cut 3–4 small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4 – Bake the Pot Pie

Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.

5 – Cool and Serve

Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Slice into wedges and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Your Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is ready to enjoy! In the next section, we’ll explore ways to customize your pot pie with different fillings and flavors.

Customizing Your Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

One of the best things about Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to add more flavor, try different fillings, or adapt it for dietary needs, this dish can be made your own with a few simple tweaks.

Add More Flavor

1. Fresh Herbs

Stir in chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary for an aromatic boost.
Sprinkle fresh herbs on top of the pie after baking for a pop of flavor.

2. Spices

Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for subtle heat.
Use garlic powder or Italian seasoning for a savory twist.

3. Cheese

Mix in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or gruyere for a cheesy, rich filling.
Sprinkle grated parmesan over the top crust before baking for extra flavor.

Try New Fillings

1. Protein Alternatives

Replace chicken with turkey, ham, or ground beef for a different twist.
Use plant-based chicken or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly option.

2. Vegetable Options

Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini for extra nutrition.
Swap mixed vegetables for fresh, seasonal produce like asparagus or bell peppers.

3. Seafood Twist

Use cooked shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken for a coastal-inspired pot pie.

Explore New Crusts

1. Biscuit Crust

Top your pie with Pillsbury biscuit dough instead of pie crust for a fluffy, buttery topping.

2. Crescent Roll Crust

Use Pillsbury crescent roll dough for a flaky, golden alternative.

3. Mashed Potato Topping

Swap the top crust for creamy mashed potatoes to create a shepherd’s pie-inspired dish.

Make It Healthier

1. Lower Calorie Options

Use low-fat milk and reduced-sodium chicken broth in the sauce.
Replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.

2. Whole-Grain Crust

Use a whole-grain pie crust for added fiber and nutrients.

3. Lighten the Filling

Replace half the sauce with unsweetened almond milk or vegetable broth for fewer calories.
Add more vegetables and less protein for a lighter, veggie-packed pie.

Adapt for Special Diets

1. Gluten-Free

Use gluten-free pie crusts and flour alternatives for the sauce, such as cornstarch or almond flour.

2. Dairy-Free

Replace butter with vegan butter or margarine and use plant-based milk in the sauce.

3. Vegetarian

Omit the chicken and use hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and cauliflower.

Customizing your Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie allows you to get creative and make it fit your taste and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions for Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

A Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is a hearty and satisfying main dish, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can elevate the meal even further. Here are some ideas for creating a well-rounded and delicious dining experience.

Side Dish Ideas

1. Salads

Garden Salad: A light mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the pot pie.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons provide a savory contrast.

2. Vegetable Sides

Steamed Vegetables: Serve broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a simple and healthy option.
Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips roasted with olive oil and herbs add a touch of sweetness and crunch.

3. Soups

Tomato Soup: A warm, creamy tomato soup pairs well with the flaky crust and creamy filling.
Butternut Squash Soup: This sweet and savory soup adds seasonal flair to your meal.

Bread and Carb Options

1. Rolls or Biscuits

Serve warm dinner rolls or buttery biscuits to soak up any extra sauce from the pot pie.

2. Mashed Potatoes

A side of creamy mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of chives adds comfort and heartiness to the meal.

3. Rice Pilaf

Lightly seasoned rice pilaf complements the savory flavors of the pot pie without overpowering it.

Beverages

1. Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing drinks balance the savory richness of the pot pie.
Sparkling Water with Citrus: Add a slice of lemon or lime for a light and refreshing choice.
Apple Cider: Perfect for fall meals, its sweet and spiced flavor pairs well with pot pie.

2. Alcoholic Options

White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy filling.
Light Beer: A pilsner or wheat beer is a refreshing choice for a casual meal.

Presentation Tips

1. Family-Style Serving

Place the pot pie in the center of the table, surrounded by bowls of side dishes for a cozy, communal feel.

2. Individual Servings

Slice the pot pie into wedges and plate with a small salad or vegetable side for a restaurant-style presentation.

3. Holiday Spread

Pair the pot pie with seasonal sides like cranberry sauce or roasted Brussels sprouts for a festive meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie will shine as the centerpiece of a complete and satisfying meal.

FAQs About Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying a Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie.

Should you prebake the bottom crust of a chicken pot pie?

Prebaking the bottom crust, or “blind baking,” can help prevent sogginess. However, it’s not necessary when using Pillsbury pie crusts, as they’re designed to bake evenly with the filling. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can prebake it for 5–7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) before adding the filling.

How do you use Pillsbury pie crust?

Pillsbury pie crusts are ready to use straight from the package. Here’s how to prepare them:

Let the crust sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften.
Unroll the crust and place it into your pie dish, pressing gently to fit the bottom and sides.
Trim any excess dough and use the remaining crust for the top.
Follow the recipe instructions for assembling and baking.

What is the sauce made of in chicken pot pie?

The sauce in a chicken pot pie is typically a roux-based mixture made from:

Butter and flour: These create a thick, creamy base.
Chicken broth and milk: Combined for a savory, rich flavor.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and onion powder enhance the overall taste.
The result is a smooth and flavorful sauce that ties the filling together.

Is chicken pot pie an American thing?

While chicken pot pie is a popular comfort food in the United States, the dish has European roots. Meat pies have been a staple in British cuisine for centuries. The American version typically includes a creamy filling and vegetables, making it distinct from traditional British meat pies.

What do the British call pot pies?

In Britain, what Americans call “pot pies” are often referred to as meat pies or savory pies. These pies usually have a thicker, shortcrust pastry and are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as beef, lamb, or chicken, often in a gravy-based filling.

Conclusion

A Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining a flaky crust with a creamy, savory filling. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it to your liking, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Armed with these tips, tricks, and FAQs, you’re ready to make a pot pie that’s as satisfying as it is easy.

Craving more comforting meals? Indulge in our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole or try the protein-packed Chicken Bone Broth. For a different twist, explore our Chicken Dressing Recipe.