Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie: A Game-Changing Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Chicken pot pie, a staple of comfort food, has been a favorite for generations. The combination of tender chicken, flaky crust, and rich, savory filling is a match made in heaven. However, traditional chicken pot pie recipes can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring hours of preparation and cooking. That’s where the pressure cooker comes in – a game-changing kitchen appliance that can significantly reduce cooking time while preserving the flavors and textures of this beloved dish. In this article, we’ll explore the art of making chicken pot pie in a pressure cooker, and provide you with a simple, step-by-step recipe to try at home.

Understanding the Benefits of Pressure Cooking

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of pressure cooking. Pressure cookers work by trapping steam inside a sealed vessel, which increases the internal pressure and temperature. This allows for faster cooking times, as the high pressure and temperature break down connective tissues in meat and tenderize it quickly. Pressure cooking also helps to preserve nutrients, as the shorter cooking time and lower water content reduce the loss of vitamins and minerals.

In the case of chicken pot pie, pressure cooking is particularly useful for cooking the filling. By cooking the chicken, vegetables, and broth together in the pressure cooker, you can create a rich, flavorful filling in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Choosing the Right Pressure Cooker

If you’re new to pressure cooking, you may be wondering which type of pressure cooker to use. There are several options available, including stovetop, electric, and Instant Pot models. For this recipe, we recommend using an electric pressure cooker, such as an Instant Pot or similar model. These cookers are easy to use, safe, and offer a range of features that make cooking a breeze.

When choosing a pressure cooker, consider the following factors:

• Size: A 6-quart pressure cooker is a good size for most recipes, including this chicken pot pie filling.
• Features: Look for a pressure cooker with a range of features, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and yogurt making.
• Safety: Make sure the pressure cooker you choose has a range of safety features, including automatic shut-off, anti-blockage vent, and secure lid locking.

Preparing the Filling

Now that we’ve covered the benefits of pressure cooking and choosing the right pressure cooker, let’s move on to preparing the filling. This is the heart of the chicken pot pie, and it’s where the magic happens.

To make the filling, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

To prepare the filling, follow these steps:

• Press the “saute” button on your pressure cooker and melt the butter.
• Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
• Add the diced carrots and potatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
• Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle the flour over the top of the chicken and vegetables and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.
• Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper.

Cooking the Filling in the Pressure Cooker

Now that the filling is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the pressure cooker. This is where the magic happens, and the filling transforms into a rich, creamy, and tender masterpiece.

To cook the filling, follow these steps:

• Close the lid of the pressure cooker and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
• Press the “manual” or “pressure cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
• When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
• Open the lid and check that the filling is cooked through and the chicken is tender.

Assembling the Pot Pie

Now that the filling is cooked, it’s time to assemble the pot pie. This is the fun part, where you get to create a beautiful and delicious pie that’s sure to impress.

To assemble the pot pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
• 1 tablespoon water

To assemble the pot pie, follow these steps:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
• Spoon the cooked filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg and place the pastry over the filling.
• Trim the edges of the pastry to fit the dish and crimp to seal.
• Cut a few slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
• Brush the top of the pastry with the beaten egg and make a few small cuts to allow steam to escape.

Baking the Pot Pie

The final step is to bake the pot pie in the oven. This is where the pastry gets golden brown and the filling gets hot and bubbly.

To bake the pot pie, follow these steps:

• Place the pot pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
• Remove the pot pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the most of your pressure cooker chicken pot pie:

• Use leftover chicken or turkey to make the filling, or add some diced ham or bacon for extra flavor.
• Add some frozen peas and carrots to the filling for extra color and nutrients.
• Use a different type of pastry, such as shortcrust or filo, to create a different texture and flavor.
• Make individual pot pies in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a fun and easy dinner party.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making pressure cooker chicken pot pie:

• Overfilling the pressure cooker, which can lead to a messy and difficult cleanup.
• Not cooking the filling long enough, which can result in undercooked chicken and vegetables.
• Not letting the pressure release naturally, which can result in a loud and potentially dangerous release of steam.

Conclusion

Pressure cooker chicken pot pie is a game-changing twist on a classic comfort food. By using a pressure cooker to cook the filling, you can create a rich, creamy, and tender masterpiece in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. With its flaky pastry crust and savory filling, this pot pie is sure to become a favorite in your household. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

1. Press the “saute” button on your pressure cooker and melt the butter.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

• Use leftover chicken or turkey to make the filling, or add some diced ham or bacon for extra flavor.
• Add some frozen peas and carrots to the filling for extra color and nutrients.

What is a Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie?

A Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie is a creative twist on the classic comfort food dish. It combines the traditional flavors of chicken pot pie with the convenience and speed of a pressure cooker. This innovative recipe allows you to cook the filling and crust simultaneously, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.

The pressure cooker method significantly reduces cooking time, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks. The result is a flaky, buttery crust and a rich, flavorful filling that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its ease of preparation and impressive presentation, the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

What are the benefits of using a pressure cooker for chicken pot pie?

Using a pressure cooker for chicken pot pie offers several benefits. Firstly, it significantly reduces cooking time, allowing you to prepare a homemade meal in under an hour. The pressure cooker also helps to tenderize the chicken and vegetables, resulting in a rich and flavorful filling.

Additionally, the pressure cooker method eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze. The pressure cooker also helps to cook the crust evenly, resulting in a flaky and golden-brown texture. Overall, using a pressure cooker for chicken pot pie is a game-changer for home cooks who want to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal quickly and efficiently.

What ingredients do I need for the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie?

To make the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie, you’ll need a variety of ingredients, including boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, frozen mixed vegetables, all-purpose flour, butter, and chicken broth. You’ll also need puff pastry or homemade pie crust for the topping.

Other essential ingredients include onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. You can also customize the recipe to your taste by adding other herbs and spices, such as thyme or paprika. Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting to cook, as the pressure cooker method requires quick and efficient preparation.

Can I customize the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie recipe to suit my tastes?

Yes, you can customize the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie recipe to suit your tastes. One way to do this is by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the filling. You can also use different types of vegetables, such as diced carrots or sliced mushrooms, to add texture and flavor.

Another way to customize the recipe is by using different types of protein, such as diced ham or cooked sausage. You can also experiment with different types of pastry, such as homemade pie crust or gluten-free puff pastry. Feel free to get creative and make the recipe your own by adding your favorite ingredients and flavors.

Is the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie recipe suitable for special diets?

The Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie recipe can be adapted to suit special diets, such as gluten-free or low-carb. To make a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free puff pastry.

For a low-carb version, you can reduce the amount of pastry used or substitute it with a low-carb alternative, such as cauliflower crust. You can also use low-carb vegetables, such as green beans or zucchini, to reduce the carb content of the filling. However, please note that the recipe may require some adjustments to ensure that it meets your specific dietary needs.

Can I make the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie ahead of time. One way to do this is by preparing the filling and refrigerating or freezing it until you’re ready to cook. You can also prepare the pastry ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.

To cook the pie, simply assemble the filling and pastry in the pressure cooker and cook according to the recipe instructions. You can also cook the pie and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. Simply reheat the pie in the oven or microwave until it’s hot and flaky.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie?

One common mistake to avoid when making the Pressure Cooker Chicken Pot Pie is overfilling the pressure cooker. This can result in a messy and unevenly cooked pie. To avoid this, make sure to leave enough space between the filling and the pastry to allow for even cooking.

Another mistake to avoid is not cooking the pie long enough. This can result in an undercooked or raw filling. To avoid this, make sure to cook the pie according to the recipe instructions and check that the filling is hot and the pastry is golden brown.