Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, homemade chicken pot pie. The flaky crust, creamy filling, and hearty chunks of chicken and vegetables come together to create a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie combines the classic flavors of a traditional pot pie with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it a perfect dish for busy families and anyone seeking a delicious, hearty meal without all the fuss. In this article, we’ll dive into why this recipe is a must-try, the essential ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and even some tips to ensure your pot pie turns out perfectly every time.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

This easy slow cooker chicken pot pie is not just another dinner option; it’s a lifesaver in the kitchen! Here are a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes, allowing you to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
Perfect for Beginners: Even if you’re new to cooking, this straightforward recipe eliminates the guesswork, with clear steps and minimal techniques needed.
Ideal for the Whole Family: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and a flaky crust appeals to both kids and adults, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
Economical: Using shredded rotisserie chicken and frozen vegetables makes this meal budget-friendly, while still being comforting and satisfying.
Flexible and Customizable: With the basics down, you can easily tweak the recipe to fit your taste preferences, including different proteins or vegetables.

The Necessary Ingredients

To whip up this amazing Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Cooked Chicken: While shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, you can also use leftover chicken or cook chicken breast specifically for this dish. Just make sure it’s cooked through before adding it to the slow cooker.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: If you prefer fresh vegetables, that’s fine too! Just chop them into small pieces and increase the cooking time slightly to ensure they are tender by the end of the cooking process.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you want a healthier option, look for low-sodium or organic versions, or you can even make your own homemade cream soup for more control over the ingredients!

How to Prepare the Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie Step by Step

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a delicious chicken pot pie:

Combine the Ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine the shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Pro Tip: If you want more flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. It can enhance the depth of flavor!
Prepare the First Pie Crust: Roll out one pie crust and carefully place it at the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring it fits snugly within the edges.
- Pro Tip: You can use a little cooking spray to coat the slow cooker base lightly before adding the crust to prevent sticking.
Add the Chicken Mixture: Pour the chicken mixture over the pie crust in the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
- Pro Tip: Use a spatula to gently pack the filling down, so it holds its shape under the second pie crust.
Cover with the Second Pie Crust: Carefully cover the filling with the second pie crust, sealing the edges by crimping them together.
- Pro Tip: To create a golden brown topping, use a light brush of melted butter or egg wash on top of the crust before cooking.
Cook to Perfection: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Pro Tip: If cooking on high, check for doneness a bit earlier to avoid overcooking, as slow cooker times can vary.
Serve and Enjoy: Once the cooking is done, ladle out portions into bowls, and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade chicken pot pie!
- Pro Tip: Pair your pot pie with a simple side salad for a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Perfect Pairings

Drinks: A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the creamy filling beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Side Dishes: A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette or steamed green beans adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pie.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight as it requires minimal prep time, allowing for quality family time while it cooks.
Special Occasion Meal: Whether it’s a cozy stay-at-home date night or a holiday gathering, this pot pie is hearty and satisfying enough to impress your guests.

Serving Tips

Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a fun, personal touch.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie fresh for the next day, consider the following storage and reheating strategies:

Refrigerated

Duration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Container Type: Glass containers are great for storing and reheating, as they can go straight from the refrigerator to the oven.

Freezed

Packaging: If you want to freeze it, allow the pie to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Best Method: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. Covering the pie with aluminum foil can help prevent over-browning.

Guaranteed Success Tips

To ensure your chicken pot pie turns out delightful every time, keep these golden rules in mind:

Don’t Overfill the Slow Cooker: Leave some room for the filling to expand and for the crust to rise.
Seal the Crusts Properly: Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent leaks during cooking.
Check Your Slow Cooker’s Temperature: Every slow cooker cooks differently; consider testing with a trial run to know how yours performs best.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up a little? Here are three fun variations to try:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for a kick of heat.
For a Vegan Version: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and replace the cream of chicken soup with a vegan cream soup or a homemade cashew cream.
For a Cheesy Twist: Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese with the chicken filling to make it extra luscious and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Yes! Just chop them into small pieces and adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re tender by the time the pot pie is done.

Q: How do I know when the pot pie is done?
A: The pot pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. You can check the temperature in the middle to be sure it’s heated through.

Q: What is the best way to shred the chicken?
A: Using two forks to shred the chicken is effective, or you can use a hand mixer on low speed for quicker results.

Q: Can I make this in advance?
A: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply assemble the pie the next day when you’re ready to cook it.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pie crusts and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.

Q: Is there a way to thicken the filling?
A: If you prefer a thicker filling, you can mix an extra tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of chicken broth and stir it into the mixture during the last hour of cooking.

Q: How can I serve leftovers creatively?
A: Try serving leftover filling over rice or pasta for a quick lunch or dinner option.

With this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie recipe, you’ll not only be able to whip up a comforting meal in no time, but you’ll also impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!