There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, flaky pastry filled with creamy goodness. Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are just that—a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings a smile to your face. Whether you’re juggling a busy schedule or looking to impress your loved ones, these hand pies are the perfect solution. They’re easy to make, deliciously satisfying, and ideal for any occasion. Plus, who can resist the aroma of chicken and vegetables mingling in the oven? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
These Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are a game changer for any home cook. They’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights. The flaky crust envelops a creamy, flavorful filling that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re portable! Whether you’re heading to a picnic or just enjoying a cozy night in, these hand pies deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients for Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken is the star of the show. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
Frozen mixed vegetables: A blend of peas, carrots, and corn adds color and nutrition. Feel free to swap in fresh veggies or your favorites like green beans or bell peppers.
Chicken broth: This adds depth to the filling. Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just fine for convenience.
Heavy cream: For that rich, creamy texture, heavy cream is essential. You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Garlic powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the filling.
Dried thyme: A classic herb that complements the chicken beautifully. Fresh thyme can be used if you have it on hand.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together. Adjust to your taste.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and veggies, it adds a nice richness.
All-purpose flour: This helps thicken the filling, giving it that perfect creamy consistency.
Refrigerated pie crusts: For ease, store-bought pie crusts save time. You can also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Egg (for egg wash): A beaten egg brushed on top gives the hand pies a beautiful golden finish.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
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How to Make Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
Creating these Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious hand pies ready to impress!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures it’s nice and hot when your hand pies are ready to go in. A hot oven is key to achieving that golden, flaky crust we all love!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s heated through. The smell will be irresistible!
Step 3: Thicken the Mixture
Next, sprinkle a tablespoon of flour over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This creamy filling is what makes these hand pies so comforting!
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Now it’s time to roll out the pie crusts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pie crusts. Use a 4-inch round cutter to cut out circles. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing!
Step 5: Assemble the Hand Pies
Place about a tablespoon of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal them tightly. This step is crucial to keep all that delicious filling inside!
Step 6: Bake the Hand Pies
Place your assembled hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for that beautiful golden finish. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Tips for Success
Make sure your filling is cool before assembling the hand pies to prevent soggy crusts.
Don’t overfill the dough circles; a tablespoon of filling is just right.
For extra flavor, try adding a dash of hot sauce or your favorite herbs to the filling.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden brown.
Let the hand pies cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for easy cooking and cleanup.
Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can do the trick!
4-inch round cutter: A glass or jar can serve as a substitute.
Baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Fork: Essential for crimping the edges of your hand pies.
Variations
Vegetable Delight: Swap the chicken for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy twist that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to elevate the flavor profile of your hand pies.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, into the filling for an extra creamy and cheesy bite.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pie crusts to make these hand pies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair your hand pies with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
Dip it: Serve with a side of creamy ranch or zesty hot sauce for added flavor.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a crisp lager or a chilled iced tea to complement the savory filling.
Presentation: Arrange on a rustic wooden board for a charming, homemade touch.
FAQs about Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
Can I make Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the hand pies in advance. Just store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. If you want to freeze them, do so before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded turkey works wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and other veggies. You can also use plant-based proteins for a delicious twist!
How do I store leftover hand pies?
Store any leftover Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the crust nice and flaky!
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Definitely! If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade pie crust adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your taste. Just make sure it’s rolled out thin enough for easy handling.
What’s the best way to serve these hand pies?
These hand pies are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a side salad or dipping sauces like ranch or hot sauce. They also pair well with a cold drink, making them a great choice for gatherings!
Final Thoughts
Making Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of pulling a golden, flaky pastry from the oven fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Each bite is a comforting hug, reminding us of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying them on a busy weeknight or serving them at a gathering, these hand pies are sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the delightful flavors transport you to a cozy place. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious moment!
Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are delicious, flaky pastries filled with a creamy chicken and vegetable mixture, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 package (2 sheets) refrigerated pie crusts
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut out circles using a 4-inch round cutter.
Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle.
Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
Place the hand pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the hand pies cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a twist, try adding different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling.
You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or a plant-based protein for a different flavor.
