Comforting Mini Chicken Pot Pies for Weeknight Dinners

© Original recipe by The Pantry Post ©

🍗✨ Comforting Mini Chicken Pot Pies for Weeknight Dinners

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a cozy, mouthwatering meal that combines flaky pastry with savory chicken and vegetables, then these mini chicken pot pies are your new best friend. Perfect for weeknights, these handheld chicken pies deliver all the classic flavors of the hearty comfort dish in a cute, convenient size. They’re ideal for satisfying your craving for a warm, crispy, and tender bite, packed with creamy filling and golden crust. Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping meal prep containers, these comforting chicken dinner pies are a must-try.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Handheld and Portable: Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or on-the-go snacks.
• Customizable: Adapt the filling with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
• Made from Scratch: Freshly prepared with simple ingredients, no preservatives.

3. Ingredient Notes

Choosing high-quality ingredients makes all the difference in the flavor and texture of your mini chicken pot pies. For the chicken, opt for organic or free-range if possible—plump, tender chicken breasts or thighs work beautifully. Fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery add vibrant flavor and crunch. I recommend using heavy cream or whole milk for a rich, velvety filling that isn’t too runny. For the pastry, store-bought puff pastry or pie crusts are perfectly suitable, but if you prefer to make your own, a flaky homemade dough adds an extra layer of deliciousness. Seasonings like thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper enhance the savory experience.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To streamline your cooking process, here are some tools that will help you create these comforting mini chicken pot pies with ease:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics: Perfect for baking the mini pies for a crispy, golden crust without turning on the oven.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Essential for cooking the filling and preparing the pastry bases.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: An excellent multi-purpose appliance if you want to bake, air fry, or reheat leftovers.
• KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange: Makes mixing dough and sauces a breeze with powerful performance and durability.

5. How to Make Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Prepare the filling

Start by sautéing diced chicken pieces in a bit of butter until fully cooked and lightly browned. Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. Cook until tender, then stir in flour to create a roux. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Season generously with thyme, salt, and pepper. The aroma of simmering chicken and aromatic herbs will fill your kitchen, signaling that your filling is ready.

Assemble the pies

Roll out your pastry dough and cut it into rounds that will fit your muffin tin or mini pie molds. Spoon a hearty portion of the filling into each crust, then top with another pastry round or sealed edges. Use a fork to crimp the edges or brush with beaten egg for a glossy finish. The picture-perfect golden top is a key indicator of a perfectly baked mini pie.

Bake or Air Fry

Place the assembled mini pies in your preheated oven or air fryer. Bake at 375°F (190°C) or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until the crust is crispy and golden. The smell of flaky pastry and savory filling will make your mouth water. Let cool slightly before serving, so the filling sets and you avoid burns. These handheld savory pies are best enjoyed warm, with a side of your favorite green salad or roasted vegetables.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Chill your pastry: Refrigerate the dough for at least 15 minutes before rolling out to keep it flaky.
• Avoid overfilling: Keep the filling amount moderate so the pies seal well and don’t leak during baking.
• Use an egg wash: Brushing the tops with beaten egg enhances the golden, shiny appearance.
• Customize fillings: Mix in peas, corn, or even mashed potatoes for variation and added comfort.

7. Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to alter this classic recipe to suit dietary needs or preferences. Swap chicken for cooked turkey or even sautéed portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Use dairy-free cream alternatives or gluten-free pastry if needed. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your filling. These mini chicken pot pies can be tailored to make every dinner special and personalized.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crust is crispy again. If freezing, arrange the uncooked pies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a sealed container. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a fresh-baked feel.

9. FAQ

Can I make chicken pot pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the pies and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. For best results, bake directly from cold, extending baking time slightly.

What’s the best way to keep the crust crispy?

Avoid covering the pies with foil during the last minutes of baking, and consider using an air fryer for extra crispiness. Brushing with egg wash before baking also enhances the crust’s golden, crispy texture.

Can I freeze these mini pies?

Yes, raw or baked pies freeze well. For raw, freeze assembled unbaked pies on a tray then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. Baked leftovers can be reheated efficiently, maintaining their comforting texture.

10. Conclusion

These comforting mini chicken pot pies are a foolproof way to bring warmth and satisfaction to your weeknight dinners. Their delightful combination of flaky pastry and savory filling makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough for customization and perfect for meal prepping. Be sure to try this recipe for a cozy, handheld chicken dinner that everyone will love!

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