Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Easy and Delicious

Chicken pot pie is the ultimate comfort food—warm, creamy, and wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. The Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe takes this classic dish and makes it quick and easy using ready-made pie crusts, rich chicken filling, and simple ingredients. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just craving a hearty meal, this recipe delivers homemade flavor with minimal effort.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Pillsbury chicken pot pie, from gathering the right ingredients to baking it to golden perfection. You’ll also find tips on variations, storage tricks, and answers to common questions. Let’s get started!

Introduction to Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

What is Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie?

The Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is a simplified take on the traditional dish, using Pillsbury’s pre-made pie crust to save time while still achieving that classic, flaky texture. The filling typically consists of shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and mixed vegetables, all encased in a golden, buttery crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers the perfect blend of savory goodness and home-cooked warmth.

Why This Recipe is a Household Favorite

Effortless Preparation – Thanks to pre-made crusts, there’s no need to knead or roll out dough.
Rich, Creamy Filling – A thick and flavorful sauce coats every bite of tender chicken and veggies.
Versatile & Customizable – You can tweak ingredients to suit your taste, from different proteins to unique seasonings.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Bake ahead, freeze leftovers, and enjoy whenever the craving strikes.

Brief History of Pillsbury’s Signature Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie dates back to the 16th century, originating as a way to encase meat in a pastry shell for preservation. Over time, it became a classic comfort dish, especially in American homes. Pillsbury, known for its convenient and time-saving baking products, made this dish even more accessible with its ready-made pie crusts. Today, the Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe remains a go-to choice for busy families and home cooks who crave a homemade meal without the hassle.

Ingredients for the Perfect Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Creating the Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe starts with quality ingredients that bring rich flavors and a perfect texture. Using the right combination of chicken, vegetables, and seasonings ensures every bite is creamy, savory, and satisfying. Below, we’ll break down the essential ingredients, possible variations, and substitutes to make this dish work for everyone.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

To make a delicious Pillsbury chicken pot pie, you’ll need the following:

Cooked Chicken – Rotisserie chicken or leftover shredded chicken works best for a tender and juicy filling.
Pillsbury Pie Crust – Pre-made Pillsbury pie dough ensures a flaky, golden crust without the extra work.
Butter and Flour – These form the base of a rich, creamy roux that thickens the filling.
Chicken Broth and Milk – A combination of broth and dairy creates a smooth, savory sauce.
Mixed Vegetables – A classic blend of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans adds both color and taste.
Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of thyme bring out the best flavors.

Optional Additions for Customization

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some easy tweaks:

Add Mushrooms – Sautéed mushrooms add earthy depth to the filling.
Use Heavy Cream – If you prefer an extra-creamy texture, swap the milk for heavy cream.
Try Different Herbs – Rosemary, sage, or parsley can enhance the overall taste.
Spice it Up – A dash of cayenne or paprika can give the dish a subtle kick.

Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Needs

Whether you’re making this for someone with dietary restrictions or just looking for a healthier version, here are some simple swaps:

Dairy-Free – Use coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk.
Gluten-Free – Swap the flour for cornstarch and use a gluten-free pie crust.
Low-Carb – Skip the crust and make a crustless pot pie casserole.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let’s move on to how to put everything together.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Making the Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is easier than you might think. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a golden, bubbling pot pie on your table in no time.

Preparing the Chicken Filling

The filling is the heart of this recipe. Here’s how to make it rich and creamy:

Melt butter in a pan over medium heat, then add chopped onions. Sauté until soft.
Sprinkle flour over the onions, stirring continuously to form a smooth roux.
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to avoid lumps.
Add the shredded chicken and mixed vegetables, then let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, adjusting to taste. Once thickened, remove from heat.

Creating a Creamy Sauce for the Pie

A good pot pie relies on a thick, flavorful sauce. If the filling seems too thin, let it simmer a little longer, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it. You want a consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Using Pillsbury Pie Crust for a Flaky Finish

Preheat your oven to 425°F for the perfect golden-brown crust.
Roll out one Pillsbury pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it firmly against the sides.
Pour the filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
Place the second crust over the top, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork.
Cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.

Baking Tips for a Golden, Crispy Crust

Brush with egg wash – A light egg wash (beaten egg with a little water) creates a glossy, golden finish.
Cover the edges with foil – This prevents the crust from burning before the filling is fully cooked.
Bake for 30-35 minutes – The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.

