15 Chicken Pot Pie Recipe Southern Food Unleash Your Inner Chef!

The History of Chicken Pot Pie

The origins of chicken pot pie can be traced back to medieval Europe, where savory pies were a popular way to use up leftover meats and vegetables. As immigrants from Europe settled in the Southern United States, they brought their love of pies with them. Over time, the traditional meat and vegetable pie evolved into the beloved chicken pot pie we know today.

During the Great Depression, chicken pot pie became a staple in Southern households due to its affordability and ability to feed a large family. It also gained popularity during World War II when meat was rationed and chicken was more readily available.

The Key Ingredients

While there are endless variations of chicken pot pie, there are a few key ingredients that are essential to this classic dish. First and foremost, you'll need chicken, which can be either shredded or cubed. You'll also need a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and potatoes. And of course, no chicken pot pie is complete without a flaky crust.

Southern Twists on the Classic Recipe

While the traditional chicken pot pie recipe calls for a top and bottom crust, you can mix it up by using a biscuit topping instead. Or, for a more indulgent version, try adding a layer of mac and cheese on top of the chicken and vegetables before adding the crust.

Another Southern twist on the classic recipe is to use spices like cajun or creole seasoning to add a little kick to the filling. And for a truly indulgent dish, swap out the chicken for shrimp and add some crumbled bacon to the mix.

The Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Now that you know a bit about the history and variations of chicken pot pie, it's time to try your hand at making one yourself. Here's a simple and delicious recipe that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1/2 cup diced potatoes
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until coated.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
6. Add the chicken, frozen vegetables, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
8. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
9. Place the top crust over the filling and seal the edges.
10. Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
11. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
12. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

There you have it - a delicious and easy-to-make chicken pot pie that will satisfy your Southern food cravings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy a taste of the South with this chicken pot pie recipe.