Easy Chicken Pot Pie in a Skillet

Introduction

Nothing says comfort like a warm, savory Chicken Pot Pie, and this Easy Chicken Pot Pie in a Skillet brings all the cozy flavors of the classic dish without the fuss of individual pies or complicated baking. Combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce topped with golden, flaky pastry, this one-pan meal is both satisfying and simple to make. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or when you want a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its convenience: everything is cooked in a single skillet, from sautéing the vegetables to simmering the chicken filling and finally browning the crust. You get all the traditional flavors of a pot pie, but with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. This dish is highly customizable—you can swap vegetables according to what’s in season or what you have on hand, and the creamy sauce can be easily adjusted to your taste.

With every bite, you get the combination of juicy chicken, tender vegetables, rich sauce, and buttery crust. It’s a meal that pleases adults and kids alike, and leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.

Background and Inspiration

Chicken pot pie has long been a staple of American comfort food, originating from British savory pies that combined meat and vegetables in a pastry crust. Traditionally baked in individual dishes or a large casserole, these pies became a family favorite for their hearty and flavorful fillings.

This skillet version streamlines the classic recipe while maintaining the essence of the dish. By cooking the filling and topping it with a single sheet of puff pastry or biscuit dough directly in the skillet, you achieve a golden, crisp top with creamy, flavorful filling underneath, all without extra baking dishes or pans. It’s a modern twist on a traditional favorite, designed for ease without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One skillet = minimal cleanup
Quick and easy: Ready in under 45 minutes
Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike
Versatile: Swap vegetables or use leftover chicken
Comforting and hearty: Perfect for chilly evenings

Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup (150 g) frozen peas
2 cups (300 g) cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth
1 cup (240 ml) milk
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 sheet puff pastry or 1 cup biscuit dough
1 egg, beaten (for brushing puff pastry)

Equipment

10–12 inch oven-safe skillet
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables

In the oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables are tender. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw flour taste. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until sauce thickens.

3. Add Chicken and Peas

Stir in cooked chicken, frozen peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Reduce heat to low.

4. Top with Pastry

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry or biscuit dough to cover the skillet. Place it over the filling, tucking edges slightly. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.

5. Bake Until Golden

Transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

6. Serve

Slice and serve directly from the skillet. Optional: garnish with fresh parsley for color and extra flavor.

Pro Tips for Success

Even cooking: Make sure the filling is not too watery before adding the pastry to avoid a soggy crust.
Vegetable variations: Add mushrooms, corn, or green beans for extra flavor.
Leftover chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.
Pastry alternative: Use biscuit dough for a quicker, rustic topping.
Golden crust: Brush with egg wash to ensure a shiny, appetizing finish.

Variations & Customizations

Cheesy twist: Add shredded cheddar or Gruyère to the filling for extra richness.
Herb-forward: Include fresh rosemary or sage for a fragrant twist.
Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with tofu or extra vegetables, and use vegetable broth.
Mini pot pies: Use ramekins for individual servings, adjusting baking time slightly.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

Serve hot with a side of:

Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
Roasted root vegetables
Crusty bread for dipping in the creamy filling

This dish also pairs beautifully with a light dessert like fruit crisp or sorbet to balance the savory richness of the pot pie.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Microwave individual servings or warm the entire skillet in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Freeze: Cool the filling without the pastry, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before topping and baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes! It’s a convenient option and adds great flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or a mix of hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth.

Can I use biscuit dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, it creates a rustic, quicker-topping alternative.

Can I prep ahead?
Yes, prepare the filling in advance and add the pastry just before baking.

Conclusion

The Easy Chicken Pot Pie in a Skillet is a quick, comforting, and family-friendly meal that delivers all the cozy flavors of a traditional pot pie with less effort. Tender chicken, colorful vegetables, creamy sauce, and a golden crust come together in a single pan for a delightful weeknight dinner or casual gathering. Serve it fresh from the skillet for a warm, inviting presentation, and enjoy every comforting bite.