These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are a cozy comfort food that packs all the classic flavors of a pot pie into a portable, handheld meal. The flaky crust encases a rich, savory filling made of tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, making each bite warm and satisfying.
Whether you’re making these for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, these hand pies are a delicious and hearty option that can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. With the convenience of refrigerated pie crust and a quick prep time, these Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Full Recipe:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup diced potatoes
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust (2 crusts)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Add shredded chicken, peas, carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Roll out pie crust and cut into circles (4-5 inches in diameter).
- Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto half of each circle, fold the crust over, and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops of each pie with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 8 hand pies
About Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies:
Chicken Pot Pie is a beloved comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries, with its roots tracing back to Medieval Europe. Originally, pot pies were made to encase meat fillings in thick crusts, often referred to as “coffins,” and were cooked over open flames. Today, chicken pot pie remains a classic dish, especially in American and British cuisine, known for its creamy chicken and vegetable filling enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. Hand pies offer a modern twist, making this dish more portable and convenient for busy families or on-the-go meals.
These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies retain all the flavors of the traditional version but in an easy-to-hold, individual serving size. The golden flaky crust provides the perfect balance to the rich, savory chicken filling. The use of store-bought pie crust cuts down on prep time, making this dish quick and accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are incredibly versatile and can be served as a main course, appetizer, or even a snack. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Weeknight Dinner: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.
- Party Appetizer: These hand pies make an excellent addition to any gathering or potluck. Serve with a dipping sauce like gravy or a creamy herb dip to elevate the dish.
- Lunchbox Favorite: These pies are perfect for meal prepping. They store well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, making them a great option for packed lunches or quick snacks.
Recipe Variations:
While the original recipe calls for chicken and vegetables, you can modify it to suit various preferences or dietary restrictions:
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms, lentils, or tofu, and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Beef or Turkey: Swap the chicken with ground beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Addition: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the filling for a rich, cheesy variation.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pie crust to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies:
- Sealing the Crust: To prevent the filling from leaking out, make sure to press the edges of the pie crusts firmly with a fork. A good egg wash can also help keep the pies sealed and give them a golden, shiny finish.
- Avoid Soggy Crusts: Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the pies to avoid a soggy bottom crust.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftover pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crust’s crispiness.
Nutritional Information:
These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are a comforting meal with a balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. The use of pre-cooked chicken and vegetables keeps the filling light, while the pie crust adds that comforting richness everyone craves. A serving of 1 hand pie contains approximately 290 kcal, making it a hearty yet manageable dish that fits into most meal plans.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Portable and Convenient: These hand pies are easy to serve, pack, and eat on the go, making them ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Customizable: You can adapt the filling to include your favorite ingredients or use up leftovers from other meals.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of chicken pot pie in a fun, handheld form.
Cultural Significance of Chicken Pot Pie:
Chicken Pot Pie is a dish that transcends generations and cultures, embodying comfort and tradition. In the United States, it’s seen as a nostalgic meal, often bringing back memories of home-cooked family dinners, especially during colder months. The origins of pot pie can be traced back to early settlers who adapted European meat pies into the more familiar versions seen today.
In the UK, pies filled with meats and vegetables have long been a staple, especially during the Middle Ages when pies served as hearty meals that could easily feed large groups. While traditional pot pies are baked in large dishes, hand pies were historically portable meals for workers in fields or mines, offering a convenient and filling solution. The Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pie brings this historic dish into the modern kitchen by combining the flavors and textures of the classic version with the portability and convenience of a hand-held pastry.
Ingredient Insights and Alternatives:
- Pie Crust: While the recipe uses store-bought pie crust to simplify preparation, you can also make your own from scratch if you have time. A homemade crust made with butter or lard will add an extra layer of flakiness and richness. For a healthier twist, consider using a whole-wheat crust or puff pastry.
- Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, or cook your own chicken breast or thighs to shred for the filling. Chicken thighs add a richer flavor due to their higher fat content, while breast meat is leaner and lighter.
