Easiest Ever Chicken Pot Pie in a Slow Cooker

Easiest Ever Chicken Pot Pie in a Slow Cooker

Hello, food lovers! Today I’m going to walk you through the easiest way to make Chicken Pot Pie in a Slow Cooker — a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days and family dinners. I’ll cover every angle: how to make it whole or in parts, temperature and timing, spices, calories, diet-friendly tips, alternative cooking methods, and more.

Ingredients for Easiest Ever Chicken Pot Pie

Basic Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough or puff pastry
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for warmth)

Preparing Chicken Pot Pie Whole and in Parts

Whole Chicken Version

Using a small whole chicken (3-4 lbs), I recommend seasoning it generously inside and out. Place it over the vegetable and broth mixture and let it slow-cook until fall-apart tender. Shred the meat right before serving.

Chicken Parts Version

Using pre-cut chicken breasts or thighs is faster and easier. Dice the raw chicken into chunks before adding to the slow cooker. It ensures even cooking and easier serving.

Cooking Temperature and Time Guide

Type of ChickenTemperature SettingCooking Time
Whole ChickenLow6-7 hours
Diced Chicken Breasts/ThighsLow4-5 hours

Always make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step-by-Step: How to Make Chicken Pot Pie in a Slow Cooker

Preparing the Filling

  1. In your slow cooker, combine diced onion, minced garlic, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, and all seasonings.
  2. Stir well to evenly coat everything.
  3. Add raw chicken (whole or diced) and nestle into the mixture.

Cooking

  • Set the slow cooker on Low.
  • For diced chicken: Cook for 4-5 hours.
  • For whole chicken: Cook for 6-7 hours.

Adding the “Pie” Topping

  • 30 minutes before the end, tear biscuit dough into pieces and place on top.
  • Cover again and cook until the biscuits are fluffy and fully cooked.

Alternatively, bake biscuit dough separately in the oven and serve alongside the pot pie filling for extra crispness.

Calories and Nutritional Information

  • Per Serving (about 1.5 cups with biscuit):
    • Calories: ~520 kcal
    • Protein: 30 g
    • Fat: 28 g
    • Carbohydrates: 38 g

How to Make a Diet-Friendly Chicken Pot Pie

When I want a lighter version, here’s what I do:

  • Replace heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk.
  • Use a lower-fat cream of chicken soup.
  • Swap biscuit dough for a light whole-wheat roll or skip the pastry entirely.
  • Focus on adding more vegetables for volume.

This diet-friendly version can reduce the calorie count to about 350 kcal per serving.

First Courses Made from Chicken Pot Pie

  • Chicken Pot Pie Soup:

Simply thin the pot pie mixture with extra chicken broth to create a creamy, comforting soup.

  • Mini Pot Pie Cups:

Use a muffin tin, fill with the chicken mixture, and top with a small piece of biscuit or pastry for individual starters.

Second Courses Made from Chicken Pot Pie

  • Traditional Bowl Service:

Serve a hearty ladle of the pot pie filling with a golden biscuit on top.

  • Pot Pie Casserole:

Transfer the slow-cooked filling to a baking dish, top with pastry, and bake at 375°F until golden.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Microwave

  • Heat cooked chicken pot pie filling in microwave-safe bowls.
  • Top with separately baked biscuits for best results.

Multicooker

  • Use the “Sauté” function to soften onions and garlic first.
  • Switch to “Slow Cook” mode and proceed as usual.

Skillet

  • Cook the chicken and vegetables in a deep skillet.
  • Top with refrigerated biscuit dough and bake at 375°F until golden.

Oven

  • Assemble all ingredients in a casserole dish.
  • Cover with pastry and bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes.

Clay Pots

  • Fill small clay pots with pot pie filling.
  • Cover with small rounds of pastry and bake until bubbly and golden.

Secrets to the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie

  • Always sauté aromatics: I sauté onions and garlic first when I have time. It adds depth of flavor.
  • Use biscuit toppings smartly: Sometimes I cook the biscuits separately to keep them fluffy and crisp.
  • Layer properly: Heavier ingredients like chicken go below, lighter ones like vegetables on top to avoid sogginess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze the filling (without biscuits) for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven. Add fresh biscuits when serving.

FAQ About Making Easiest Ever Chicken Pot Pie

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

From my experience, yes! I’ve often used leftover roasted chicken, adding it during the last hour of cooking.

Can I skip cream of chicken soup?

I sometimes replace it with a homemade roux of butter, flour, and milk if I want a cleaner flavor.

What if I don’t have biscuit dough?

I’ve improvised with puff pastry or even mashed potato topping for a shepherd’s pie twist.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! I often do, just make sure to dice them small so they cook evenly.

How do I avoid soggy biscuits?

On my experience, baking the biscuits separately ensures they stay crispy.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I use almond milk and dairy-free cream soups when cooking for dairy-free guests.

Can I add cheese to the pot pie?

Definitely! I sometimes sprinkle shredded cheddar over the filling for extra richness.

Should I stir during cooking?

I prefer not to stir too much; it keeps the chicken tender and prevents breaking the biscuits.

Can I cook on high setting?

I’ve tried it, but cooking on high often overcooks the edges and leaves the center too liquid.

How thick should the filling be?

I always aim for a thick, creamy filling; if it’s too thin, I add a cornstarch slurry at the end.

Can I make it spicy?

Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick.

How big should I cut the chicken pieces?

I dice chicken into 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Can I cook the biscuits on top without them getting soggy?

If using biscuits directly in the slow cooker, I leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes to vent moisture.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! I often shred rotisserie chicken and add it during the last hour to warm through.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Pot Pie?

I usually serve a crisp green salad or simple roasted vegetables alongside.