There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a homemade chicken pie, especially when it feels like a hug from your mama. The moment you pull this golden, flaky masterpiece from the oven, the tantalizing aroma will fill your home, instantly warming hearts and raising spirits. This Easy Mama’s Chicken Pie showcases a velvety filling made with tender chicken and creamy soup, all effortlessly cradled in a crust that simply begs to be shared.
I remember a chilly evening when I desperately needed a comforting meal after a long day. With a few simple ingredients—probably already lurking in my pantry—I tucked away competition from greasy takeout and whipped up this family favorite. Even the pickiest of eaters couldn’t resist! Not only does it feature ingredients that you likely have on hand, but it’s also a clever way to repurpose leftover chicken, transforming it into a delightful dish that everyone will adore. So, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create not just a meal, but a moment of nostalgia that even your loved ones will cherish.
Why is Mama’s Chicken Pie the ultimate comfort food?
Comforting Flavors: Each bite delivers the warmth of home-cooked love, combining creamy chicken and savory broth.
Easy to Make: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s straightforward enough for any home cook.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, this dish never fails to impress, even the fussiest eaters!
Versatile Leftover Solution: Enjoy using leftover chicken, effortlessly transforming meals from blah to brilliant.
Satisfying Texture: The golden, flaky crust adds a delightful crunch, complementing the creamy filling beautifully.
Mama’s Chicken Pie Ingredients
• Prepare to whip up a comforting classic that your family will love!
For the Filling
- Whole Chicken or 3 Large Boneless Breasts – Main protein; consider using leftover baked chicken for a quicker prep.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz) – Adds creaminess and flavor; can be replaced with homemade chicken gravy for a fresher taste.
- Chicken Broth – Provides moisture and enhances flavor; use low-sodium broth for a healthier alternative.
- Salt – Enhances overall taste; adjust the amount based on the broth’s sodium level.
- Pepper – Offers mild spice; feel free to omit if preferred by sensitive palates.
For the Crust
- Frozen 9″ Pie Crust (thawed) – Provides structure and ease; a homemade crust offers a flakier, more rustic finish.
- Butter – Adds richness and aids in achieving a golden crust; optional for a lighter dish.
Inside this Mama’s Chicken Pie, simple ingredients come together to create a heartwarming meal that everyone in your family will adore.
How to Make Mama’s Chicken Pie
-
Prep Chicken: If you’re starting with raw chicken, boil it in a pot of water until fully cooked, about 30 minutes. Shred it with forks, or if you have leftovers, simply chop or shred the cooked chicken for use.
-
Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with a can of cream of chicken soup and about a cup of chicken broth. Season lightly with salt and pepper, mixing until the ingredients are well incorporated.
-
Prepare Crust: Take a thawed frozen pie crust and lay it in a greased 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently to fit. Pour the creamy chicken filling evenly over the bottom crust.
-
Top Layer: For an artistic touch, create a basket weave with the second crust or simply lay straight strips across the filling for a beautiful finish.
-
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for about 55 minutes, or until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling bubbles temptingly.
-
Cool & Serve: Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Optional: Serve with a side of freshly made mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Mama’s Chicken Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative with this comforting classic and make it uniquely yours!
- Rotisserie Chicken: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor without added prep time. It’s a real game changer!
- Homemade Gravy: Swap cream of chicken soup with homemade chicken gravy for a deliciously fresh taste that shines through. You’ll love the difference!
- Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to elevate the flavor profile and warm up your senses. It’s aromatic and inviting!
- Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling. Just enough spice to wake up your taste buds!
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in a cup of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) into the filling for added creaminess and a gooey texture. Who can resist cheesy goodness?
- Vegetable Twist: While staying true to the classic, sneak in finely chopped mushrooms or peas to the filling for a nutritious boost without overshadowing the chicken. Perfect for sneaky veggie lovers!
- Whole Wheat Crust: Opt for a whole wheat pie crust instead of a traditional one for a healthier option that still delivers that beloved flaky texture. It’s good for you and delicious!
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use a gluten-free pie crust or even a cauliflower crust to accommodate gluten-sensitive folks while keeping the flavors intact. Flexibility at its best!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Mama’s Chicken Pie in advance is a fantastic way to save time on hectic weeknights! You can assemble the entire pie up to 24 hours ahead of baking. Simply follow the recipe instructions and cover the unbaked pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating. This not only keeps your pie fresh but also enhances the flavors as they meld overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake the pie directly from the fridge; it may need an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven to reach that golden perfection. Enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort, perfect for busy families!
What to Serve with Mama’s Chicken Pie?
Pair your comforting chicken pie with these delightful accompaniments that enhance your meal experience and create heartwarming memories together.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness and smooth texture meld beautifully with each savory bite of pie, making every forkful a comforting delight.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the hearty pie, refreshing your palate between bites.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a tender sweetness that complements the savory filling perfectly, rounding out the meal with added texture.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any creamy filling, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs like parsley or thyme adds an aromatic touch and pairs well with the rich chicken pie.
- Apple Sauce: A classic childhood favorite, its sweet tanginess offers a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the pie, bringing nostalgia to the table.
- Iced Tea: Refreshing sweet or unsweetened iced tea is a great way to cool down and cleanse your palate alongside the warmth of the chicken pie.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a light, airy chocolate mousse that will leave everyone with a smile.
Expert Tips for Mama’s Chicken Pie
• Shred Chicken Well: Ensure your chicken is shredded into small, even pieces for balanced distribution in the filling.
• Avoid Over-browning: Keep an eye on the crust while baking; cover the edges with foil if they start to darken too quickly.
• Cool Before Serving: Let the pie rest for about 10 minutes after baking; this allows the filling to set and prevents spills when slicing.
• Use Leftovers Wisely: Repurpose rotisserie or leftover chicken to save time while keeping this Mama’s Chicken Pie an easy and satisfying dish.
• Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to give your pie a unique twist without complicating the recipe.
How to Store and Freeze Mama’s Chicken Pie
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken pie fresh and flavorful for quick meals.
Freezer: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes to maintain that delicious flaky crust. You can enjoy Mama’s Chicken Pie anytime!
Make-Ahead: Assemble the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked; simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal.
Mama’s Chicken Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Mama’s Chicken Pie?
Absolutely! You can use a whole chicken or 3 large boneless breasts. If you’re in a pinch, leftover baked chicken works wonders and makes prep even quicker!
How should I store leftovers of Mama’s Chicken Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This makes it easy to grab a slice for lunch or dinner later in the week!
Can I freeze Mama’s Chicken Pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven.
What should I do if my crust is browning too quickly while baking?
If you notice the crust getting too dark before the filling is bubbly, cover the edges with aluminum foil. This shields the crust while allowing the filling to cook perfectly!
Is Mama’s Chicken Pie suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Very! To cater to dietary needs, you can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option. As for allergies, ensure that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free if necessary, and always check your ingredients, especially for any gluten or dairy sensitivities.
How do I make Mama’s Chicken Pie ahead of time?
No problem! You can assemble the pie a day in advance. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, simply pop it into the oven for a hearty, fresh meal!
Mama's Chicken Pie: Simple Comfort Food for Family Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the chicken in a pot of water until fully cooked, about 30 minutes. Shred or chop the cooked chicken.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lay the thawed pie crust in a greased pie dish, pressing gently. Pour the creamy chicken filling over the bottom crust.
- Create a basket weave with the second crust or lay strips across the filling.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 55 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles.
- Allow to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.