Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

This slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie is a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for those chilly winter nights. The blend of tender chicken and hearty vegetables, all simmered in a rich and savory sauce, is a meal that is sure to please. And the best part? This recipe is made in the slow cooker, which means that you can throw everything in and let it cook while you go about your day. This classic comfort food with a twist is sure to become a new favorite in your rotation.

Photos of Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

All of these ingredients should be readily available at your local supermarket. However, you may not typically have chicken thighs, russet potatoes, or heavy cream on hand. Chicken thighs are chosen for their tenderness and flavor, but can be substituted with chicken breast if preferred. Russet potatoes are best for this recipe because they hold their shape well during slow cooking. Lastly, the heavy cream adds a rich creaminess to the pot pie filling; a dairy-free alternative can be used if needed.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken thighs: Chosen for their tenderness and flavor, these are the star of the dish.

Russet potatoes: They hold their shape well during slow cooking and add a hearty element to the pot pie.

Yellow onion: Adds a depth of flavor to the dish.

Carrot: Brings a sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant color.

Celery stalk: Essential for any pot pie, contributing a slight crunch and fresh flavor.

Frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture.

Chicken stock: The base for our savory sauce.

Flour: Thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor.

Heavy cream: Gives the filling its creamy, indulgent quality.

Frozen peas: Adds sweetness and a pop of green color.

Parsley: Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Biscuits: Served alongside or on top, these add a delightful crunch and make the dish a true pot pie.

One reader, Kathlin Grice says:

This slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie recipe is a game-changer! The chicken comes out so tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked. The creamy sauce is just divine. Plus, the crispy biscuits on top add a delightful crunch. It's comfort food at its finest!

Kathlin Grice

Key Techniques for Perfecting This Recipe

How to brown the chicken: In a cast aluminum slow cooker or a separate pan, brown the chicken on both sides for 3 to 5 minutes on high heat. This will help to seal in the juices and add flavor to the pot pie.

How to make a paste with flour and butter: Use a fork to mash together the flour and butter until it forms a smooth paste. This paste will help to thicken the sauce in the pot pie.

How to serve with biscuits: Serve the slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie with warm, flaky biscuits on the side. The biscuits can be used to scoop up the delicious filling and add a comforting touch to the meal.

How To Make Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie

Grab a bite of this crispy chicken pot pie for dinner! It’s made with slow-cooked chicken and a thick and creamy vegetable soup for a heartier meal.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

Instructions

1. In a cast aluminum slow cooker or a separate pan, brown the chicken on both sides for 3 to 5 minutes on High.

1. Remove the chicken, then add the potatoes, onion, carrot, celery, and corn to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

1. Pour the chicken stock onto the vegetables, then add the chicken thighs to cover the vegetables.

1. Cook on Low for 6 hours or on High for 4 hours.

1. About 15 minutes before the timer is done, remove the chicken.

1. Make a paste out of the flour and butter, using a fork to mash it together. Add the paste, heavy cream, and peas to the vegetable mixture, then stir.

1. Serve with biscuits and parsley, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

- If chicken is not crispy enough right out of the slow cooker, brown it in the oven on broil for a couple of minutes.

- Alternatively, just add the chicken back on top of the cast aluminum slow cooker and pop the whole insert into the oven under the broiler for about 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken skin crisps up.

Nutrition

- Calories: 756.64kcal

- Fat: 51.25g

- Saturated Fat: 20.32g

- Trans Fat: 0.54g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 18.71g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.72g

- Carbohydrates: 35.52g

- Fiber: 5.00g

- Sugar: 5.39g

- Protein: 38.85g

- Cholesterol: 247.61mg

- Sodium: 1070.22mg

- Calcium: 74.18mg

- Potassium: 1050.55mg

- Iron: 3.18mg

- Vitamin A: 373.84µg

- Vitamin C: 31.52mg

Expert Tip for Achieving the Perfect Crispy Crust

When browning the chicken thighs, ensure that your pan or slow cooker is hot before adding the meat. This will help to sear the outside, locking in the juices and adding a depth of flavor to the dish. Also, resist the urge to move the chicken around while it's browning. Let it sit undisturbed for a few minutes to achieve a nice, golden-brown crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Home Cooks

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and chicken the night before, so you can quickly assemble the pot pie in the morning.

