Chicken Pot Pie in Phyllo Pastry: A Comforting, Flaky Delight

Chicken pot pie in phyllo pastry is one of those meals that just warms you up from the inside out. It’s a staple in many households, thanks to its hearty filling and comforting flavors. Traditionally, chicken pot pie is made with a buttery, flaky pie crust, but there’s another version that elevates the dish to new heightsb chicken pot pie in phyllo pastry. Phyllo dough, with its delicate, paper-thin layers, creates a beautifully crisp and light top to the creamy filling, giving you the best of both worlds.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into creating the perfect chicken pot pie in phyllo pastry, providing step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks, along with answering common questions to ensure your pie comes out perfectly every time. Along the way, we’ll link to a few related recipes from our blog that pair well with this dish, so make sure to check those out for some meal-planning inspiration.

Ingredients and Equipment You’ll Need

Before we get into the details of assembling this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

2 cups cooked chicken (leftovers work great!)
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced potatoes
1 cup frozen peas
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 ½ cups chicken broth
½ cup milk or cream
Salt and pepper to taste
½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Phyllo Pastry:

1 package phyllo dough, thawed (about 20 sheets)
½ cup melted butter for brushing between layers

Equipment:

Large skillet or saucepan
9-inch pie dish or baking dish
Pastry brush
Damp towel (to keep the phyllo from drying out)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Pot Pie in Phyllo Pastry

1. Prepare the Filling

The heart of any Chicken Pot Pie in Phyllo Pastry is the filling, and this one is no exception. In this version, we’ll maintain the creamy richness of a classic chicken pot pie while lightening up the crust with phyllo dough.

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes. Next, add the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes to give the vegetables a head start.

Once the veggies are softened, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to coat everything evenly. This step ensures your filling thickens properly without clumping. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. After the broth has been added, stir in the milk (or cream, if you prefer a richer filling), and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Add the shredded chicken and frozen peas to the skillet, along with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. The key here is to make sure the filling is not too runny—phyllo dough is delicate, and too much liquid can make it soggy.

Set the filling aside to cool while you prepare the phyllo pastry.

2. Work with the Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough is an excellent alternative to traditional pie crust for a few reasons. Its paper-thin layers create a crispy texture, and it’s lower in fat than a traditional buttery crust. However, it does require a bit of care when handling, as it dries out quickly. Keep the phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent them from becoming brittle.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your pie dish or baking dish with melted butter to prevent sticking.

Begin layering the phyllo dough by placing one sheet into the greased dish and brushing it with melted butter. Repeat this process with 6-8 sheets, brushing each with butter before adding the next layer. The phyllo sheets should overlap the edges of the dish, as you’ll fold them over later to encase the filling.

3. Assemble the Pot Pie

Once your phyllo base is ready, spoon the cooled chicken filling into the dish, spreading it evenly. Fold the overhanging phyllo dough over the filling. If you prefer, you can use a few additional sheets of phyllo on top for extra flakiness. Layer 4-6 more sheets of phyllo dough on top of the pie, brushing each one with butter, and tuck the edges into the sides of the dish.

Using a sharp knife, score the top of the pie to create ventilation slits, which will allow steam to escape and help the phyllo crisp up during baking.

4. Bake and Serve

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the phyllo dough is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are beautifully puffed and the top has a golden hue.

Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This gives the filling time to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

For a complete meal, serve this chicken pot pie with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables. You could even complement the crispy phyllo with something sweet for dessert, such as our Easy Grinch Cake Recipe, which is a hit at any gathering.

Why Phyllo Dough? A Healthier, Crispier Alternative

While a traditional buttery pie crust is undeniably delicious, phyllo dough offers a lighter, flakier alternative that’s equally satisfying. Here are a few reasons why you should consider using phyllo for your next pot pie:

Crisp Texture: The multiple thin layers of phyllo create an airy, crispy topping that’s the perfect contrast to the creamy chicken filling inside.
Lower in Fat: Phyllo dough is typically lower in fat than a traditional pie crust, especially when you brush it with a controlled amount of butter or olive oil.
Versatility: You can use phyllo in both savory and sweet dishes, making it a pantry staple for adventurous home cooks. Try it in appetizers, like spanakopita, or desserts, like baklava.
Healthier Option: If you’re looking to lighten up your meals, swapping the traditional pie crust for phyllo is a great option. It’s an easy way to cut down on calories without sacrificing texture.

Pairing Suggestions and Sides

Chicken pot pie is a meal in itself, but it’s always nice to have some complementary sides to round out the dinner table. Here are a few ideas for pairing your chicken pot pie with phyllo pastry:

Green Beans with Almonds: A light, crispy green bean dish would contrast nicely with the creamy filling of the pot pie.
Roasted Vegetables: For something heartier, roasted root vegetables or brussels sprouts will complement the chicken and vegetables in the pot pie.
A Simple Side Salad: Keep it fresh with a crisp, lightly dressed green salad. Arugula or spinach with a lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the filling.
Dessert: If you want to finish your meal on a festive note, consider making our Hamburger, Green Beans, Tomato, and Potato Casserole. This hearty dish makes an excellent addition to any fall meal plan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen vegetables in my chicken pot pie?

Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the filling to avoid excess water, which can make the phyllo soggy.

2. Can I make this pot pie ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze chicken pot pie made with phyllo dough?

Yes, you can freeze it, but keep in mind that phyllo dough can lose some of its crispness after being frozen and reheated. For best results, bake the pie first, then freeze it. When reheating, place it in the oven until the filling is heated through and the phyllo dough becomes crispy again.

4. What can I serve with chicken pot pie?

In addition to the sides mentioned earlier, a glass of crisp white wine or a light beer complements the richness of the dish. If you’re looking for dessert ideas, our Easy Grinch Cake Recipe is a fun and festive choice for the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

Chicken pot pie in phyllo pastry offers a fresh twist on a beloved classic. The combination of creamy, savory filling and crisp, flaky phyllo dough makes for a comforting yet elevated dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making this for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it as part of a larger spread during the holidays, it’s sure to impress your guests.

If you’re looking for more recipes to accompany your pot pie, be sure to check out our blog. From sweet treats like the Easy Grinch Cake to hearty dishes like the Hamburger, Green Beans, Tomato, and Potato Casserole, you’ll find everything you need to create a full, delicious meal plan.

Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!