Southern-Style Chicken Pot Pie – Comfort Food with a Whole Lotta Love
There’s just something about a bubbling, golden chicken pot pie that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. This Southern-Style Chicken Pot Pie is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy, savory filling—all tucked beneath a flaky, golden pastry lattice. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, forks in hand and hearts full.
And like any good Southern cook will tell you: we don’t measure seasonings—we feel them. We sprinkle and shake until the ancestors whisper, “That’s enough, baby.” But for those who need a little guidance, I’ve done my best to estimate the magic.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 6–8 hungry souls.
For the Filling
- 3 (16 oz) bags frozen vegetables
I used a mix of peas, carrots, and corn; an extra bag of corn (because we love it); and a cauliflower-broccoli blend. - 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for sautéing
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
Seasonings (Estimated)
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons Everything But the Bagel seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
Note: Season to taste—your ancestors will let you know when it’s right.
For the Crust
- 1 sheet store-bought pastry dough
Rolled out and cut into strips for a rustic lattice top.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- 13×9-inch casserole dish
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Pastry brush (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add cubed chicken and season with:
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon Everything But the Bagel seasoning
Sauté until the chicken is golden and cooked through—about 6–8 minutes.
Step 2: Prep the Veggies
While the chicken cooks, defrost your frozen vegetables.
You can microwave them or let them sit at room temperature until thawed.
Once thawed, combine the veggies with the cooked chicken in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
Add the remaining seasoning:
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1½ teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Everything But the Bagel seasoning
- 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Assemble
Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and veggies.
Stir until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the filling to a 13×9-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
Step 5: Add the Crust
Roll out your pastry dough and cut into strips.
Lay the strips over the filling in a lattice pattern, or simply cover the top entirely and cut slits for steam to escape.
Optional: Brush the crust with a little milk or egg wash for a golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Time & Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Calories: ~480 kcal per serving (approximate)
Tips & Variations
- Make it ahead: Assemble the pie and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Add cheese: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar for extra richness.
- Go crustless: Skip the pastry and top with mashed potatoes for a shepherd’s pie twist.
- Freeze it: Wrap tightly and freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chicken Pot Pie is more than just a meal—it’s a memory in the making. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth, your table with laughter, and your heart with comfort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something cozy, this recipe is a keeper.