Use pre-made biscuits: Save time by using store-bought biscuits instead of making them from scratch.

High heat: Browning the chicken on high heat will help to develop flavor quickly.

Thicken with cornstarch: Use a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken the filling quickly instead of making a roux.

Multi-task: While the pot pie is cooking, use that time to prepare a simple side salad or dessert to complete the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and can be used as a healthier alternative to chicken thighs. They also cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
russet potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweet flavor and a vibrant color to the pot pie. They also provide more fiber and nutrients compared to russet potatoes.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a milder flavor and can be a suitable replacement for yellow onions in this recipe.
carrot - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness to carrots, making them a great substitute in the pot pie filling.
celery stalk - Substitute with fennel bulb: Fennel bulb has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy texture, similar to celery. It can add a unique twist to the pot pie filling.
frozen corn - Substitute with frozen mixed vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables typically include corn, peas, carrots, and green beans, providing a variety of flavors and colors to the pot pie filling.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a vegetarian alternative to chicken stock, adding depth of flavor to the pot pie filling.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent for the filling, providing a gluten-free option for those with dietary restrictions.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the filling.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness to the filling, serving as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream.
frozen peas - Substitute with edamame: Edamame provides a similar pop of color and texture to the pot pie filling, offering a unique twist to the traditional recipe.
biscuits - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry can be used to create a flaky, golden crust for the pot pie, adding a different texture and presentation to the dish.

Serving Suggestions for a Delightful Presentation

Elevate the plating: When presenting the slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and minimalistic design to showcase the dish's rustic charm.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant and colorful elements to the plate to enhance the visual appeal. Consider using vibrant green parsley and golden brown biscuits to create a striking color contrast against the creamy chicken pot pie.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Ensure that the presentation is not overcrowded, allowing the main components of the dish to take center stage.
Emphasize texture: Highlight the contrasting textures of the dish by incorporating crispy elements, such as flaky biscuits or a delicate garnish, to add depth and interest to the presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that every detail is meticulously arranged to demonstrate skill and attention to detail.
Highlight the aroma: Consider incorporating aromatic elements, such as freshly chopped herbs, to add a sensory dimension to the presentation and entice the judges with the delightful aroma of the dish.
Incorporate a modern twist: Infuse a modern touch into the presentation by experimenting with innovative plating techniques or incorporating avant-garde elements to surprise and captivate the judges.
Create a cohesive composition: Strive to create a harmonious and balanced composition on the plate, ensuring that each element complements the others to create a visually stunning presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Dish

Cast aluminum slow cooker: A slow cooker made of cast aluminum is ideal for even heat distribution and long-lasting durability.
Pan: A pan is used for browning the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker, enhancing the flavor and texture of the dish.
Fork: A fork is used to mash together the flour and butter to create a paste for thickening the pot pie filling.
Knife: A knife is essential for chopping the vegetables and potatoes to the desired size for the pot pie filling.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables and chicken for the pot pie.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for stirring the pot pie filling and ensuring that the ingredients are well combined.
Measuring cup: A measuring cup is essential for accurately portioning the chicken stock, heavy cream, and other liquid ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used for combining the flour and butter to create the thickening paste for the pot pie filling.
Biscuit cutter: A biscuit cutter is used to cut out the biscuits for serving with the chicken pot pie.
Oven: An oven is used to bake the biscuits until they are golden brown and flaky, ready to be served with the pot pie.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Leftovers

Allow the chicken pot pie to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the biscuits soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pot pie to an airtight container or cover the slow cooker insert with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, transfer the cooled pot pie filling (without the biscuits) to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to serve the frozen pot pie, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the thawed pot pie filling in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
Prepare fresh biscuits to serve with the reheated pot pie filling, as the texture of the original biscuits may suffer during freezing and reheating.
If you have leftover biscuits, store them separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

