There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a homemade chicken pot pie wafting through the kitchen. It’s a dish that wraps you in a warm culinary hug, combining flaky pie crust with a creamy, savory filling. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the beloved chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup, exploring its roots, benefits, and variations. You’ll learn how cream of chicken soup elevates this recipe, discover exciting ways to personalize it, and master a step-by-step recipe that’s perfect for every occasion. Along the way, we’ll share tips for storage, reheating, and creative uses for leftovers. Let’s get started on this flavorful journey!
What Is Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup?
What Makes Chicken Pot Pie a Comfort Food Classic?
Chicken pot pie has been a household staple for generations, a symbol of home-cooked love served warm and hearty. Its flaky crust encases a rich, creamy filling brimming with chicken, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings. A hallmark of American comfort food, this dish combines the best of textures—soft, tender insides and a crispy, golden crust.
What truly sets it apart is its versatility. It’s a dish that can be as simple or elaborate as you want, adapting to family preferences and seasonal ingredients.
How Cream of Chicken Soup Elevates the Recipe
When you incorporate cream of chicken soup into the mix, the dish takes on a new level of convenience and flavor. The soup’s silky, velvety consistency enhances the pie’s creamy filling, while its seasoning balances the flavors beautifully. Using a pre-made soup base means you spend less time prepping and more time enjoying the dish with loved ones.
The soup acts as a rich binding agent, perfectly melding the chicken and vegetables into a cohesive, mouthwatering filling. For busy families, it’s an easy shortcut to achieving restaurant-quality results.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Across Regions
Chicken pot pie recipes vary widely depending on where you are. In the U.S., a double-crust version is common, with both a top and bottom pastry crust. Meanwhile, some regions favor puff pastry for its lighter texture, while others skip the crust altogether for a crustless chicken pot pie.
There are also twists on traditional recipes, like those using frozen vegetables, puff pastry toppings, or even Bisquick as a quick alternative to pie crust. Each variation carries its unique charm, ensuring there’s a version of this classic dish to suit everyone’s tastes.
Benefits of Using Cream of Chicken Soup
The Convenience of Cream of Chicken Soup
One of the biggest advantages of using cream of chicken soup in your chicken pot pie recipe is its convenience. With a can of this pantry staple, you can skip the time-consuming step of making a roux or cream sauce from scratch. It’s a lifesaver, especially on busy weeknights when you crave a homemade meal but lack the time for elaborate prep work.
Additionally, the consistent texture and seasoning of cream of chicken soup ensure reliable results every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this ingredient guarantees a creamy, savory filling that satisfies every bite.
Flavor Profile: Richness and Creaminess
The velvety consistency of cream of chicken soup elevates the taste of chicken pot pie, adding depth and richness to the filling. It blends beautifully with vegetables and chicken, creating a flavor-packed bite every time. The subtle seasoning in the soup also enhances the dish, eliminating the need to overdo spices.
For those who enjoy a slightly heartier filling, you can pair cream of chicken soup with ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, or herbs like thyme and parsley to add layers of flavor.
How It Simplifies Cooking for Beginners
Cooking shouldn’t feel like a chore, and this ingredient makes it approachable for everyone. From college students to busy parents, anyone can create a comforting chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Plus, using pre-made soup reduces the margin for error, making it perfect for beginners learning their way around the kitchen.
Popular Variations of Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup
Old-Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup
This classic variation brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen. Featuring a flaky, buttery crust and a rich filling made with cream of chicken soup, it’s a timeless recipe. This version often includes diced potatoes and carrots for an extra hearty meal.
Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Soup Chicken Pot Pie
The Campbell’s brand is synonymous with convenience cooking. Their cream of chicken soup makes preparing chicken pot pie even easier. Many home cooks swear by their recipe for its simplicity and reliable results.
Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup
For those looking for a quick dinner solution, this version uses frozen vegetables and store-bought pie crust. It’s perfect for weeknights when time is short but cravings for comfort food are high.
Chicken Pot Pie with Frozen Vegetables
A budget-friendly option that’s as tasty as it is simple! Frozen vegetables like peas, carrots, and green beans add both nutrition and convenience. Just toss them into your chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup for a no-fuss filling.
Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie
If you prefer a lighter, flakier topping, try replacing the traditional pie crust with puff pastry. It bakes to golden perfection and adds a delicate crunch to every bite.
Crustless Chicken Pot Pie
For those cutting carbs or looking for a gluten-free option, this variation skips the crust entirely. Instead, the creamy filling stands alone, often served over mashed potatoes or rice.
Bisquick Chicken Pot Pie
Bisquick mix simplifies the process even further. This twist involves mixing the dough and spreading it on top of the filling for a quick and delicious crust alternative.
Chicken and Mushroom Pie with Condensed Soup
Adding mushrooms to the filling gives it an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with cream of chicken soup. The mushrooms absorb the creamy sauce, making each bite a flavorful delight.
