Delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that has been cherished for generations. Its creamy filling and flaky pastry make it a satisfying meal whether you're having friends over or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight. This slow cooker version allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while keeping your kitchen clean and your hands free.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cornstarch for dusting (optional)
• 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 package refrigerated pie crust or 9-inch ready-made pie crust

Instructions:

1. Combine the chicken, onions, celery, carrots, and chicken broth in a slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is falling apart and very tender.
3. Remove half of the cooked chicken from the crockpot using tongs (or a slotted spoon) into a large bowl. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the pot. Stir in flour, condensed soup, and cornstarch until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Pour the mixture back into the slow cooker. Cover tightly again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
5. Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 425°F (218°C).
6. To assemble, spoon the filling into a deep baking dish. Roll out your pie crust and place it over the top of the pot pie. Trim any excess crust. You may want to cut a few slits in the center of the pastry for venting.
7. Bake at 425°F (218°C) until golden brown, about 30-35 minutes.

Time: Approximately 6 hours hands-off time plus 45 minutes baking time. Servings: This dish serves approximately 6 people depending on the portion size and how hungry your guests are!

How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

Slow cooking allows you to create a rich, savory chicken pot pie with minimal effort. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Here’s what makes this dish so delicious:

• Flavorful Filling: The slow cooking process ensures that each ingredient is infused into the sauce, resulting in a rich and creamy filling.
• Fresh Ingredients: By using fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, you get a fresh taste with every bite.
• Flaky Crust: A ready-made pie crust makes sure your pot pie has that flaky top everyone loves.
• Easy Cleanup: With the slow cooker doing most of the work, there's very little mess to clean up!

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

To make sure your chicken pot pie turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These have more flavor and moisture than white meat. They’re also easier to shred once cooked.
• Cook on Low for Longer: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook your chicken pot pie for about 6-8 hours. This ensures that all ingredients are tender by the time you serve it.
• Thicken Wisely: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add cornstarch or flour to the mixture before returning it to the slow cooker. Stir well until smooth and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes on high heat.
• Serve with Garlic Bread or Fresh Salad: Chicken pot pie is a hearty dish that can be served as a main course but also makes wonderful leftovers. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the meal.

Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie?

Slow cooker chicken pot pie provides several benefits:

• Convenience: Preparing this dish in advance and letting it cook on low heat while you're away means that all you need to do is pop it into the oven just before serving.
• Versatility: You can customize it with various vegetables or add different spices for a unique flavor profile. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover chicken from other meals.
• Comfort Food: Chicken pot pie is comfort food at its best, perfect for rainy days when you just want something warm and comforting.

The next time you're craving homemade chicken pot pie but don't have the time to spend hours in the kitchen, give this slow cooker version a try. It's easy enough for beginners yet packed with flavor that even seasoned chefs will enjoy!