There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of a chicken pot pie baking in the oven, isn’t there? You can almost hear the lively chatter of family gathered around the table as the golden crust crackles just right. One afternoon, feeling a bit adventurous but craving a classic, I decided to streamline this beloved dish into a Chicken Pot Pie Skillet version. Not only did this fusion cut my cooking time in half, but it also unleashed a treasure trove of flavors with minimal hassle.
Imagine juicy, seasoned chicken mingling with vibrant mixed veggies and creamy goodness all in one pan! After a long day, this delightful dish captures the essence of home-cooked warmth without any of the fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights—or a casual dinner party—the best part is that it can be whipped up in just 40 minutes. So, grab your skillet and let’s turn that pantry into a haven of homemade comfort!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Pot Pie Skillet
- This Chicken Pot Pie Skillet is an absolute breeze to make, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The combination of juicy chicken, vibrant veggies, and creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
- Visually, the golden brown crust atop the colorful filling makes for an impressive presentation that will wow your family and friends.
Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Ingredients
Getting ready for this Chicken Pot Pie Skillet? You’ll love how simple and satisfying it is!
For the Filling
• Cooked chicken – shredded chicken is perfect for this dish, adding moisture and flavor.
• Frozen mixed vegetables – a convenient way to include vibrant colors and nutrition without the prep.
• Cream of chicken soup – creates a rich, creamy base that binds everything together deliciously.
• Chicken broth – adds depth of flavor; use low-sodium for a healthier twist.
• Onion powder – this gives a subtle sweetness and flavor kick without any chopping fuss.
• Garlic powder – enhances overall taste with a warm, aromatic essence.
• Dried thyme – this herb brings a hint of earthiness that perfectly complements the dish.
For the Crust
• Refrigerated pie crusts – a time-saving option that offers a flaky, golden topping for your skillet creation.
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Skillet
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to create that perfect environment for a golden, flaky crust. This will ensure your Chicken Pot Pie Skillet bakes evenly and comes out just right!
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Combine in a large skillet the cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and heated through—a delightful scent will fill the air!
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Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all bubbling and warmed up, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Roll out the refrigerated pie crust and carefully place it over the heated chicken mixture in the skillet. Make sure the crust covers everything, sealing in all that delicious goodness.
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Cut slits in the crust to allow steam to escape. This is important to avoid a soggy bottom—your golden crust should be crisp and inviting!
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Bake the skillet in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the crust turns beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on it; the aroma will have everyone eagerly waiting!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Pot Pie Skillet preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling (cooked chicken, vegetables, and soup mixture) and store it in the refrigerator up to 3 days ahead, which will save you significant time. To maintain quality, ensure it’s in an airtight container, preventing it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the filling in your skillet for a few minutes until warmed through, roll out the pie crust on top, cut slits, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the last-minute rush!
Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Variations
Feel free to personalize this Chicken Pot Pie Skillet with exciting twists and dietary adjustments that suit your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with coconut milk and use a dairy-free pie crust for a creamy, allergen-friendly option. The coconut adds a warm touch!
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Veggie-Packed: Throw in additional vegetables like diced potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Each addition contributes delightful textures and flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to elevate the heat level for those who enjoy a little spice. Just a pinch can create an exciting flavor profile!
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Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a unique flavor. This can transform the dish into a fragrant masterpiece!
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Quinoa Substitute: Replace the chicken with cooked quinoa for a protein-rich, vegetarian option. Quinoa is nutty and light, providing an interesting twist on the traditional dish.
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Sourdough Crust: Swap the refrigerated pie crust for a homemade sourdough crust for a tangy flavor and crispy texture. The contrast with the filling is simply delightful!
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Loaded Option: Top your skillet with cheese before baking for a gooey, melty delight. Cheddar or mozzarella adds a rich layer that pairs beautifully with all the flavors.
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One-Pan Meal: For a truly easy approach, add pre-cooked rice or pasta to the chicken mixture, creating a hearty, one-pan meal that the whole family will adore.
What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie Skillet?
Make your meal unforgettable by pairing this warm, comforting dish with delightful sides that elevate every bite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy and creamy potatoes infused with garlic create a rich contrast to the savory pot pie filling, making each bite a joy.
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Steamed Green Beans: The fresh, crisp texture of green beans adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the skillet dish beautifully.
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Mixed Leaf Salad: A light salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet, bringing a touch of brightness to the table.
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Homemade Biscuits: Warm, buttery biscuits offer a delightful option for soaking up extra creamy sauce, making them a perfect companion for this dish.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized roasted carrots bring a touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor spectrum of your meal.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of chardonnay with its crisp acidity will cut through the richness of the pot pie, complementing the dish so nicely.
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Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp with a sprinkle of cinnamon serves as a comforting dessert, transitioning the meal from savory to sweet effortlessly.
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Berry Smoothie: For a refreshing drink, a mixed berry smoothie offers a fruity, tangy burst that pairs perfectly after enjoying the savory flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Pot Pie Skillet
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Chicken Pot Pie Skillet fresh and delicious for quick meals.
Freezer: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
Covering: Always cover the pie with foil while reheating to prevent the crust from over-browning. This keeps the texture just right!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet, use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time and ensure a moist filling.
- Don’t skip the step of cutting slits in the crust, as this prevents steam from building up and keeps your bottom crust crispy.
- When mixing the ingredients, stir until everything is well combined and heated through to enhance the flavors.
- Remember to keep an eye on your pie while it bakes; checking for that golden brown color will help you achieve the perfect crust.
Chicken Pot Pie Skillet Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet?
I recommend using shredded cooked chicken, which adds moisture and flavor to your dish. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Just shred it, and you’re good to go!
How should I store leftovers from the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet?
To keep your delicious dish fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to grab a quick meal on busy days without losing any of that home-cooked comfort.
Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie Skillet, and how?
Absolutely! Allow your Chicken Pot Pie Skillet to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What if my pie crust isn’t browning?
If you find your crust isn’t browning as expected, double-check that you’ve cut slits to allow steam to escape. You can also brush the crust with a bit of melted butter or an egg wash before baking for a golden finish. If it’s still a bit pale, pop it back in the oven for a few extra minutes, keeping a close watch!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet?
Definitely! If anyone in your household has allergies, be sure to check all your ingredients. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pie crusts, and if you need to avoid dairy, consider making your own dairy-free cream of chicken substitute with almond milk and gluten-free flour. Always double-check your ingredient labels to be safe.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen in the Chicken Pot Pie Skillet?
Very! Fresh veggies are a fantastic alternative. Just make sure to chop them into small, even pieces and sauté them briefly before adding them to your chicken mixture to ensure they cook evenly. This option will add a lovely, vibrant crunch to your dish!
Equipment
- skillet
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 bag frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth low-sodium recommended
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Crust
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to create that perfect environment for a golden, flaky crust.
- Combine in a large skillet the cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Stir everything together until it's well mixed and heated through.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Roll out the refrigerated pie crust and carefully place it over the heated chicken mixture in the skillet.
- Cut slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the skillet in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the crust turns beautifully golden brown.