Explore more dinner recipes like this at Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie with Cream of Chicken Soup
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
This chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup recipe is quick, easy, and ideal for weeknight dinners or lazy weekends. Here’s how long you’ll need:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
This recipe serves 6 people and can be customized to fit your family’s preferences.
Detailed List of Ingredients
To make this comforting dish, you’ll need the following:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz each)
- ½ cup chicken broth (for added creaminess)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen, such as peas, carrots, and green beans)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing the crust)
Expanded Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, prepare your filling and pie crusts.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, diced onion, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Roll out one pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently to fit the bottom and sides.
- Pour the filling into the crust, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula.
- Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling. Pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal. Use a knife to cut a few small slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
4. Bake the Pie
Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any overflow, then bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling.
5. Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set, ensuring neat, delicious slices every time.
Pro Tip: For more flavorful results, brush the top crust with melted butter or an egg wash before baking.
How to Store, Reheat, and Use Leftovers
How to Store Leftover Chicken Pot Pie
Storing leftovers is simple and ensures you can enjoy this chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup later. Allow the pie to cool completely before storing it to maintain the crust’s texture. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
How to Reheat Chicken Pot Pie
Reheating the pot pie without losing its flaky crust and creamy filling can be done in a few ways:
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pot pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. Heat for 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Microwave Method: For a quicker option, slice a portion and heat it in the microwave for 2–3 minutes. While the crust may lose some crispness, the filling will remain delicious.
Recipes to Use Leftover Chicken Pot Pie
Don’t let leftovers go to waste! Here are a few creative ways to repurpose them:
- Savory Breakfast Pastries: Scoop out the filling and use it as a topping for biscuits or toast.
- Casserole Base: Add extra vegetables and bake the filling with a breadcrumb topping for a simple casserole.
- Soup Starter: Thin the filling with chicken broth to create a creamy, hearty soup.
How Long Does Chicken Pot Pie Last in the Fridge?
Stored properly, chicken pot pie can last up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Place the fully cooked pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Frozen pot pie can last up to 3 months.
For more tips on storing and reheating meals, check out Chicken Bone Broth Recipe.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie
How to Avoid a Soggy Bottom Crust
A common challenge when making chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is preventing a soggy crust. Thankfully, a few simple tips can help keep your pie crust crisp and golden:
- Pre-Bake the Bottom Crust: Before adding the filling, bake the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes. This creates a barrier that prevents it from absorbing too much moisture.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Applying a thin layer of egg wash (beaten egg) on the crust before baking helps seal it and keeps it sturdy.
- Drain Excess Liquid: If your filling appears watery, simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the crust.
Choosing the Right Pie Crust: Store-Bought vs. Homemade
Both store-bought and homemade crusts work well for chicken pot pie. Here’s how to decide:
- Store-Bought Crusts: These are ideal for busy cooks. They’re pre-made, easy to handle, and deliver consistent results. Look for all-butter varieties for the best flavor.
- Homemade Crusts: If you have extra time, making your own crust can take your pot pie to the next level. A buttery, flaky crust made from scratch pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
Adding a Creative Twist: Herbs, Cheeses, and Spices
Elevate your chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup by experimenting with flavors:
- Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley add a bright, aromatic touch.
- Cheeses: A sprinkle of cheddar or Parmesan inside the filling can add richness.
- Spices: A dash of paprika or nutmeg can deepen the flavor profile and provide a subtle warmth.
Adding these elements ensures your pot pie stands out as a personalized dish filled with vibrant flavors.
FAQs
What Is the Difference Between Condensed Chicken Soup and Cream of Chicken Soup?
While both types of soup come in cans and are often used interchangeably, there are key differences:
- Condensed Chicken Soup: This version is concentrated and needs to be diluted with water or milk before use.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Already creamy and seasoned, this soup is ready to use as a base in dishes like chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup.
How to Keep the Bottom Crust of a Chicken Pot Pie from Getting Soggy?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions, and the answer lies in a few simple steps:
- Use a Hot Oven: Starting the pie in a hot oven (375°F or higher) ensures the crust crisps up quickly.
- Pre-Cook Ingredients: Watery vegetables or raw chicken can release excess moisture. Cooking these before assembling the pie reduces the chance of a soggy bottom.
Can You Eat Cream of Chicken Soup As Is?
Yes, cream of chicken soup is fully cooked and safe to eat straight from the can. However, most people prefer to use it as a base for recipes because of its concentrated flavor and thick consistency. Adding water or milk can turn it into a comforting soup on its own.
How Do You Thicken Chicken Pot Pie?
If the filling for your chicken pot pie with cream of chicken soup is too runny, there are a few easy ways to thicken it:
- Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the filling and simmer until thickened.
- Flour: Sprinkle a tablespoon of flour into the filling while cooking, stirring well to avoid lumps.
- Reduce the Filling: Cook the filling on the stovetop for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
These methods ensure a perfectly thick and creamy filling that holds its shape inside the pie crust.