How To Reheat Leftovers for Optimal Taste

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chicken pot pie to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a serving of the pot pie in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have a toaster oven, you can reheat smaller portions of the chicken pot pie in it. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place a serving in an oven-safe dish, and heat for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
For a stovetop method, transfer the leftover pot pie to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the mixture seems too thick. Heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes.
If you want to maintain the crispy texture of the biscuits, reheat them separately. Wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Interesting Trivia About Chicken Pot Pie

The slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that can be easily prepared with minimal effort. It's a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a crispy twist. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful pot pie. So, next time you're craving a comforting meal, give this slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie recipe a try!

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Recipe Economical?

This slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as chicken thighs, potatoes, onion, and carrots makes it budget-friendly. The addition of frozen corn and peas also keeps the cost down. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, as it offers a delicious and hearty meal at a reasonable price.

Is This Comfort Food Classic Healthy or Not?

This slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie recipe, while comforting and delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of chicken thighs, which are higher in fat compared to leaner cuts like chicken breast
The addition of butter and heavy cream, which contribute to the dish's high saturated fat content
The inclusion of biscuits, which are often high in calories and carbohydrates

However, the recipe does include some healthy elements, such as the use of vegetables like potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, corn, and peas. These ingredients provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for skinless chicken breast instead of thighs to reduce the overall fat content
Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt
Reduce the amount of butter used in the flour paste or replace it with a healthier option like olive oil
Serve the pot pie with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to increase the nutrient density of the meal
Choose whole-grain biscuits or replace them with a lighter option, such as whole-grain crackers or a small portion of crusty whole-grain bread

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the comforting flavors of a chicken pot pie while reducing the overall calorie, fat, and carbohydrate content, and increasing the dish's nutritional value.

Editor's Opinion: A Comforting and Satisfying Meal

This slow cooker crispy chicken pot pie recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. The use of a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and hearty dish. The addition of crispy biscuits adds a delightful texture to the creamy filling, making each bite a satisfying experience. The combination of tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce is sure to please the whole family. It's a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a comforting pot pie without the hassle of making a traditional pie crust.

Enhance Your Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Roasted Brussel Sprouts: Crispy roasted brussel sprouts with a balsamic glaze and bacon crumbles

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a honey lime dressing and a sprinkle of mint leaves

Similar Recipes to Try for Variety

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and celery in a rich and flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp: These succulent shrimp are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, and herbs, then quickly sautéed to perfection. They make a light and refreshing dish that's perfect for a summer dinner.

Decadent Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in this rich and gooey chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate from the center. It's the ultimate dessert for any chocolate lover and is sure to impress your guests.

Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions for a Complete Meal

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are a perfect appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Indulge in the crispy goodness of these coconut shrimp as a delightful appetizer. The combination of sweet coconut and succulent shrimp will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety, smooth chocolate mousse that will satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more. The rich, decadent flavor of the chocolate combined with the light and airy texture creates a dessert that is simply irresistible.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crispy oat topping in this delightful apple crisp. The combination of sweet and tart apples, along with the crunchy topping, makes for a dessert that is both cozy and delicious.

Why trust this Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic pot pie, featuring crispy chicken and a medley of fresh vegetables slow-cooked to perfection. The combination of browned chicken and tender potatoes creates a rich and savory flavor profile, while the addition of buttery biscuits adds a comforting touch. With carefully selected ingredients and a step-by-step cooking process, this recipe ensures a satisfying and delicious meal. Trust in the expertise of this culinary creation to elevate your dining experience.

Share your thoughts on the Slow Cooker Crispy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, so I recommend using them if possible.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh vegetables may cook faster than frozen ones.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe without a slow cooker. Simply use a large pot or Dutch oven on the stovetop or in the oven, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter alternative such as half-and-half or whole milk. However, keep in mind that the consistency and richness of the dish may vary.

Can I prepare the biscuits from scratch?

Absolutely! You can prepare the biscuits from scratch using your favorite biscuit recipe. Alternatively, you can use store-bought biscuits for convenience.