Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping, these mini pies offer a savory filling encased in a flaky crust. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to enjoy any time of day. With a blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce, these Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These muffins come together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Perfect Portions: Individual servings mean everyone gets their own pie with no fuss.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Great for Freezing: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for later enjoyment.
• Kid-Friendly: These mini pies are not only delicious but also fun for kids to eat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything prepared will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Saucepan
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping your pies into perfect portions that bake evenly.
• Saucepan: Used for cooking the filling ingredients together, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough uniformly so that it fits nicely in the muffin cups.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients seamlessly before filling the muffin tins.

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Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

• 1 batch of pie crust

For the Filling

• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast halves – cubed
• ¾ cup chopped carrots
• ¾ cup chopped potato
• ¾ cup fresh green beans cut into 1 or 2 inch pieces
• ⅓ cup butter
• ⅓ cup chopped onion
• ½ cup fresh or frozen corn
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Other spices to taste (garlic, celery seed etc.)
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 1 to 1½ cups milk

How to Make Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). This ensures that your pies will bake evenly and become golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables

In a saucepan, combine cubed chicken, chopped carrots, potatoes, and green beans.
* Add enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients.
* Bring to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes.
* Remove from heat and drain while saving the chicken broth. Stir in corn and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same saucepan over medium heat:
* Melt butter and cook chopped onions until soft and translucent.
* Stir in all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
* Gradually add 1¾ cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk while stirring continuously.
* Simmer over medium-low heat until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Filling with Sauce

Mix the chicken mixture with the sauce you just created.
* If it seems too thick or not saucy enough, gradually add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

Divide your pie crust dough into thirds; each third should yield four rounds.
* Roll each round out until it’s large enough to fit into a muffin tin with about half an inch hanging over.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tins

Place rolled dough into each muffin tin cup.
* Generously fill each with your chicken mixture; you want it to dome slightly at the top.

Step 7: Top Each Pie

Roll out remaining rounds of dough and lay them on top of each filled tin.
* Press edges together firmly then trim off excess dough.
* Pinch edges using your fingers or a knife back to create a seal.

Step 8: Bake

Brush tops with an egg wash or some milk if desired. Cut slits in each pie for steam release.
Bake at 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and crisp on top.

Enjoy your delicious Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies!

How to Serve Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are delightful, portable servings that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, these mini pot pies can be served in various ways to enhance the experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pot pies.

Offer with Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that balances the soft filling of the pies.

Include Seasonal Vegetables

• Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing the meal’s overall presentation.

Accompany with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide an extra layer of comfort and pair wonderfully with the savory filling.

Present with Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or herb-infused oils for people to add their favorite flavors.

How to Perfect Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Creating the perfect Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies can elevate your dish from good to spectacular. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out beautifully.

• Use homemade pie crust: A fresh pie crust enhances flavor and texture compared to store-bought options.
• Season generously: Don’t shy away from adding spices beyond salt and pepper; fresh herbs or garlic powder can elevate the taste.
• Adjust filling consistency: If your filling is too thick, add extra chicken broth or milk gradually until it reaches your desired sauciness.
• Pre-bake crusts slightly: Baking the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding filling helps prevent sogginess.
• Allow cooling time: Letting them cool slightly after baking allows for easier handling and prevents burns when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are hearty on their own but pairing them with side dishes can create a more complete meal. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant and nutritious side that adds fiber while balancing the richness of the pies.
2. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, this low-carb alternative works well to soak up any extra gravy from your pot pies.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy texture and slightly bitter flavor provide a nice contrast to the savory pies.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and a touch of sweetness, making it a refreshing partner.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with herbs can bring an additional healthful aspect to your meal.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory pot pie flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Overfilling the pies – If you add too much filling, it can spill over during baking. To avoid this, leave some space at the top of each pie.

• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or chicken can affect the texture of your crust and filling. Allow ingredients to reach room temperature before use.

• Neglecting seasoning – A bland filling can ruin your pot pies. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, adding spices like garlic or celery seed for extra flavor.

• Not sealing the edges properly – If the edges aren’t sealed well, your filling can leak out. Be sure to pinch and seal the dough edges firmly before baking.

• Baking at incorrect temperatures – Ensure your oven is preheated correctly. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to undercooked or burnt pies.

• Skipping the slits in the top crust – Not cutting slits for steam can cause your pies to burst. Always remember to cut a few slits in the top before baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions you might have about Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies:

Can I use different vegetables in Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies?

You can absolutely customize your pot pies! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.

How do I prevent soggy crusts?

To avoid soggy crusts, ensure that your filling isn’t too watery. Simmer it down if necessary before adding it into the pastry shells.

Are Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies kid-friendly?

Yes! These mini pot pies are perfect for kids. They are easy to hold and packed with flavor that appeals to all ages.

Can I make Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare them and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just follow proper storage guidelines mentioned above.

What is the best way to serve Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies?

These pot pies are great served warm right from the oven. Pair them with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different proteins and vegetables based on your preferences. They make a great meal option for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting dish that everyone will love!