There’s nothing quite like the warmth of homemade comfort food, especially when it comes in a delightful, flaky package! The first time I took a bite of a Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pie, I was completely captivated. It was a chilly evening, and the cozy aroma of savory chicken, herbs, and vegetables wafted through the kitchen, quickly wrapping me in a blanket of nostalgia.
These hand pies are not just a culinary treat; they are incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or simply craving a delicious, homemade meal that breaks the fast-food cycle, these little gems deliver on flavor and convenience. With each flaky bite, you’ll find tender chicken and a medley of vegetables enveloped in buttery puff pastry—comfort food at its finest!
So roll up your sleeves and join me as we whip up these scrumptious Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Trust me, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen in no time!
Why love Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies?
Flavorful filling: Each hand pie boasts a savory blend of chicken, veggies, and herbs wrapped in golden pastry.
Quick prep: In just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these delightful treats ready to go!
Versatile delight: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy movie nights with friends.
Time-saving option: Make them in bulk and freeze for busy weeknights when you need comfort food fast.
Fun to share: The portable size makes these hand pies ideal for grabbing on the go.
Try pairing them with a fresh salad for a complete meal—your taste buds will thank you!
Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies Ingredients
For the Filling
• Butter – adds richness and helps sauté the veggies to perfection.
• Onion – serves as a foundational flavor, bringing sweetness to the filling.
• Garlic – enhances the savory notes and infuses the mixture with aromatic goodness.
• Carrot – provides a natural sweetness and vibrant color to each bite.
• Celery – adds crunch and a refreshing depth of flavor.
• Frozen peas – make it easy to incorporate this sweet, tender vegetable anytime you like.
• Minced thyme – imparts a fragrant earthiness that complements the chicken beautifully.
• All-purpose flour – thickens the filling for a hearty texture.
• Chicken stock – elevates the flavor—use homemade for the best results!
• Milk – adds creaminess and richness to the filling.
• Cooked and shredded chicken breast – the star ingredient of our Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies, making them wholesome and filling.
• Salt – to taste, and enhances the flavor profile.
• Black pepper – adds a touch of heat and flavor depth.
For the Crust
• Puff pastry sheets – create the flaky, buttery outer layer that wraps the delicious filling.
• Egg – for an egg wash, giving the hand pies a beautiful golden color.
Ready to dive in? With these Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a comforting meal that’s sure to bring smiles to the table!
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
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Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant. This will be the base for your savory filling, creating a rich flavor.
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Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
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Season with salt, pepper, and minced thyme, ensuring that every bite will burst with flavor. Mix well, letting the herbs release their beautiful aroma.
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Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes. This will create a roux that thickens our filling perfectly.
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Combine the peas, chicken stock, and milk into the mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Look for a smooth texture that coats the back of a spoon.
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Fold in the shredded chicken, mixing until it’s well incorporated. Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings if necessary before allowing it to cool down.
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Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
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Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut them into 8 equal rectangles, ensuring they’re ready to hold all that delicious filling.
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Spoon 2 tablespoons of the chicken pot pie filling into the center of each rectangle. Place another rectangle on top and seal the edges with a fork to lock in the goodness.
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Beat the egg for an egg wash and brush it over the top of the hand pies. This will give them a golden, beautiful finish as they bake.
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Bake for 20-22 minutes until they are golden brown and puffed up. The smell will be irresistible as they cook in the oven!
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Cool the hand pies on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help them set and prevent burns.
Optional: Serve with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance; simply let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. The puff pastry can also be cut into rectangles and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just assemble the hand pies, brush with egg wash, and bake from chilled; there’s no need to thaw. This way, you get to savor homemade comfort food without the last-minute rush, delivering nothing less than delicious results with minimal effort!
Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize your Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies with these fun twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of hearty vegetables for a delightful, meatless hand pie. The earthy flavors will still give you that comfort feel!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for those who love an extra heat in every bite. It brings a whole new layer of flavor!
- Herb Variation: Try using fresh rosemary or oregano instead of thyme to infuse your filling with a different herbal aroma for a unique taste. Each herb has its own character that can change the vibe of the dish!
