How to Make the Best Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe at Home

There’s something undeniably comforting about a Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe—a golden, flaky crust filled with creamy, savory goodness. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a Sunday family dinner, or just a craving for something hearty, this dish never disappoints. With its tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and rich, creamy sauce, it’s no wonder that chicken pot pie has remained a beloved classic for generations.

Using Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts simplifies the process while still delivering that homemade taste. Instead of fussing with making your own dough, Pillsbury crusts allow you to focus on the filling—ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures without extra effort.

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal but fancy enough for a dinner party. Plus, it’s easily customizable, making it ideal for those who love to experiment with flavors. Whether you add extra herbs, switch up the veggies, or use leftover rotisserie chicken, this dish always turns out amazing.

So, if you’re looking for a meal that brings warmth and nostalgia in every bite, this Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is exactly what you need. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how you can make it at home with ease!

Why This Recipe Works

There are plenty of chicken pot pie recipes out there, but this Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe stands out for several reasons:

1. Time-Saving & Convenient

Making pie crust from scratch is a time-consuming process that can be intimidating for many home cooks. Pillsbury pie crusts eliminate this hurdle, making it easy to assemble a delicious homemade chicken pot pie in no time. Simply unroll the dough, press it into the pan, and you’re ready to go!

2. Perfectly Flaky, Buttery Crust

One of the best parts of any chicken pot pie is the crust. Pillsbury pie crusts bake up beautifully golden brown and flaky, giving you that classic homemade taste without the extra work. The buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling.

3. Rich, Creamy Filling

The filling is where this dish truly shines. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and vegetables creates a well-balanced, savory comfort food experience. Using simple ingredients like heavy cream, chicken broth, and butter results in a luxurious texture that tastes like it was made completely from scratch.

4. Customizable to Your Preferences

This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand—peas, carrots, green beans, or even mushrooms work beautifully. Want a bit more depth of flavor? Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Prefer a different protein? Try turkey instead of chicken.

5. Great for Leftovers

Chicken pot pie tastes just as good the next day, making it an excellent meal prep option. It reheats well, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

6. Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved

Even picky eaters love this dish! The creamy texture, flaky crust, and mild yet delicious flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you need to make this Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe:

For the Crust:

• 1 box (14.1 oz) Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts – Makes it quick and easy while delivering a flaky, golden crust.

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix – No need to chop; just thaw before using.
• ½ cup diced celery – Adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor.
• ½ cup diced onion – Essential for a savory base.
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter – Helps create a rich, creamy sauce.
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the filling perfectly.
• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth – Use a good-quality broth for the best flavor.
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk) – Makes the filling extra creamy.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds warmth and a mild kick.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Brings in a subtle, earthy flavor.
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash) – Gives the crust a golden, glossy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First Step: Preheat & Prepare the Pie Crust (5 minutes)

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Roll out one Pillsbury pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess crust.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables (5 minutes)

3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt ⅓ cup butter.
4. Add the diced onion, celery, peas, and carrots. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onions turn translucent.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce (5 minutes)

5. Stir in ⅓ cup flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Gradually whisk in 1 ¾ cups chicken broth, making sure there are no lumps.
7. Add ½ cup heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir and let it thicken for 2 minutes.

Fourth Step: Add the Chicken (2 minutes)

8. Stir in the shredded chicken. Mix everything well, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Pot Pie (5 minutes)

9. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
10. Place the second Pillsbury pie crust on top. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork or pinching with your fingers.
11. Cut 4 small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
12. Brush the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 6: Bake & Serve (35 minutes)

13. Bake at 425°F for 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
14. Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for Success

To make sure your Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe turns out perfectly, keep these expert tips in mind:

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. If cooking chicken from scratch, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, and poach or roast them before shredding.

2. Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust

For an extra-crispy bottom crust, pre-bake the bottom pie crust for 5 minutes before adding the filling. This helps prevent sogginess.

3. Let the Filling Cool Slightly Before Assembling

Hot filling can make the bottom crust soggy. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before pouring it into the pie shell.

4. Don’t Skip the Egg Wash

Brushing the top crust with a beaten egg gives it a gorgeous golden-brown finish. If you don’t have an egg, you can use milk or melted butter instead.

5. Customize the Veggies

Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand. For example, you can try adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor, corn for a touch of sweetness, green beans for a bit of crunch, or even diced potatoes for extra heartiness.

6. Add More Flavor with Fresh Herbs

While dried thyme works great, fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley will enhance the flavor even more.

7. Make Individual Pot Pies

Instead of a large pie, divide the filling into ramekins or small oven-safe dishes and top each with a small piece of Pillsbury pie crust. Perfect for individual servings!

8. Use Puff Pastry for a Flakier Top Crust

Want an extra flaky texture? Substitute Pillsbury pie crust with puff pastry for a lighter, crispier top.

