Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie with Crispy Puff Pastry

Craving a comforting, homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen? This Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie with Crispy Puff Pastry delivers tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy sauce all under a golden, flaky crust — perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie

This pot pie is the ultimate weeknight comfort food because it’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly quick to make. The filling balances tender chicken, sweet peas, and aromatic vegetables with a creamy, lightly lemon‑kissed sauce. Topped with store‑bought puff pastry, it bakes into a beautifully golden, flaky crust that makes the dish feel indulgent without the fuss. Every bite combines crisp pastry, creamy filling, and fresh herbs for a cozy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients for Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie

Filling Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large leek, thinly sliced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Zest of ½ lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Topping

• 1 sheet store-bought puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken: Both breasts and thighs work; thighs stay juicier if overcooked slightly.
• Leeks: Rinse thoroughly to remove sand and grit.
• Puff Pastry: Can substitute with pie crust if preferred; will be less flaky but still delicious.
• Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk with 1 tsp cornstarch.
• Herbs & Zest: Lemon zest brightens the rich filling, making it less heavy for weeknight meals.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Chicken

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2 – Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add leek, carrots, and celery.
2. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add garlic and thyme, cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3 – Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
2. Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer until thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest.

Step 4 – Combine Filling

1. Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Add frozen peas and mix gently to combine.
3. Transfer filling to an oven-safe baking dish, spreading evenly.

Step 5 – Add Puff Pastry

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry slightly to fit the baking dish and lay over the filling.
3. Trim excess pastry, then brush the top with beaten egg.

Step 6 – Bake

1. Bake in preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until pastry is golden and puffed.
2. Let the pot pie rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Pro Tips for Success

• Even Baking: Make a few small slits in the puff pastry to allow steam to escape.
• Crispier Crust: Brush edges lightly with water before egg wash for extra shine.
• Make Ahead: Prepare filling a day in advance; add puff pastry and bake on serving day.
• Vegetable Swap: Substitute seasonal veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.
• Check Thickness: If sauce is too thin, simmer a few extra minutes before adding peas.
• Herb Boost: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top after baking for color and fresh flavor.

Flavor Variations

• Garlic & Parmesan: Mix 2 tbsp grated Parmesan into the filling for a richer taste.
• Herbed Chicken: Add ½ tsp rosemary and sage for a more aromatic pot pie.
• Spicy Twist: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle shredded cheddar over filling before adding pastry for cheesy goodness.
• Lemon-Thyme Variation: Increase lemon zest to 1 tsp for a brighter flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad and a simple vinaigrette.
• Pair with roasted seasonal vegetables for a heartier meal.
• A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Assemble the filling and freeze without puff pastry for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen by covering with pastry and adding extra 5–10 minutes to baking time.
• Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave or oven until heated through; 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes works well.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	410
Protein	30 g
Carbs	28 g
Fat	22 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	560 mg

FAQ About Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it at Step 4 with the peas, and reduce initial cooking time since the chicken is already cooked.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, substitute chicken with diced tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms or other hearty vegetables to boost flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the fully baked pot pie?

You can, but the puff pastry may lose some crispiness. For best results, freeze the filling separately and add fresh puff pastry when ready to bake.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Make sure to pre-thicken the filling, add small slits to puff pastry for steam release, and bake until golden. Letting the pot pie rest for 5 minutes also helps set the filling.

Can I use a different pastry?

Pie crust or phyllo dough can be used as a substitute. Pie crust will be slightly denser, while phyllo adds a delicate, layered texture.

Final Thoughts

This Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie with Crispy Puff Pastry is a comforting, versatile, and quick dinner option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, a creamy sauce, and golden puff pastry, it’s perfect for busy nights or cozy weekends. Make it your own with herbs, spices, or seasonal vegetables and enjoy a timeless family favorite that’s always a crowd-pleaser.