Once baked, let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes serving easier.

Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Variations

The Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is already delicious as is, but why not switch things up? With a few tweaks, you can make mini versions, use a slow cooker, or even create a vegetarian alternative. Here are some tasty ways to customize your pot pie while keeping it simple and satisfying.

Mini Chicken Pot Pies for Quick Snacks

If you’re looking for a bite-sized version, try mini pot pies:

Use a muffin tin instead of a full-sized pie dish.
Cut the Pillsbury pie crust into smaller circles to fit the cups.
Spoon the chicken filling into each crust and cover with another layer of dough.
Bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.

These portable pot pies are perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or quick dinners.

Slow Cooker Version for Convenience

Want a hands-off approach? The slow cooker method is a great alternative.

Prepare the filling by placing shredded chicken, broth, milk, and vegetables into the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally.
Top with biscuit dough or serve the filling over baked Pillsbury pie crust for a deconstructed version.

This method is ideal for busy days when you want comfort food without extra effort.

Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you need a meat-free or gluten-free version, here’s how:

Swap chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian filling.
Use gluten-free pie crust or puff pastry to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Thicken the filling with cornstarch instead of flour for a completely gluten-free alternative.

These modifications make the recipe accessible to everyone without sacrificing taste.

For more delicious chicken-based recipes, check out this chicken and yellow rice casserole for another comforting meal idea.

Serving and Storing Your Chicken Pot Pie

Once your Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is ready, it’s time to serve and store it properly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later, these tips will ensure your pie stays fresh and delicious.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Pot Pie

A rich, creamy pot pie pairs well with light, complementary sides. Here are some great options:

Green Salad – A crisp, refreshing salad balances out the hearty filling.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Double up on comfort food with a creamy potato side.
Steamed Vegetables – Keep it simple with broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
Cranberry Sauce – The sweet-tart flavor cuts through the richness of the pie.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Pot pie stores well, making it a great meal for leftovers.

Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or until heated through.
Microwave Tip: If using a microwave, cover the pie with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Freezing and Meal Prep Tips

Want to make an extra pie for later? Follow these freezer-friendly steps:

Assemble the pot pie but do not bake it.
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
Bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-60 minutes, covering the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.

These storage methods keep your pot pie fresh and ready for a quick homemade meal anytime.

FAQs

Why Is My Chicken Pot Pie So Liquidy?

If your chicken pot pie filling is too runny, it’s likely due to excess moisture or insufficient thickening. Here are a few reasons this happens and how to fix it:
Not Enough Thickener – Make sure to use enough flour or cornstarch in the roux to create a creamy, rich sauce.
Too Much Liquid – If the filling looks thin before baking, let it simmer longer to reduce excess liquid.
Vegetables Releasing Water – Frozen veggies can release extra moisture when cooking. To avoid this, thaw and drain them first.
Not Letting the Pie Rest – After baking, let the pie sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the filling to set before slicing.

Can You Use Pillsbury Pie Crust for Chicken Pot Pie?

Absolutely! Pillsbury pie crust is a great shortcut for making a flaky, golden pot pie with minimal effort. It works just as well as homemade crust and can be used for both the top and bottom layers of the pie. Just roll it out, press it into the pie dish, and add your filling.
For an even crispier finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking. This helps create that golden-brown, bakery-style look.

Should You Prebake the Bottom Crust of a Chicken Pot Pie?

Prebaking, or blind baking, the bottom crust is a good idea if you want to prevent sogginess. While it’s not required, it can help create a flaky, crisp base. Here’s how to do it:
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Press the Pillsbury pie crust into the dish and poke a few holes with a fork.
Line with parchment paper and add pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for about 5-7 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 2 minutes.
Let the crust cool slightly before adding the filling, and you’ll have a perfectly crisp bottom layer.

Conclusion

The Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is a timeless comfort dish that brings together rich flavors, creamy textures, and a perfectly flaky crust. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or experimenting with fun variations, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.

By using Pillsbury pie crust, you can save time without compromising on taste. Plus, with so many ways to customize the filling—whether it’s mini pot pies, slow cooker versions, or vegetarian alternatives—this dish can be tailored to suit any preference.