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Easy mini chicken pot pies bring all the cozy flavors of a classic chicken pot pie into fun hand-held portions. With a golden, flaky crust and a creamy chicken and vegetable filling, these bite-sized pies are a hit for family dinners, game nights, or even quick snacks. The method is simple and forgiving—no need for complicated skills or equipment, just reliable comfort food that everyone is excited to eat fresh from the oven.
The first time I brought a tray of these out for a Sunday dinner, I had to make a second batch by request. Now they are on regular rotation for potlucks and cozy weekends.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: Tender bites are best with rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken which cuts prep time
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Peas, carrots, and corn for color and nutrition with no chopping needed
- Onion: Fresh onion delivers a savory base and gentle sweetness
- Butter: Creates a rich foundation for the roux and flavor throughout
- All purpose flour: Thickens the creamy filling so it sets up just right in the crust
- Chicken broth: Brings a savory punch, and low sodium lets you fine tune the seasoning
- Milk: Adds creaminess and smooths out the sauce; whole milk is extra rich but two percent works fine
- Salt and black pepper: For balance and depth, opt for fresh cracked if available
- Garlic powder: Optional for a subtle warm background note
- Refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry: Choose one that looks golden in the fridge section and avoid those with cracks
- Egg: Brushed on top for a deep shiny finish straight from the oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat then add diced onion and cook for three minutes until onions are soft and almost see through. Stir gently and do not let them brown as this keeps the flavor mellow and sweet.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle flour evenly over the onions and stir for about a minute so it absorbs the butter and forms a thick smooth paste. It should not brown.
- Build the Sauce:
- Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to break up any lumps followed by the milk. Cook this over medium heat whisking constantly. After about three to four minutes the sauce will thicken to a silky texture.
- Finish the Filling:
- Stir in cooked chicken and mixed vegetables along with salt pepper and garlic powder if using. Continue folding until everything is coated in the sauce. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped.
- Prepare the Crust:
- On a lightly floured counter roll out the pie crust and cut circles big enough to line your muffin tin with a little overhang. Gently press a piece into each cup so it comes up the sides.
- Fill and Top:
- Spoon generous portions of the warm chicken mixture into the crusts. Lay a smaller circle of dough on top press to seal the edges to the base and pinch lightly so it sticks together. Make a small cut in the top for steam to escape.
- Egg Wash and Bake:
- Brush tops with beaten egg for a glossy golden look. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty to twenty five minutes until the pies are deep golden and the crust is crisp.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let pies cool in the pan five minutes to set the crust then carefully loosen the edges before removing so the base stays intact and flaky.
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The pie crust here is my family’s favorite part and chilling the muffin tin first keeps the crust on the flakiest side. My daughter loves helping pinch the tops shut which always reminds me that appearance is never as important as happy memories around the table.
Storage Tips
Store leftover pot pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For crisp results reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes. To freeze cool pies completely arrange on a tray to freeze individually then transfer them to a zip top bag so you can thaw as many as you like when you need them.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of frozen mixed vegetables fresh chopped carrots peas and corn also work. Shredded turkey or canned white beans make a nice alternative if you need a change from chicken. Puff pastry dough gives an ultra flaky top if you want to try something new.
Serving Suggestions
Serve mini pot pies warm with a crisp green salad or a bowl of soup for a cozy cold weather meal. They are easy to tuck into lunchboxes or share as a snack. For extra flair sprinkle with chopped parsley or a few fresh thyme leaves before serving.
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Cultural Context
Chicken pot pie started as a way to make the most of pantry staples and leftovers. Mini versions like these keep the resourceful tradition alive while making it easier to share and enjoy in today’s busy homes.
These tricks save me time and stress when I am juggling a busy night and still want a meal that brings my family together around the table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best for these pies?
Cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken offers great flavor and texture for this dish.
- → Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?
Yes, both refrigerated pie crust and puff pastry work well. Puff pastry gives a lighter, flakier finish.
- → How do I avoid soggy bottom crusts?
Make sure the filling is thickened before assembling and avoid overfilling the muffin cups to keep the crust crisp.
- → Can I make these pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate them before baking, or bake and reheat them for convenience later.
- → What vegetables can I use in the filling?
Frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, but fresh chopped carrots, peas, and corn also work nicely.
- → How do I get a golden crust?
Brush the tops with egg wash before baking to ensure a shiny, golden finish.