Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is a delightful twist on the classic comfort dish that combines the hearty flavors of a traditional chicken pot pie with the ease of slow cooking. By utilizing a crock pot, the recipe allows for the ingredients to meld together over several hours, creating a rich, savory filling that pairs perfectly with a flaky biscuit topping. This dish has gained popularity due to its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for busy families or anyone seeking a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

The slow cooker method not only enhances the flavors but also ensures that the chicken remains tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. As a staple of comfort food, chicken pot pie evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, providing a sense of home-cooked goodness with every bite. Whether you’re looking to simplify dinner preparation or crave the familiar taste of a classic dish, crock pot chicken pot pie offers a comforting and convenient solution that appeals to all ages. The combination of ease, flavor, and comfort makes this recipe a go-to for cozy weeknight dinners or as a hearty meal for gatherings.

The Origins of Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations, where variations of savory pies were enjoyed across different cultures. The concept of encasing meat and vegetables in a pastry shell can be traced to Roman times, but it was in medieval England that the pot pie began to resemble the dish we know today. These early versions often featured a variety of meats and were cooked in a deep dish with a crust on top.

The modern chicken pot pie, as we recognize it, became popular in the United States during the 19th century. It evolved from the traditional English meat pies but was adapted to include more accessible ingredients like chicken, peas, and carrots. The dish became a staple in American households, especially during the colder months, as it provided a hearty and filling meal.

The evolution to crock pot versions of chicken pot pie reflects a modern adaptation to fit contemporary lifestyles. With the rise of slow cooking in the mid-20th century, busy families sought ways to enjoy traditional meals with less hands-on time in the kitchen. The crock pot method allows for the same rich flavors and comforting experience while providing the convenience of set-it-and-forget-it cooking.

Why Use a Crock Pot?

Using a crock pot to make chicken pot pie offers numerous benefits, primarily due to the advantages of slow cooking. One of the key benefits is the ability to cook ingredients slowly over a long period, allowing flavors to develop and intensify. As the chicken and vegetables simmer together in the crock pot, they absorb the rich flavors of the broth and seasonings, resulting in a deeply savory and cohesive filling.

Slow cooking also ensures that the chicken remains tender and juicy, as it cooks at a low, steady temperature. This method prevents the common issue of overcooking, which can lead to dry or tough meat. The vegetables, too, achieve a perfect balance of softness without becoming mushy, maintaining their individual textures while contributing to the overall harmony of the dish.

For busy families, the convenience of a crock pot is unmatched. Once the ingredients are prepared and added to the pot, the meal requires little to no supervision, freeing up time for other activities. This “set it and forget it” approach is particularly appealing for those with hectic schedules, as it allows for a homemade, comforting meal to be ready when you are, with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Essential Ingredients

Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie relies on a few key ingredients that create its rich, comforting flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the main components:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs:
- Flavor/Texture: Chicken breasts are lean and cook to a tender texture, while thighs offer a richer flavor due to their higher fat content. Thighs are more forgiving in slow cooking, staying moist even after long cook times.
- Substitution: You can use either, depending on your preference. For an even more flavorful dish, consider using bone-in, skinless thighs.
Vegetables (Carrots, Peas, Potatoes, Celery):
- Flavor/Texture: These vegetables are the backbone of the pot pie, contributing sweetness (carrots), earthiness (potatoes), and a mix of textures. Celery adds a slight crunch, while peas provide a burst of freshness.
- Substitution: Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like green beans, corn, or mushrooms for added variety.
Chicken Broth:
- Flavor/Texture: The broth forms the base of the gravy, adding depth and richness to the filling. It infuses the chicken and vegetables with savory flavor as they slow cook.
- Substitution: For a deeper flavor, you can use homemade chicken stock. Vegetable broth is a good alternative for a lighter taste.
Cream of Chicken Soup:
- Flavor/Texture: This ingredient thickens the broth into a creamy gravy, making the filling rich and hearty.
- Substitution: You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile or use a homemade roux with milk and flour for a more from-scratch approach.
Biscuit Dough:
- Flavor/Texture: Biscuit dough is traditionally used as a topping, adding a golden, flaky crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Substitution: Puff pastry, crescent roll dough, or even homemade biscuits can be used depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Prepping the Crock Pot

Before you begin, it’s important to prepare your crock pot to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup. Start by spraying the inside of the crock pot with non-stick cooking spray or lightly coating it with oil. This will help prevent the filling from sticking to the sides and make cleaning up easier. If your crock pot tends to cook hotter on one side, it’s helpful to rotate the crock pot during cooking to ensure even heat distribution.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by chopping the chicken into bite-sized pieces and dicing your vegetables. For convenience, you can use frozen mixed vegetables, which are already prepped and ready to go.

