Skillet Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, a warm and hearty dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all crowned with a flaky golden crust. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to gatherings with loved ones. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the process of creating this culinary masterpiece, from selecting the finest ingredients to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Get ready to embrace the warmth and coziness of this classic dish.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup frozen corn
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crust:

• 1 sheet of refrigerated pie crust or homemade pie crust

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large ovenproof skillet (preferably cast iron), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the frozen peas and corn, and continue to cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Add the diced cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce

5. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour evenly over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything with the flour.
6. Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of whole milk (or half-and-half), stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
7. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Crust

8. Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the pie crust package or your homemade pie crust recipe.
9. Unroll the pie crust and place it over the skillet, covering the chicken pot pie filling. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

10. Cut a few small slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.
11. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

12. Remove the skillet from the oven (be cautious as the handle will be hot).
13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve your Skillet Chicken Pot Pie Casserole directly from the pan.

Tips for Perfect Skillet Chicken Pot Pie Casserole:

• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
• Consistency of Filling: Adjust the thickness of the filling by adding more broth or milk if needed.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or what you have on hand.
• Handle with Care: Remember that the skillet’s handle will be hot when taking it out of the oven, so use oven mitts.

 

Skillet Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. With this ultimate guide, you’re now equipped to create a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Savor the layers of flavors and the flaky crust as you enjoy the heartwarming goodness of this classic comfort food. Enjoy!