Handheld Chicken Pot Pie: A Hearty Snack for Everyone

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Handheld Chicken Pot Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional comfort food we all love. This recipe features a flaky homemade crust that envelops a savory mixture of tender chicken, vegetables, and fragrant herbs. Whether you’re preparing a hearty meal for a family gathering or a quick snack for yourself, these individual pies are perfect for any occasion. They are great for potlucks, lunchboxes, or simply enjoying at home. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that is sure to please everyone’s palate!

Why You’ll Love This Handheld Chicken Pot Pie

This recipe for Handheld Chicken Pot Pie offers numerous benefits that make it a favorite among many. First, it is incredibly versatile; you can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Second, these pies are portable, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a Chicken Pot Pie for On-the-Go meal. The flaky crust paired with a creamy filling creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Additionally, they are suitable for meal prep, allowing you to prepare them ahead of time and freeze for future use. Lastly, they are a hit with kids, making them a fantastic choice for family dinners!

Ingredients for Handheld Chicken Pot Pie

Gather these items:

6 tbsp. Unsalted Butter, Divided
1 cup Chopped Celery
1 cup Chopped Carrot
1 cup Diced Potato
2 cups Chopped Yellow Onion
1/4 tsp Dried Thyme
1/4 tsp Dried Rosemary
1/2 tsp Salt
1 cup Peas (Frozen Is Fine)
2 cups Diced Cooked Chicken
1/2 cup Flour
3 cups Chicken Stock
3 3/4 cups All-purpose Flour
3 sticks Unsalted Butter, Cubed
1/2 to 2/3 cup Cold Ice Water, As Needed
1 Egg, Beaten With 1 Tablespoon Water (Egg Wash)

How to Make Handheld Chicken Pot Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the cubed unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped celery, carrot, diced potato, and yellow onion. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in dried thyme, rosemary, and salt for flavor.
Step 3: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of flour over the cooked vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in 3 cups of chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Simmer the mixture until it thickens to a creamy consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the peas and diced cooked chicken, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 5: On a lightly floured surface, divide the chilled dough into portions appropriate for making 8 individual pot pies. Roll each portion into a circle large enough to create a base and a top for each pie.
Step 6: Place a rolled dough circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling onto the center, leaving space around the edges. Cover with another dough circle and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative border. Cut small slits on top of each pie to allow steam to escape.
Step 7: Brush the tops of each pot pie with the beaten egg mixed with water to give them a golden, glossy finish when baked.
Step 8: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pies for about 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Handheld Chicken Pot Pie

Keep these in mind:

These pies are perfect for potlucks, lunches, or family dinners.
You can freeze these pies before baking for future meals; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
For a crispy crust, use cold butter and ice water in your dough.

Best Ways to Serve Handheld Chicken Pot Pie

These delightful pies can be enjoyed in various settings. Serve them as a Chicken Pot Pie Snack for a quick bite or as part of a hearty dinner. Pair them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a fantastic lunch option, especially for those busy days when you need something quick and fulfilling.

How to Store and Reheat Handheld Chicken Pot Pie

To store your Handheld Chicken Pot Pie, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method ensures your pie retains its crispy crust. These pies are also great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them anytime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Handheld Chicken Pot Pie

What’s the secret to perfect Handheld Chicken Pot Pie?

The secret lies in the dough and the filling. Use cold ingredients for the crust to ensure it stays flaky, and allow the filling to cool before assembling. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy.

Can I make Handheld Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and the dough a day ahead. Assemble the pies, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze them for later use.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Handheld Chicken Pot Pie?

To avoid soggy bottoms, ensure your filling is not too watery and let it cool slightly before filling the crust. Also, make sure to cut ventilation slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Variations of Handheld Chicken Pot Pie You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize your Handheld Chicken Pot Pie. Consider making a Mini Chicken Pot Pie version for smaller portions or adding different vegetables like corn or green beans for added flavor. For a twist, try a Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry instead of traditional crust for a lighter touch. If you’re looking for healthier options, using whole grain flour for the crust or adding more vegetables can create a nutritious version suitable for various dietary preferences.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. If you’re interested in dessert options, you might enjoy our Salted Caramel Cookies or Caramel Apple Cheesecake. Don’t forget to visit our About Me page to learn more about our culinary journey!