Layer the Ingredients:
In the crock pot, layer the diced chicken at the bottom, followed by the vegetables. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Add the Liquid:
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring it covers the chicken and vegetables. Then, add the cream of chicken soup. Stir the ingredients slightly to combine, but be careful not to mix too much as you want the ingredients to cook in layers.
Set the Heat:
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set it to low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours if you want a slow, deep cook that allows flavors to meld perfectly. Alternatively, you can set the crock pot to high heat for a quicker cook time of 3 to 4 hours. This will achieve similar results, but the longer cook time generally yields more tender chicken and richer flavors.

Prepare the Biscuit Topping:
About 30 minutes before serving, prepare your biscuit dough. If using refrigerated biscuit dough, simply place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake according to package instructions. If making homemade biscuits, prepare the dough and bake until golden brown.
Finishing Touches:
Once the crock pot mixture is fully cooked, give it a gentle stir to evenly distribute the ingredients. For a thicker consistency, you can whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water. Serve the chicken and vegetable filling in bowls, topping each portion with a warm, flaky biscuit.

Tips for Achieving Perfect Texture

Avoid Over-Mixing: Stir gently when combining ingredients in the crock pot to maintain the integrity of the vegetables and chicken.

Monitor Moisture Levels: If the filling seems too thick during cooking, add a little extra broth. Conversely, if it’s too thin, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last hour to let excess moisture evaporate.
Biscuit Timing: Bake the biscuits just before serving to ensure they are fresh and crispy.

Biscuits: The Perfect Topping

Choosing the Right Biscuit

When it comes to topping your crock pot chicken pot pie, the choice between homemade and store-bought biscuits depends on your time and preference. Homemade biscuits offer a fresher taste and flakier texture, allowing you to customize the flavor with herbs or cheese. However, store-bought biscuits are a convenient and reliable option that still deliver a satisfying, buttery crust.

Baking Tips for Biscuits

To achieve perfectly golden, flaky biscuits, it’s essential to keep the dough cold before baking, which helps create those desirable layers. Preheat your oven to the correct temperature, and avoid overworking the dough to prevent tough biscuits. If you’re using store-bought dough, follow the package instructions closely, ensuring the biscuits are fully cooked but not overdone.

Alternative Toppings

For a twist on the traditional biscuit topping, consider using puff pastry for an extra flaky, delicate crust, or crescent dough for a buttery, soft topping with a slightly sweet flavor. Both options bake up beautifully and provide a different texture that complements the creamy filling of the chicken pot pie.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Enhancing Flavors

To boost the flavor of your crock pot chicken pot pie, consider adding a variety of spices and herbs. Thyme, rosemary, and sage are classic choices that complement the savory nature of the dish. For a subtle heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of paprika can elevate the taste. You can also experiment with different vegetables; mushrooms, parsnips, or leeks bring unique textures and flavors that enrich the overall dish.

Variations

There are numerous ways to vary the traditional recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs:

Using Puff Pastry: Swap the biscuit topping with puff pastry for an extra flaky and elegant crust. Simply bake the puff pastry separately and place it on top just before serving.
Adding Mushrooms: Incorporating mushrooms into the filling adds an earthy depth of flavor and a meaty texture that pairs well with the chicken and vegetables.

Cheese Topping: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan over the biscuits before baking.

Adapting for Dietary Restrictions

Adapting this recipe for dietary needs is straightforward:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for homemade biscuits or a gluten-free puff pastry. Ensure the cream of chicken soup and broth are also gluten-free.

Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with a dairy-free version or use coconut milk thickened with a cornstarch slurry. Opt for dairy-free biscuits or puff pastry.
Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the biscuits and top the pot pie with cauliflower mash or almond flour biscuits to keep it low in carbohydrates.

Serving Suggestions

How to Plate and Present the Dish

To serve crock pot chicken pot pie, spoon the warm, creamy chicken and vegetable filling into shallow bowls or deep plates. Top each serving with a freshly baked biscuit or puff pastry square, placing it slightly off-center to reveal the savory filling beneath. For a rustic look, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme, which adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma.

