I’ve discovered that Sam’s Club chicken pot pie offers a delightful balance of homestyle comfort and convenience. This savory pie is crammed with tender chunks of chicken, vegetables, and a lusciously creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a warm, welcoming meal to share with friends, this chicken pot pie hits all the right notes.
My approach to this recipe is straightforward, ensuring even novice cooks can tackle it with confidence. I believe that great recipes don’t have to be complex, and this easy chicken pot pie from Sam’s Club is a testament to that philosophy. It’s become a staple in my kitchen not only because of its simplicity but also due to the heartwarming, satisfying flavors it brings to the table.
Ingredients and Substitutions
When making Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie, I find that the choice of ingredients and potential substitutions can significantly influence the flavor and texture. For the freshest taste, I opt for specific fresh vegetables, herbs, and chicken parts. Moreover, the type of pie crust used can alter the final product, with various possibilities available to suit different dietary needs or preferences.
Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
My go-to selection for this recipe includes a cup of carrot, peas, and corn. These vegetables lend a classic, comforting taste to the pot pie. However, should these veggies not be on hand, alternatives such as green beans or diced potatoes can fill in nicely. Regarding fresh herbs, I prefer using thyme and rosemary for their aromatic depth. Dried herbs may also be used, but I recommend a third of the quantity since their flavors are more concentrated.
Choosing the Right Chicken
While rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut for its convenience and rich flavor, I often use leftover chicken breasts as a leaner option. If substituting, I ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces.
Pie Crust Options
There’s nothing quite like a flaky pie crust to encase the hearty filling of a chicken pot pie. I sometimes roll out my own homemade pie crust, but on busier days I don’t hesitate to use a pre-made refrigerated pie crust. Either option should yield a deliciously golden top layer, given it’s baked properly.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
Finally, to boost the pot pie’s savoriness, a pinch of sea salt and some chicken broth are indispensable in my recipe. I find they add that extra depth of flavor that turns a good chicken pot pie into a great one. Chicken stock can easily substitute broth, and various other spices and seasonings can be added to cater to personal tastes.
Preparation Steps
When I prepare Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie, I focus on creating a rich, hearty filling and ensuring that the assembly process is precise to achieve the perfect bake. Here’s how I handle each part of the process:
Preparing the Filling
In my large skillet over medium heat, I melt a little butter to create the base. Next add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the skillet, sautéing them until they are soft to infuse the pie with bright fresh flavors. I then stir in flour to help thicken the mixture, followed by slowly pouring in chicken broth and cream for a smooth, sumptuous filling. Chunks of cooked chicken are then added, simmering together so each bite is infused with the rich flavors.
Assembling the Pie
Once the filling is ready, I pour it into the bottom crust of the pot pie, which I’ve already placed in the pie dish. It’s important to ensure the mixture is not too hot when doing this to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. Then I lay the top crust over the filling, crimp the edges to seal in the goodness, and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Before baking, an egg wash over the crust gives it that desirable golden color.
Baking the Perfect Pot Pie
When I bake a Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie, I pay special attention to the crust and the temperature settings. It’s crucial for achieving the much-desired golden and flaky perfection.
Applying Egg Wash for a Golden Finish
I always start by preparing my egg wash, which is key to a golden and delectable top crust. For this, I gently beat an egg with a little water until it’s well mixed. Then, I brush the top crust of the pot pie evenly with this mixture. The egg wash acts as a glaze during the baking process, giving the flaky pie crust a beautiful sheen and rich color.
Baking Time and Temperature
In terms of baking time and temperature, I’ve found that preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C) is ideal. On a lined baking sheet, I bake the pot pie until it’s evenly cooked, which typically takes about 45 to 50 minutes. This duration allows the pot pie to heat through while ensuring the crust doesn’t burn. I look for a filling that’s bubbling and a crust that’s a deep golden brown which indicates that my pot pie is ready to be taken out of the oven.
By following these steps, my Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie turns out delectable with a flaky, golden top crust, just as it should be.
Serving and Storage Tips
When I bake a chicken pot pie from Sam’s Club, ensuring it’s enjoyed at its best involves a cooling period post-baking and proper storage if there are any leftovers. I’ll walk you through the optimal ways to serve a pie that can make a yummy meal for the whole family and how to store what you can’t finish for later enjoyment.
Resting Time After Baking
After removing my chicken pot pie from the oven, I give it sufficient time to rest. This allows the filling to set and cool slightly, which makes it easier to slice without falling apart. Ideally, I let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Storing Leftovers
If we have leftovers, which is rare since the pies are quite delicious, I follow a couple of simple steps to ensure the pie stays as fresh and tasty as when it came out of the oven. I tightly cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container; this helps keep the pie moist and prevents it from absorbing other flavors in the fridge. I typically consume leftovers within 2-3 days to ensure they remain safe and delicious to eat.
