Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie
An Irresistible Twist on a Classic: Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie
There’s something about a chicken pot pie that brings comfort to any meal. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftovers, and if you’ve got some pie crusts stashed away in the freezer, it comes together beautifully in no time. Pair that with the creamy goodness of broccoli cheddar soup, and you have a delightful mashup that’s sure to impress. Imagine a flaky pie crust filled with hearty chicken and a rich, cheesy broccoli filling—it’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie is not just any pot pie. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that’s both satisfying and comforting. The combination of tender chicken, melted cheddar, and broccoli in a creamy sauce all encased in a flaky crust is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for those who might not be the biggest fans!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing spoon
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 pie crusts, unbaked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 white onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated and divided
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 1 1/2 cups frozen broccoli florets
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or nonstick spray. Line the dish with one of the pie crusts and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until it begins to soften, about 2 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the flour and let it cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, followed by the cream cheese. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese melts and the mixture thickens. Season with ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Turn off the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Mix in the broccoli and chicken.
- Pour the filling into the prepared pie shell and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Place the second pie crust on top, then fold and crimp the edges to seal. Cut 4 slits in the center of the pie to allow steam to escape.
- Whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush it over the top crust.
- Bake the pie until it turns golden brown, approximately 40-45 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to help it blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
- For a crispier crust, consider baking the bottom pie shell for a few minutes before adding the filling.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Feel free to swap out the frozen broccoli for fresh if you have it on hand—just blanch it briefly before adding it to the filling.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the filling.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 450 | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 32g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and bake when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have pie crusts? No worries! You can make a biscuit topping instead or use puff pastry for a different texture.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely. Just wrap individual slices tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to please the whole family, give this Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie a try. It’s a delightful twist on a classic recipe that combines the best of two beloved dishes. We hope you enjoy making and tasting this pie as much as we enjoyed creating it. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any creative twists you come up with in the comments below!