There’s something incredibly comforting and nostalgic about a hearty Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe. I absolutely love how this pie boasts two golden, flaky crusts sandwiching a rich, creamy chicken and vegetable filling that’s bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a weekend family dinner, this pot pie feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
What makes this recipe stand out is that perfect balance between a tender, savory filling and the crisp, buttery crust on both the bottom and top. I found that making your own pie crust really elevates the whole dish, but even a good-quality store-bought crust can work in a pinch. Once you get this Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe down, it becomes your go-to comfort food that impresses every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Double Crust Delight: The top and bottom crusts create a perfect crispy, flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Loaded with Comfort: Chicken, peas, carrots, and celery in a thick gravy bring in the warmth and flavor we all crave on cozy nights.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the crust and filling ahead, making dinner prep smoother and less stressful.
- Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this, especially with the golden crust that’s irresistible to every age.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients in this Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe work together to build a creamy, savory filling surrounded by flaky crusts. When you shop, look for fresh veggies and quality chicken to really make the flavors shine.
- Homemade Pie Crust or All Butter Pie Crust: I prefer homemade because it’s flakier and tastier, but store-bought works well too.
- Skinless Boneless Chicken: I use thighs for juiciness but breast meat is great if you want leaner filling.
- Carrots: Sliced thinly for even cooking and sweetness balance.
- Celery: Adds that classic aromatic punch and crunch inside.
- Unsalted Butter: For sautéing veggies and enriching the gravy base.
- Yellow Onion: Just half adds perfect depth without overpowering.
- Garlic: Minced for subtle sharpness and warmth in flavor.
- All-purpose Flour: Helps thicken the gravy so it’s rich and luscious.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
- Dried Thyme Leaves: My secret weapon for earthy, comforting herb notes.
- Chicken Broth/Stock: Reduced sodium so you can control saltiness and keep flavors fresh.
- Half-and-Half: Gives creamy body without heaviness.
- Frozen Peas: Stirred in at the end for pops of sweetness and color.
- Egg Wash: A beaten egg mixed with milk perfect for brushing onto crust for that golden finish.
- Optional Fresh Thyme Sprigs: For garnish that makes it look as good as it tastes.
Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations
While I adore the classic Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe, I like to mix it up sometimes to keep things fresh and suit different dietary needs. Feel free to play with the veggies or protein based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys.
- Vegetable Boost: I often sneak in chopped mushrooms or green beans, which add great texture and an earthy note.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap half-and-half for full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free butter for a comforting pie that’s gentle on sensitive tummies.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour blends for the crust and gravy thickener; I’ve done this with fantastic results!
- Protein Swap: Turkey or cooked ham work wonderfully if you want to change up the meat flavor.
How to Make Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust
I usually make the pie crust the night before to let it chill really well – this helps it roll out smoothly and keeps it flaky once baked. Whether you’re using the homemade or all butter crust, get two crust discs ready and refrigerated for at least two hours. Chilled dough is key to preventing shrinkage and ensuring that perfect crispness in your Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by combining the cubed chicken, sliced carrots, and celery in a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, then drain. This step not only cooks the chicken through but also infuses flavor into the veggies, making the filling rich without being heavy.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until the onions turn translucent and butter starts to brown slightly – this caramelization adds so much flavor! Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, and thyme to create a roux, then slowly add the chicken broth and half-and-half while stirring. Keep whisking and simmer for about 10 minutes until the gravy is thick and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference – I often add a sprinkle more thyme here to deepen the aroma.
Step 4: Assemble the Pot Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). On a floured surface, roll out one chilled pie crust disc to about 12 inches in diameter, then carefully place it in your pie dish. Trim the excess edges. Spoon in the chicken and veggie mix, scatter frozen peas on top, and pour the thick gravy evenly all over. Then roll out the second crust and cover the pie, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork. Don’t forget to cut small slits in the top crust to let steam escape, and brush on your egg wash for that gorgeous golden finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe for about 32–38 minutes until the top crust is beautifully golden. After 20 minutes, cover the edges of your crust with foil or a pie shield to prevent them from burning — I discovered this trick after a few too many browned edges! Once baked, let your pie cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow that thick filling to set properly.
Pro Tips for Making Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
- Chill That Dough: Keeping your pie dough cold makes rolling much easier and prevents it from shrinking during baking.
- Don’t Skimp on the Gravy: I’ve learned that a thick, luscious gravy turns this pot pie from good to great – simmer it longer if needed to thicken perfectly.
- Edge Protection: Cover the edges with foil halfway through baking to avoid burnt crust edges, a simple trick I always use now.
- Let It Rest: Give the pie at least 10 minutes to cool so the filling sets and won’t spill out when you slice.