Side Dishes That Complement

Crock pot chicken pot pie is a hearty meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with light, fresh side dishes. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pot pie. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus are excellent vegetable sides that complement the dish without overwhelming it. For a comforting and classic combination, serve with a side of mashed potatoes or buttered corn. These sides balance the creamy filling and add variety to the meal, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

Storing Leftovers

Best Practices for Storing

To keep leftovers fresh and maintain their quality, store the filling and biscuits separately. Transfer the chicken pot pie filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Store the biscuits in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate them to extend freshness.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating, gently warm the filling on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to restore the creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. If you’re using a microwave, reheat the filling in a microwave-safe dish, covered, on medium power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.

For the biscuits, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they are warm and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving the biscuits as it can make them chewy. Once both components are warmed, serve them together, ensuring the biscuit retains its texture while the filling stays rich and flavorful.

Freezing and Meal Prep

How to Freeze the Chicken Pot Pie Filling

To freeze the chicken pot pie filling, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, then label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips for Defrosting and Reheating

To defrost, move the frozen filling to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. For quicker defrosting, place the container in cold water. Reheat the filling on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave on medium power, stirring every 2 minutes.

Meal Prep Strategies for Busy Weeks

For easy meal prep, prepare the filling ahead of time and freeze in portion-sized containers. When ready to serve, bake fresh biscuits or use store-bought ones while reheating the filling. You can also freeze unbaked biscuits separately and bake them directly from the freezer as needed. This approach allows for quick assembly of a hearty meal during busy weeks.

FAQs

1. Can you use different soups?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with other varieties like cream of mushroom, celery, or even a dairy-free option. Each alternative will slightly alter the flavor, offering a different twist on the dish.

2. How do I fix runny gravy?
If your gravy is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the hot filling, and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a bit of chicken broth to loosen it up.

3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cream soup and substitute regular biscuits with gluten-free options. Ensure that any thickeners, like cornstarch or flour, are also gluten-free.

4. What if the vegetables are too soft?
To avoid overly soft vegetables, cut them into larger chunks or add them later in the cooking process if you’re using the crock pot on high heat.

5. How do I prevent dry chicken?
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts, or ensure the breasts are fully submerged in the broth during cooking to keep them moist.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie combines the hearty, comforting flavors of a classic dish with the convenience of slow cooking, making it an ideal option for busy families and anyone craving a warm, satisfying meal. The slow cooker not only enhances the depth of flavor but also ensures that the chicken remains tender and the vegetables perfectly cooked. This dish is versatile, allowing for easy substitutions and adaptations to meet various dietary needs.

If you’re looking for a simple, yet delicious, way to enjoy homemade chicken pot pie without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try. The crock pot does most of the work, freeing up your time while still delivering a rich, comforting meal that everyone will love.

For success, remember to layer your ingredients carefully, monitor the consistency of your filling, and choose a biscuit or alternative topping that suits your taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, crock pot chicken pot pie is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy the convenience, flavor, and warmth this dish brings to your table!

Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie

Author: Christine

Print Recipe

Description

This Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy gravy, all cooked slowly to perfection in a crock pot. Topped with golden, flaky biscuits, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners and can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, or thighs
2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup

12 oz frozen mixed vegetables
2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
2 teaspoons onion powder, divided

2 teaspoons black pepper, divided
1 (16.3 oz) can homestyle biscuits, or homemade drop biscuits

Instructions

Spray crockpot liner with non-stick spray. Lay chicken breasts in the bottom of the crockpot and season with 1 teaspoon of each: garlic powder, onion powder and black pepper.

Cover chicken breast with cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup.
Spread mixed frozen vegetables over the soup. Sprinkle the remaining 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper, over the top of the vegetables.
Place lid on the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours, until chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.

15 to 20 minutes before serving, bake the biscuits according to the package directions.
A few minutes before the biscuits are ready, use 2 forks to shred the chicken. Stir until the chicken is covered in the gravy and vegetables.
Serve with a warm biscuit on the top/side or cut the biscuits in half and top with chicken pot pie.

Notes

Feel free to customize this recipe by using different vegetables, or trying alternative toppings like puff pastry or crescent dough. For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, including the soup and biscuits, are gluten-free. Adjust the seasonings to your preference, and enjoy the convenience of a slow-cooked meal that delivers big on flavor.