Variations and Customizations
In this section, I’ll guide you through creating delightful mini chicken pot pies and making dietary adjustments to tailor the classic Sam’s Club chicken pot pie to your preferences. Achieving a buttery, creamy texture while incorporating personal touches or nutritional needs is straightforward with these ideas.
Mini Chicken Pot Pies
For those who love a good chicken pot pie but want it in a more personalized serving, making mini chicken pot pies is a great option. You can use a muffin tin to portion the pie crust and filling into individual servings. This method is especially appealing if you’re looking to create a memorable meal for a dinner party or want a convenient, single-serving option for later use. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as these smaller versions will bake faster than a full-sized pie.
To keep the mini pies as buttery and creamy as the larger variety, I ensure to not skimp on the quality of the filling. I use the same rich mixture of tender chicken, cream, and herbs, and sometimes, I even mix in a bit of extra butter into the dough for the crust to enhance the flakiness.
More Variations
Variation | Crust Type | Special Ingredient | Cooking Time | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Classic Chicken Pot Pie | Flaky Pie Crust | – | 45 mins | Traditional and comforting |
Creamy Mushroom Pot Pie | Puff Pastry | Mushrooms | 50 mins | Rich and earthy flavor |
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pie | Shortcrust | Hot Sauce | 40 mins | A fiery twist |
Veggie Lovers Chicken Pie | Whole Wheat | Broccoli, Carrots | 50 mins | Packed with veggies |
Cheesy Chicken Pot Pie | Cheddar Biscuit | Cheddar Cheese | 55 mins | Cheesy goodness in every bite |
Gluten-Free Chicken Pie | Gluten-Free Crust | – | 45 mins | Safe for gluten sensitivities |
Skillet Chicken Pot Pie | No Crust | – | 35 mins | Easy, crustless option |
Dietary Adjustments
Making dietary adjustments to the chicken pot pie recipe can cater to various dietary restrictions or preferences without compromising on flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on calories without sacrificing the creamy texture, consider using a reduced-fat milk or cream alternative. For those avoiding gluten, a gluten-free pie crust is a perfect substitution.
When incorporating frozen vegetables into your pot pie, opt for a blend that complements the chicken and creamy sauce well, like mixed carrots, peas, and green beans. These vegetables do not only add color and texture but also boost the nutritional value of the meal. If you’re vegetarian or making a pot pie for someone who is, simply substitute the chicken with a hearty plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth as the base for your creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve compiled the most common questions about preparing and enjoying a chicken pot pie similar to the ones you find at Sam’s Club, focusing on ingredients, cooking times, nutritional content, storage, reheating, internal temperature, and flavor enhancement.
What are the key ingredients in making a chicken pot pie similar to Sam’s Club version?
My research indicates that essential ingredients include cooked chicken breast, cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, and a pie crust. To replicate Sam’s Club’s chicken pot pie, mix these ingredients before baking.
How long does it take to properly cook a chicken pot pie like the ones sold at Sam’s Club?
According to different instructions, it typically takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes to cook, depending on the recipe and oven temperature, which can range from 375°F to 400°F.
What is the nutritional content of Sam’s Club’s chicken pot pie?
The exact nutritional content can vary, but Sam’s Club chicken pot pie is generally known for being hearty and rich. You can expect a considerable amount of calories, protein, carbs, and fats from each serving. For specifics, consult the product details.
Can you freeze a chicken pot pie from Sam’s Club and if so, how should you reheat it?
Yes, you can freeze it. For best results when you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator, then reheat it in an oven preheated to 375°F until it is fully warm throughout.
How can you ensure that a chicken pot pie reaches the correct internal temperature?
To ensure food safety and optimal taste, a meat thermometer should read 165°F in the center of the pie when it’s properly cooked. Check the temperature toward the end of cooking time.
What tips can you provide to enhance the flavor of a homemade chicken pot pie, preventing it from tasting bland?
For a more savory pot pie, use herbs like thyme and a bay leaf during the simmering process of the filling and ensure proper seasoning with salt and pepper. For a golden crust, apply an egg wash before baking.
Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie Copycat
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutesA hearty and comforting classic meal the whole family will love!
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup diced celery
1/3 cup butter
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon celery seed
1 3/4 cups chicken broth
2/3 cup milk
2 9-inch unbaked pie crusts
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion and celery in butter until tender.
- Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed until well combined.
- Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Add the cooked chicken and mixed vegetables to the skillet, stirring to combine.
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with one of the pie crusts.
- Pour the chicken mixture into the pie crust.
- Cover with the second pie crust, seal the edges, and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.