Variants of the Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

One of the best things about a Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe is its versatility. You can tweak it to fit different tastes, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Here are some delicious variations:

1. Turkey Pot Pie

Swap the chicken for shredded or diced turkey, making this a perfect recipe for using up Thanksgiving leftovers. The flavors pair beautifully with the same creamy sauce and vegetables.

2. Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie

For an extra indulgent twist, stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the filling before assembling the pie. The cheese melts into the sauce, adding a rich, comforting flavor.

3. Biscuit-Topped Chicken Pot Pie

Instead of a traditional pie crust, use Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits on top. Arrange the raw biscuits over the filling and bake until golden brown. This version is easier and adds a delightful, buttery biscuit topping.

4. Low-Carb Chicken Pot Pie

Replace the pie crust with a cauliflower mash topping for a low-carb option. Simply spoon the creamy chicken filling into a dish and spread mashed cauliflower on top before baking.

5. Vegetarian Pot Pie

Omit the chicken and use mushrooms, potatoes, green beans, and extra carrots for a hearty vegetarian version. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for protein.

6. Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Make individual pot pies by dividing the filling into muffin tins lined with small rounds of Pillsbury pie crust. Top each with another small round of dough and bake for 15-20 minutes. These are perfect for parties or meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

A warm, golden Pillsbury chicken pot pie is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can take it to the next level. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Green Salad

Balance the richness of the pot pie with a light, refreshing salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette works beautifully.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or butternut squash for a hearty, nutritious meal. Roasting enhances their natural sweetness, making them a great contrast to the creamy filling.

3. Mashed Potatoes

Double down on comfort food by serving your pot pie with a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the flaky crust.

4. Cranberry Sauce

For a Thanksgiving-inspired twist, a side of cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tangy contrast that enhances the flavors of the chicken and crust.

5. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

Soft, buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for soaking up the extra creamy filling.

6. Sauteed Greens

A side of sautéed spinach, kale, or collard greens cooked with garlic and a splash of lemon juice adds a healthy and delicious balance to the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

This Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Follow these tips to keep it fresh and delicious:

How to Store Leftovers

In the Refrigerator:

• Let the pot pie cool to room temperature before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer slices into an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

In the Freezer:

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store for up to 3 months.
• To freeze a whole pot pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

How to Reheat Chicken Pot Pie

In the Oven (Best Method)

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pot pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes (or 30-40 minutes if reheating from frozen) until heated through.

And in the Microwave (For Quick Reheating)

• Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat on 50% power for 2-3 minutes, checking to make sure it heats evenly.
• The crust won’t be as crispy, so if possible, finish it in a toaster oven for a few minutes.

In the Air Fryer (For Crispy Crust)

• Set the air fryer to 350°F and reheat for 5-7 minutes.
• This method works well for maintaining a flaky, crispy crust.

Recipe Card

Pillsbury Chicken Pot Pie

Recipe by SouhailCourse: LunchDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

A creamy, savory chicken pot pie with a golden, flaky Pillsbury crust—perfect for a cozy dinner! This easy recipe is packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

• For the Crust

• 1 box (14.1 oz) Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts

• For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (thawed)

• ½ cup diced celery

• ½ cup diced onion

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth

• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Directions

• Preheat & Prepare the Crust
• Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
• Roll out one Pillsbury pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
• Cook the Vegetables
• In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter.
• Add onion, celery, peas, and carrots. Sauté 3–4 minutes.
• Make the Sauce
• Stir in flour; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
• Gradually whisk in chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and thyme.
• Let it thicken for 2 minutes.
• Add Chicken & Assemble the Pie
• Stir in shredded chicken and remove from heat.
• Pour filling into the pie crust.
• Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges.
• Cut 4 small slits for steam release and brush with egg wash.
• Bake & Serve
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
• Let cool 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Add fresh herbs for extra flavor.
• Pre-bake the bottom crust for 5 minutes to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Shopping List

Here’s a convenient shopping list for making this Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe. You can print or screenshot it for your next grocery trip.

Dairy & Refrigerated Items:

• 1 box (14.1 oz) Pillsbury refrigerated pie crusts
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter
• ½ cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 egg

Meat & Protein:

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken)

Vegetables:

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (thawed)
• ½ cup diced celery
• ½ cup diced onion

Pantry Staples:

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a homemade Pillsbury chicken pot pie to bring warmth and comfort to the table. With its flaky, buttery crust and rich, creamy filling, it’s the perfect dish for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep.

This recipe is also incredibly customizable—you can swap out veggies, add different proteins, or even turn it into mini pot pies for individual servings. Plus, thanks to Pillsbury’s pre-made crusts, making this dish from scratch is easier than ever.

If you’re looking for more delicious meal ideas, be sure to check out our collection of lunch recipes. Whether you need something quick and easy, light and healthy, or rich and indulgent, we have plenty of options to keep your midday meals exciting. Explore new flavors and find your next favorite go-to lunch!

So why not give this Pillsbury chicken pot pie recipe a try? Whether you’re making it for family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a taste of nostalgia, this dish is sure to satisfy. Let me know in the comments if you made any fun variations, and don’t forget to share your creations online!