Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food. Creamy filling, tender chicken, and flaky crust – what’s not to love? But sometimes, the lengthy preparation time can be a deterrent. Enter Ree Drummond, AKA The Pioneer Woman, with her super speedy 16-minute Chicken Pot Pie.
Drummond, known for her down-home cooking and approachable recipes, has cracked the code on quick and delicious meals. Her 16-minute chicken pot pie utilizes store-bought ingredients like refrigerated biscuit dough and rotisserie chicken, minimizing prep time without sacrificing flavor. While some purists might argue that a truly authentic pot pie requires homemade crust and slow-cooked chicken, Drummond’s recipe offers a brilliant solution for those seeking a satisfying meal on busy weeknights.
The Magic of Shortcuts
Drummond’s ingenious use of shortcuts doesn’t mean compromising on taste. The rotisserie chicken provides perfectly cooked shreds while the canned cream of chicken soup delivers that rich, savory base we love in pot pie filling. Frozen peas and carrots add freshness and color, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top brings everything together beautifully.
The Power of Biscuit Dough
Perhaps the most ingenious shortcut is using refrigerated biscuit dough for the crust. This eliminates the need for rolling out pastry and blind-baking – time savers that many home cooks appreciate. Simply separate the biscuits, flatten them slightly, and arrange them over the filling. As they bake, the biscuits puff up and create a golden brown, craggy crust that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Beyond the Basics: Customization is Key
While Drummond’s recipe is fantastic as is, there are endless possibilities for customization. For those who prefer a thinner filling, a touch of chicken broth can be added. Feeling adventurous? Swap out the canned soup for homemade gravy for an even richer flavor. You could also add diced potatoes, mushrooms or other vegetables to your liking.
Drummond’s 16-minute chicken pot pie is a testament to the fact that delicious food doesn’t have to involve hours in the kitchen. By cleverly utilizing store-bought ingredients and streamlining the process, she empowers even the busiest home cooks to enjoy this classic dish without sacrificing taste or quality.
So, grab your rotisserie chicken, biscuit dough, and get ready for a fast and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a new weeknight favorite.
What are some of your favorite time-saving cooking hacks? Do you have any go-to recipes for busy weeknights?