- Vegetable Variations:
- Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preference.
- Mushrooms, sweet corn, leeks, or bell peppers are great additions to the classic pea and carrot combo.
- If you want a more robust flavor, you can roast your vegetables before mixing them into the filling.
- Herbs and Spices: While thyme adds an earthy note that pairs well with chicken, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley. For a bit of warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or smoked paprika to the filling.
- Dairy-Free Option: For those who are lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or an unsweetened almond milk-based cream. Ensure you use dairy-free pie crust if necessary.
Advanced Cooking Tips for Perfect Hand Pies:
- Chill the Dough: If you’re making the pie crust from scratch, it’s crucial to chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps the butter stay cold, leading to a flakier crust once baked. Even if you use store-bought dough, chilling it for 10 minutes after shaping and before baking helps maintain its structure.
- Filling Consistency: It’s important to ensure the filling isn’t too watery, as excess moisture can result in a soggy bottom crust. If your filling seems too liquidy, cook it a little longer to reduce the liquid, or add a bit more flour to thicken it.
- Crimping the Edges: When sealing the hand pies, make sure you crimp the edges tightly with a fork to prevent the filling from leaking during baking. For extra assurance, brush a little water along the edge of the dough before folding it over.
- Ventilation: Don’t forget to cut a small slit in the top of each hand pie before baking to allow steam to escape. This prevents the pies from bursting open in the oven and ensures the filling cooks evenly.
Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigeration: These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore the crispy texture of the crust.
- Freezing: If you’d like to prepare these ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. To freeze, prepare the pies as instructed but don’t bake them. Lay the assembled hand pies on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an additional 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating from Frozen: When reheating frozen pies, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, until heated through and golden brown.
Healthier Adjustments:
- Reduce the Calories: To lower the calorie count, opt for a lighter pie crust made from whole wheat flour or phyllo dough. You can also reduce the amount of cream or replace it with low-fat alternatives like Greek yogurt or cashew cream.
- Lower Fat Content: Substitute butter with a plant-based margarine, or use olive oil for sautéing the vegetables instead of butter.
- Increase Fiber: To increase fiber intake, replace regular pie crust with a whole wheat crust or incorporate more fiber-rich vegetables like sweet potatoes or lentils into the filling.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to bulk up the filling with extra vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or butternut squash to increase the nutritional value without adding significant calories.
Fun Facts About Hand Pies:
- Historic Roots: Hand pies date back to the early 19th century, where Cornish pasties (similar to hand pies) were eaten by miners in England. The thick crust allowed miners to hold their lunch without utensils, and the crust could be discarded if it became dirty.
- Around the World: Hand pies are a staple in many cultures, from empanadas in Latin America to samosas in India. Each country adds its own unique twist, filling the pies with anything from spiced meats to sweet fruit fillings.
Pairing Suggestions:
These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are rich and savory, so it’s best to pair them with light, fresh sides that balance the flavors:
- Salads: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the buttery richness of the pies.
- Soups: Serve alongside a light vegetable or tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- Beverages: Pair the pies with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay, or for non-alcoholic options, a cold glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a refreshing choice.
Make it Your Own:
One of the best parts about hand pies is that they’re endlessly customizable. Here are some ideas for giving this recipe a personal twist:
- International Flavors: Add spices from your favorite cuisine, such as curry powder for an Indian-inspired filling or taco seasoning for a Mexican twist.
- Kid-Friendly: If serving for children, you can make mini versions of the hand pies, or shape the dough into fun forms, like stars or hearts.
- Holiday Twist: Incorporate leftover turkey from Thanksgiving and use cranberry sauce as a dipping option to create a festive version of these hand pies.
Conclusion:
Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. With a flaky golden crust and a savory chicken and vegetable filling, they offer a modern, portable twist on a classic dish. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, prepping meals for the week, or entertaining guests, these hand pies are versatile, customizable, and sure to satisfy. Perfect for busy families or cozy nights in, they capture the essence of homemade goodness in every bite.