How to Serve Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Garnishes
I love to add a few fresh thyme sprigs on top just before serving—it adds a lovely aroma and looks so inviting. Sometimes, a light sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of fresh flavor that complements the creamy filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pot pie pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or honey-glazed carrots are also favorites in my house for adding some fresh, seasonal veggies to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday dinners or special occasions, I like to bake individual pot pies using ramekins or small oven-safe bowls—guests love that personal touch! You can also cut the top crust into fun shapes with cookie cutters before baking to jazz it up visually.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. I usually cover it tightly and just reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave for quick meals.
Freezing
I’ve frozen whole assembled pies before baking, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual. The crust and filling hold up surprisingly well after freezing, making this a great make-ahead option for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer warming slices in a 350°F oven wrapped loosely in foil for about 15-20 minutes to keep the crust flaky and the filling warm without drying out. Microwaving works in a pinch but can make the crust a little soggy.
FAQs
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Can I use pre-cooked chicken in the Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken can cut down on prep time. Just make sure to add it to the gravy and vegetable mixture at the end to heat through, so the chicken stays tender without drying out.
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What’s the best way to prevent a soggy bottom crust?
One trick I use is baking the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the filling (blind baking). Another is making sure the filling isn’t too watery by thickening the gravy well. Also, pre-cooking the chicken and veggies helps avoid releasing excess liquid during baking.
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Can I make this Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, and butternut squash, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get a rich, comforting pot pie.
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How do I know when the pie is fully cooked?
The crust should be golden brown all over and the filling bubbling through the steam vents on top. If the edges brown too fast, cover them with foil and continue baking until done.
Final Thoughts
This Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe has become one of my favorite dishes to make when I want both comfort and a little kitchen pride. Its flaky crust and savory filling bring everyone to the table smiling—and I hope you’ll experience that joy too. Once you give this recipe a try, I bet it’ll become your cozy night secret weapon, just like it did for me!
PrintDouble Crust Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
This Double Crust Chicken Pot Pie features a rich, comforting filling of tender chicken, carrots, celery, and peas enveloped in a flaky homemade all-butter pie crust. With a luscious, thickened gravy flavored with fresh thyme and seasonings, this classic American dish is perfect for a hearty family meal. The pie crust is baked golden brown, creating a delectable contrast with the creamy filling inside. Ideal for comforting dinners and great as reheated leftovers.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- Homemade Pie Crust or All Butter Pie Crust (enough for 2 crusts, 1 bottom and 1 top)
Filling
- 1 pound (450g) skinless boneless chicken breast or thighs, cubed
- 1 cup (about 130g) sliced carrots (about 2 carrots)
- 1/2 cup (about 40g) sliced celery
- 1/3 cup (5 Tbsp; 71g) unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup (45g) chopped yellow onion (1/2 of a small onion)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/3 cup (41g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
- 1 and 3/4 cups (420ml) chicken broth/stock (reduced sodium recommended)
- 2/3 cup (160ml) half-and-half
- 1 cup (125g) frozen peas
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk
Optional Garnish
- Sprigs of fresh thyme
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Follow your chosen pie crust recipe through step 5, including chilling the dough for at least 2 hours. The recipe makes two crusts; one for the bottom and one for the top of the pie.
- Cook the chicken and vegetables: In a large pot, combine the cubed chicken, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow to boil for 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- Make the gravy: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions become translucent and the butter lightly browns. Whisk in the flour, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme leaves to create a roux. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and half-and-half, cooking until there are no lumps. Simmer on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to a very thick consistency. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) to prepare for baking.
- Roll out the bottom crust: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled pie dough into a 12-inch diameter circle. Carefully place it into a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan and press gently to fit, trimming any excess dough around the edges.
- Assemble the filling: Spoon the cooked chicken and vegetable mixture into the crust, scatter frozen peas over the top, and pour the thickened gravy evenly over everything.
- Prepare and place the top crust: Roll out the second piece of pie dough similarly and place it over the filled pie. Trim excess dough, then crimp edges with a fork to seal. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the entire top crust and edges with the beaten egg and milk mixture to achieve a golden brown finish.
- Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 32–38 minutes, covering the edges after 20 minutes with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated as needed.
Notes
- Chilling the pie dough for at least 2 hours is crucial for a flaky crust.
- If you prefer, make the pie crust a day in advance to save time.
- Use reduced sodium chicken broth to control the salt content.
- Cover pie edges with foil or a crust shield during baking to prevent burning.
- Leftovers thicken nicely and reheat well, making this an ideal make-ahead meal.
- Adjust thyme seasoning to your taste; fresh thyme can be used as garnish for extra flavor and presentation.