Easy Freezer Meals Chicken and Veggie Pot Pies Recipe

Are you looking for a simple meal that’s packed with flavor? You’ve come to the right place! This Easy Freezer Meals Chicken and Veggie Pot Pies Recipe will help you create delicious, comforting pies in no time. With just a few key ingredients and easy steps, you can fill your freezer with tasty dishes. Let’s dive into the world of pot pies that make busy weeknights a breeze!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Chicken and Veggie Pot Pies

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, and green beans)

- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and diced (or use frozen diced potatoes)

- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 2 cups chicken broth

- 1/2 cup milk

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 2 cups pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

You can add a few extra ingredients to make your pot pies even tastier. Consider adding:

- 1 teaspoon of paprika for a smoky flavor

- 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme

- A splash of white wine for depth

- 1/2 cup of shredded cheese for creaminess

Notes on Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out some ingredients for a unique twist. Here are some ideas:

- Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a holiday dish.

- Swap frozen vegetables with fresh ones if you have them. Just make sure to cook them a bit longer.

- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.

- If you don't have milk, use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk.

These substitutions keep the recipe flexible and fun. You can easily customize it to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Filling

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes. Once the onion is clear, add diced potatoes. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they are a bit soft. Next, sprinkle the flour over the mix and stir well. Let it cook for one minute. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk. Keep stirring until the mix thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Now, add the shredded chicken and frozen mixed veggies. Mix in garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool completely.

Assembling the Pot Pies

Roll out the pie crust on a floured surface. Cut out circles that fit your pie pans or ramekins. Once your filling has cooled, fill each pie shell with the chicken and veggie mix. Cover with a top layer of pie crust. Crimp the edges to seal them well. Don't forget to cut a small slit on top of each pie for steam to escape! Brush the tops with beaten egg for a nice, golden finish.

Baking and Serving Tips

Place your pot pies on a baking sheet. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown crust as your cue to take them out. Once baked, let them sit for a few minutes before serving. If you plan to freeze them, let the pies cool completely. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before putting them in the freezer.

For a nice touch, serve the pot pies in their ramekins. You can garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for color. A small side salad of mixed greens pairs well with the pies, adding a fresh crunch to your meal.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chicken and Veggie Filling

For the best chicken and veggie filling, use fresh or high-quality frozen ingredients. I prefer cooked chicken that I shred myself. It adds great flavor. Mix in frozen veggies like peas, carrots, corn, and green beans. You can also add potatoes to make it hearty. Sauté onions in olive oil until soft. This adds sweetness to the mix. Sprinkle flour for a thick filling. Gradually pour in chicken broth and milk for creaminess. Season with garlic powder and dried thyme. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Let the filling cool before using it.

Ensuring a Flaky Pie Crust

A flaky pie crust makes all the difference. If you buy store-bought, choose a high-quality brand. For homemade, keep your butter cold. Use cold water when mixing the dough. Roll it out on a floured surface. Make sure the crust is not too thick. A thin crust will bake evenly. Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives a beautiful golden color. Cut slits on top of the pie to let steam escape. This keeps the crust from getting soggy.

Best Practices for Freezing and Reheating

Freezing pot pies is a great way to save time. Once cooled, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap. Then wrap it in foil for extra protection. Label each pie with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, there's no need to thaw. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake frozen pies for 30-35 minutes. Check for a golden crust and bubbly filling. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade meal!

Variations

Vegetarian Option with Tofu or Beans

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian. Replace the cooked chicken with tofu or beans. Tofu adds a nice texture, while beans give protein. Use 1 cup of cubed firm tofu or 1 can of drained beans. Sauté the tofu with the onions for a golden crust. If you choose beans, mix them in with the vegetables. This option is tasty and heart-healthy.

Different Vegetable Mixes for Variety

Feel free to switch up the vegetable mix. You can use fresh or frozen veggies. Try broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini. Each mix brings a new taste. Just make sure to chop the fresh veggies small. This way, they cook well with the filling. You can even add spinach for some greens. Let your creativity shine with these changes.

Using Different Types of Sauces

Sauces can change the flavor of your pot pies. Use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup instead of broth. This adds a rich taste and creaminess. You can also mix in some soy sauce or hot sauce for a kick. Just adjust the salt, so it doesn't get too salty. Experiment with flavors to find what you love best.

Storage Info

How to Properly Freeze Pot Pies

Freezing pot pies is simple. First, let the pot pies cool completely after baking. This step prevents soggy crusts. Next, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap. Then, add a layer of aluminum foil. This extra layer keeps out freezer air and moisture. Place the wrapped pies in the freezer. Store them flat to maintain their shape.

Best Freezer Containers to Use

For freezing pot pies, use sturdy containers. I recommend using glass or BPA-free plastic containers. Make sure they have airtight lids. You can also use freezer-safe aluminum pans if you prefer. They are great for easy storage and serving. Just remember to cover them well with foil.

How Long Do Frozen Pot Pies Last?

Frozen pot pies last for about three months in the freezer. After that, they may lose flavor and texture. Be sure to label each pie with the date. This way, you know when to use them. For best taste, enjoy them sooner rather than later.

FAQs

Can I make these pot pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these pot pies ahead of time. Prepare the filling and assemble the pies. Then, instead of baking, wrap them tightly and freeze. This way, you have a quick meal ready when you need it. To save time, you can also make the filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you're ready to fill the crusts.

How do I reheat frozen chicken pot pies?

To reheat frozen chicken pot pies, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the pies from the freezer and unwrap them. Place the pot pies on a baking sheet. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. Check for a golden crust and ensure the filling is hot. You might cover them with foil to prevent over-browning.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

If you need a substitute for chicken broth, use vegetable broth or water. You can also use homemade stock if you have it. For extra flavor, add herbs or spices to the water. Just remember to taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning for best results.

This article shared how to make tasty chicken and veggie pot pies. We explored main and optional ingredients, plus substitutions to fit your needs. You learned step-by-step instructions for prepping, assembling, and baking.

I provided tips to improve your filling, crust, and storage. Lastly, I offered variations for vegetarians and different vegetables. Making delicious pot pies can be simple and fun. Enjoy your cooking, and share your pies with friends and family!