Homemade Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe

Chicken Pot Pie Casserole brings the wholesome flavors of a classic pot pie in an easy-to-make, serve-to-a-crowd form. This delectable dish is not only a testament to comfort food but a staple in the cookbook of many home cooks. If you're new to the world of casseroles or looking for a fresh twist on a beloved meal, follow this comprehensive guide to craft a savory delight that will have your family coming back for seconds.

Follow along as we blend simplicity with robust flavors to create a quintessential comfort dish. Grab a pen, jot down your grocery list, and prepare to impress your taste buds.

Ingredients and Substitutes

The heart of any recipe lies in its ingredients. Here's what you'll need to adorn your pantry shelves with for this meal:

For the Filling:

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (or 1/2 cup each)
1 medium onion, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup whole milk
1 large egg, beaten

Optional Seasoning

A pinch of garlic powder or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to taste in the filling
Freshly chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Substitutions:

For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat flour in the topping or use a mixture of 1/2 all-purpose and 1/2 wheat flour.
Replace chicken with turkey, or for a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or extra firm tofu.
Use vegetable broth and olive oil for a vegan alternative to the filling.

Lay out your ingredients before you begin cooking to ensure you have everything you need.

Preparation and Assembly

Preparation is key to a smooth cooking experience. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Filling Prep:

Cook your chicken with a pinch of salt and set it aside to cool. If using raw chicken, baking or boiling will work well.
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the onions and celery until softened about 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring constantly.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, followed by the milk, stirring until smooth.
Add the thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and stir in the peas, carrots, and cooked chicken.

Topping Assembly:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the topping.
Cut in the cubed butter with a pastry cutter, two knives, or your fingers, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gently stir in the milk until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Spread the chicken filling evenly in a 9x13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
Drop the topping mixture in spoonfuls over the filling layer to cover it entirely.
Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden sheen while baking.

Remember, you can prepare the filling and topping in advance, even the night before, so that come cooking time, all you have to do is assemble and bake.

Baking Your Casserole

Now, it's time to bring your casserole to life.

Baking Instructions:

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
For an extra crunchy crust, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving and Storing Your Creation

Casseroles are perfect for feeding a crowd or for batch cooking for the week.

Serving Suggestions:

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help it to set and be easier to portion.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Customizing Your Casserole

No two casserole aficionados are the same, and neither should their dishes be.

Variations and Substitutions:

For a creamy filling, stir in a quarter cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the end.
Kick up the heat by adding a generous pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
If you're a fan of cheese, sprinkle some grated cheddar or Parmesan over the topping before baking for a cheesy twist.
Make it gluten-free by using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute for the topping and a thickener like cornstarch instead of flour in the filling.

Experiment with these suggestions to make your casserole an even more personalized experience.

Conclusion

Cooking a Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a delightful experience, from the gentle sautéing of your vegetables to the warm aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. It's more than just a meal; it's an opportunity to evoke memories and create new ones with every bite.

By following this guide, you are empowered to build a casserole that resonates with your and your family's tastes. Encourage loved ones to participate in its creation, fostering a sense of togetherness often found around the dinner table.

Now that you've been equipped with all the tools you need, it's time to put on your apron and whisk up this culinary classic. The pot's bubbling, the scents are wafting, and your casserole adventure is about to begin. Happy cooking!