Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet portable delight, these Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies hit every note perfectly. Imagine tender shredded chicken nestled in a creamy, herb-scented filling wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry pockets—each bite offering that nostalgic warmth of a classic pot pie but with the fun and convenience of a handheld treat. These hand pies are not only scrumptiously satisfying but are also great for sharing, making them an instant favorite at any gathering or a cozy solo indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these hand pies are beautifully simple but each plays an essential role in creating the rich, comforting flavors and inviting textures that make this dish so irresistible. From fresh veggies adding vibrant color and crunch to herbs that infuse the filling with aromatic depth, every element contributes to the perfect balance of taste and texture.

• Butter: Provides a rich base and helps soften the vegetables during sautéing for maximum flavor extraction.
• Onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and enhances the savory profile when cooked down.
• Garlic, minced: Brings a wonderful fragrant lift that pairs beautifully with the thyme and chicken.
• Carrot, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and tender texture.
• Celery, diced: Introduces a fresh, slightly crispy note to balance the creamy filling.
• Frozen peas: Burst of color and a mildly sweet pop that contrasts the creamy sauce.
• Minced thyme: Earthy and aromatic herb that adds complexity to the filling.
• All-purpose flour: The thickening agent to achieve that perfectly creamy, spoonable filling.
• Chicken stock: Deepens the flavor foundation with savory richness.
• Milk: Lightens the sauce while keeping it smooth and luscious.
• Cooked and shredded chicken breast: The star protein delivering tender, savory bites in every hand pie.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate and balance the flavors.
• Puff pastry sheets: Create the flaky, buttery exterior that seals in the delicious filling.
• Egg, beaten: Used for brushing to give the pies that irresistible golden shine and crisp finish.

How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. This first step is crucial as the butter carries flavor and softens the vegetables. Add minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, then toss in diced onion, carrots, and celery. Let them sauté gently for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re tender and their flavors start to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Season and Thicken

Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and thyme to infuse the mixture with savory and aromatic notes. Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the flour. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes; this step is essential as the flour cooks out its raw taste and acts as the thickening agent for the sauce.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Next, add frozen peas followed by the chicken stock and milk. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens into a deliciously creamy consistency that will hold your filling together without being runny.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Cool

Fold your cooked, shredded chicken into the thickened sauce and taste to adjust salt and pepper if needed. Allow this mixture to cool down completely—this prevents the puff pastry from getting soggy and ensures clean, crisp edges when baked.

Step 5: Assemble the Hand Pies

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry sheets briefly and cut each into 8 equal rectangles. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the chicken pot pie filling onto the center of one rectangle, then cover with another rectangle. Seal the edges firmly by pressing down with a fork, enclosing all that wonderful filling.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush each hand pie generously with the beaten egg to give a beautiful glossy finish. Bake your pies in the oven for 20 to 22 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes—this helps the filling set slightly, making them easier and more enjoyable to eat.

How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme leaves on top can add a fresh, vibrant note that complements the warm, savory filling perfectly. A light dusting of freshly ground black pepper adds a little extra kick just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these hand pies with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or serve alongside simple roasted vegetables for a comforting, well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy any appetite.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange your Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies on a rustic wooden board or a colorful serving platter. Offering a variety of small dipping sauces like mustard aioli or a warming herb gravy can elevate the experience and encourage guests to customize each bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any uneaten hand pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic option for quick lunches or snacks during the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) hand pies by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze solid before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain their quality for up to 2 months and can be baked straight from the freezer with a slightly longer cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the hand pies in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy, losing that glorious flaky texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that saves time and still delivers deliciously tender meat for your Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies.

Is puff pastry the only pastry option I can use?

Puff pastry works best to achieve that flaky, buttery crust, but you could also use shortcrust pastry if you prefer a sturdier, crumbly texture. Just keep in mind this will change the overall mouthfeel!

Can I make these hand pies vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with hearty mushrooms or roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes and zucchini, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep that rich, savory flavor.

What can I do if my filling is too runny?

Try cooking the filling a bit longer to let more liquid evaporate or add a little more flour when thickening. Cooling the filling completely before assembly also helps it set better inside the pastry.

Are these hand pies freezer-friendly after baking?

Yes, you can freeze baked hand pies. Just wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap then place them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispy exterior.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that’s easy to make, fun to eat, and sure to become a beloved favorite at your table. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these hand pies bring warmth, flavor, and a bit of magic to every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy they bring!

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