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Mama’s Chicken Pie

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Mama’s Chicken Pie: A Comfort Food Classic

Few dishes evoke the warmth and nostalgia of home-cooked meals like a hearty chicken pie. “Mama’s Chicken Pie” is a recipe that brings comfort to the table, combining tender chicken, savory cream of chicken soup, and flaky pie crust for the perfect meal. This simple yet delicious dish is a great choice for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavor in every bite.

In this article, we’ll guide you through making Mama’s Chicken Pie, complete with tips, variations, and answers to commonly asked questions to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients for Mama’s Chicken Pie

Main Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken or 3 large boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
  • 1 1/2 soup cans of chicken broth (use the cream of chicken soup can to measure)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Crust and Topping

  • 2 frozen 9″ pie crusts, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mama’s Chicken Pie

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  • Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring to a boil and cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  • Reserve the cooking liquid: Save the water used to cook the chicken as it becomes a flavorful base for the broth.
  • Shred the chicken: Once cooled, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  • Combine the ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the chicken: Fold the chopped chicken into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

  • Prepare the baking dish: Lightly spray a 9×9 baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Layer the filling: Spoon half of the chicken mixture into the baking dish and spread it evenly.
  • Add the crust: Lay strips of pie crust over the chicken mixture, overlapping slightly.
  • Dot with butter: Place small dots of 1 tablespoon of butter over the crust for added flavor.

Step 4: Bake the First Layer

  • Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the dish for 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Step 5: Add the Second Layer

  • Add the remaining filling: Remove the baking dish from the oven and spoon the remaining chicken mixture on top of the baked crust.
  • Top with pie crust: Lay the remaining pie crust strips over the top layer. Again, dot with 1 tablespoon of butter.
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Step 6: Finish Baking

  • Bake again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and flaky.
  • Let it rest: Allow the pie to sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Pie

  1. Save the Broth: Using the water from cooking the chicken enhances the dish’s flavor. For an even richer taste, you can simmer the cooking liquid with herbs like bay leaves or thyme.
  2. Customize Your Vegetables: Add sautéed onions, carrots, or celery to the filling for added texture and flavor.
  3. Prevent Soggy Crusts: Bake the bottom layer of the crust until golden brown before adding the second layer of filling to avoid sogginess.
  4. Short on Time? Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
  5. Enhance the Crust: For an extra flaky crust, brush it with an egg wash before baking.

Variations

1. Vegetable Chicken Pie

Add frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn to the chicken mixture for a heartier pie.

2. Cheesy Chicken Pie

Mix shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) into the filling for a creamy and cheesy twist.

3. Herbed Crust Chicken Pie

Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley to the pie crust for an aromatic and flavorful topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this chicken pie in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling a day ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble and bake the pie when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze chicken pie?

Absolutely! Once baked and cooled, wrap the chicken pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through.

3. Can I substitute fresh chicken with canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used as a substitute. However, fresh or rotisserie chicken provides a more flavorful result.

4. What other crust options can I use?

Instead of frozen pie crust, you can use puff pastry, phyllo dough, or even homemade biscuit dough.

5. How can I prevent the crust edges from burning?

Cover the edges of the pie crust with aluminum foil during the first half of baking, removing it toward the end for a golden finish.

Mama’s Chicken Pie is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with hearty flavors. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of home!

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