- Sweet Twist: For a touch of sweetness, add some corn or diced sweet potatoes to the filling—perfect for balancing out the savory flavors. It’ll surprise your palate in the best way!
- Loaded Filling: Toss in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or gouda, for a creamy, melty surprise inside each hand pie. Cheese lovers will never want to go back!
- Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat puff pastry for a more wholesome version of these hand pies, adding fiber without compromising on taste. It’s a simple switch that can pack more nutrients!
- Mini Treats: Create mini hand pies using smaller pastry rectangles for bite-sized snacks or appetizers that are perfect for parties. They’ll be gone before you know it!
What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies?
Looking to create a memorable meal that pairs perfectly with these flaky delights?
- Simple Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brings balance and a refreshing crunch alongside the savory hand pies.
- Garlic Bread: Golden, toasted garlic bread adds a comforting, buttery touch that harmonizes beautifully with the rich filling. Perfect for dunking!
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender broccoli provides a vibrant color and an earthy flavor to your plate. Plus, its slight bitterness contrasts nicely with the pie’s buttery richness.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries introduce a delightful sweetness and soft texture, adding a fun twist to your meal. Kids will love them!
- Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy tang of coleslaw complements the savory filling and adds a refreshing crunch, making every bite enjoyable.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with fresh herbs rounds out the meal, soaking up the flavors of the filling and providing a light, fluffy side dish.
- Cider or White Wine: A glass of chilled apple cider or a crisp white wine elevates the dining experience, complementing the savory notes beautifully.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies; the gooey chocolate pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of the meal.
These pairings will surely elevate your Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies, creating an inviting and delicious dining experience for all!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
Room Temperature: Allow the hand pies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: For best results, bake from frozen at 200°C (400°F) for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy. Enjoy your Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies just like fresh!
Expert Tips for Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies
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Choose Quality Pastry: Use high-quality puff pastry; it makes all the difference in achieving that flaky texture.
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Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the hand pies. Too much filling can cause them to burst while baking.
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Cool Before Sealing: Let the filling cool before sealing them in the pastry. Warm filling can make the dough too sticky.
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Egg Wash Secrets: For an extra golden and shiny finish, make sure to apply the egg wash evenly before baking.
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Freeze for Later: These Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies freeze wonderfully! Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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Mix and Match Veggies: Feel free to swap in other veggies based on what you have on hand. Just keep the balance to maintain flavor!
Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for the filling?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh vegetables, look for vibrant colors without any dark spots or signs of wilting. For instance, onions should be firm with dry, papery skin, carrots should be crunchy and bright, and celery should be crisp and not limp. Fresh garlic should be plump and firm without any sprouting. Your filling will taste much better with high-quality ingredients!
How should I store leftover Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies?
Very simply! Allow the hand pies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through. This keeps that delightful flaky texture intact!
Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies? If so, how?
Absolutely, freezing is a fantastic option! Wrap each hand pie tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake them straight from the freezer at 200°C (400°F) for about 25-30 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption. Easy peasy!
What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If you find your filling is too watery, don’t worry! Simply return it to the stove and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens. You can also add an extra tablespoon of flour mixed with a bit of water to create a slurry and incorporate it into the filling. This will help thicken it up nicely!
Are Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies suitable for people with allergies?
It’s important to be careful! This recipe contains common allergens like butter (dairy), flour (gluten), and egg, which might not be suitable for those with allergies or sensitivities. You can modify the recipe using gluten-free puff pastry, plant-based butter, and a dairy-free milk alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions. Always double-check labels to ensure the ingredients you choose are safe for your needs!
Savory Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies for Cozy Home Cooking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and minced thyme, and mix well.
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes.
- Combine peas, chicken stock, and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and let cool.
- Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut into 8 equal rectangles.
- Spoon 2 tablespoons of filling into the center of each rectangle, place another rectangle on top and seal edges.
- Beat the egg and brush it over the top of the hand pies.
- Bake for 20-22 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving.