Welcome to the comforting world of Hearty Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie! This dish is your ultimate go-to for a cozy meal that wraps you up in nostalgia and warmth. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a little culinary comfort.
Butter is the base for our roux, giving the pie its rich, creamy texture. All-purpose flour thickens the sauce just right. Chicken broth adds depth, while heavy cream gives it that luxurious mouthfeel. Shredded chicken makes it hearty and filling. Carrots, green peas, and celery bring a touch of sweetness and crunch, balancing the savory flavors. Onion and garlic are essential for a flavor boost. Salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary add seasoning and aroma, while puff pastry provides a delightful crispy top. A beaten egg for egg wash ensures a glossy, golden crust.
This pot pie is a meal in itself, but you can pair it with a simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A glass of crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it's hot and ready when your pie is assembled. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become tender and the onions are translucent.
Next, stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking it for about a minute. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce later on. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and keep stirring until the mixture thickens up nicely. You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon.
Add in the shredded chicken and peas, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Mix everything well so that the chicken and veggies are evenly distributed in the thickened sauce. Transfer this delicious filling into a 9-inch pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
Now, roll out your thawed puff pastry and gently lay it over the filling. Trim any excess edges to fit the dish. Brush the top with beaten egg, which will help the pastry achieve that golden sheen. Cut a few small slits in the top to let steam escape during baking.
Bake your pot pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it after 30 minutes; you're looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust. Once done, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve.