How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies

Have you ever wondered if you could enjoy all the warm, creamy, and cozy flavors of a chicken pot pie without making a full casserole dish? What if you could hold that same comfort in your hand, perfectly portioned and easy to enjoy on the go? That’s exactly where Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies come in—they’re fun, flaky, and packed with flavor.

These little pies bring the same homestyle goodness you know and love, but in a portable, easy-to-share version. They’re perfect for family dinners, school lunches, or even winter gatherings when you want comfort food without a lot of fuss.

Why Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies Are Special

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Chicken pot pie has always been a comfort classic, but turning it into hand pies makes it even better. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Portable and mess-free: No need for a fork or plate—you can hold it in your hand.
• Easy to make ahead: Bake them now, freeze them, and reheat later.
• Quick prep time: About 20 minutes of prep and 25–30 minutes of baking.
• Beginner-friendly: If you can roll dough and stir filling, you can make these pies.

Difficulty Level: Easy
Time Requirement: 45–50 minutes

Essential Ingredients

To make delicious Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies, you’ll need:

• Cooked chicken – shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great).
• Pie crust – homemade or store-bought.
• Vegetables – classic mix of peas, carrots, and corn.
• Onion and garlic – for flavor depth.
• Butter and flour – to create a creamy base.
• Chicken broth and milk – for the sauce.
• Seasonings – salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley.

Substitutions and Variations

• Swap chicken with turkey for a holiday leftover version.
• Use puff pastry instead of pie crust for an extra flaky bite.
• Replace milk with half-and-half for a creamier filling.
• Add mushrooms, green beans, or broccoli for more veggies.
• Make it vegetarian by using mushrooms and chickpeas instead of chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Filling

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and garlic, cook until soft.
3. Stir in flour to make a light roux.
4. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk until thick and creamy.
5. Add chicken, peas, carrots, and corn. Stir until everything is coated.
6. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Roll out pie crust on a lightly floured surface.
2. Cut circles or rectangles, depending on your preference.
3. Make sure each piece is large enough to hold filling and fold over.

Step 3: Fill and Seal

1. Place a spoonful of filling on one side of the dough piece.
2. Fold dough over the filling and press edges with a fork to seal.
3. Cut small slits in the top to let steam escape.
4. Brush with egg wash for a golden crust.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

• Use a cookie cutter for uniform shapes—circles, squares, or even fun seasonal shapes.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or herbs on top before baking.
• Serve warm with a small bowl of gravy for dipping.
• Place on a wooden board or platter for a rustic, homemade look.

Baking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Let cool slightly before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store baked hand pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked pies on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.
• Make-ahead filling: Prepare filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate until ready to use.

Recipe Variations

• Mini appetizer pies: Use smaller dough circles for bite-sized versions.
• Cheesy pies: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the filling.
• Breakfast twist: Swap chicken with scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese.
• Spicy pies: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Sweet version: Use the same hand pie method with fruit filling instead.

Conclusion

Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, a creamy filling, and flaky crust, you can bring this classic dish into a fun, family-friendly form. Whether you make them ahead for busy weeknights or serve them fresh at a dinner party, these hand pies will quickly become a go-to recipe. Try them once, and you’ll want to bake them again and again.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! Store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time.

2. How do I prevent soggy bottoms?
Make sure your filling cools before adding it to the dough, and bake on a parchment-lined sheet.

3. Can I make these hand pies gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pie crust and gluten-free flour for the sauce.

4. Are Chicken Pot Pie Hand Pies healthy?
They’re hearty and comforting, but you can make them lighter by using whole-wheat crust, skim milk, and extra veggies.

5. Can I reheat in the microwave?
You can, but the crust won’t be as crisp. The oven or air fryer gives the best results.

6. Can I serve these for parties?
Absolutely! They’re fun, easy to hold, and a hit with both kids and adults.