Chicken pot pie with crescent rolls

Introduction

There’s something magical about comfort food. It wraps you in a warm hug, transports you back to cozy family dinners, and makes even the chilliest of evenings feel just right. For me, Chicken Pot Pie is that dish—it’s hearty, creamy, and packed with flavors that never fail to bring a smile to my face. But let’s be honest: as much as I love a traditional pot pie with its flaky, homemade crust, there are days when I just don’t have the time (or energy) to make dough from scratch.

That’s where crescent rolls come in to save the day. These buttery, flaky little lifesavers turn an otherwise time-consuming dish into a quick and easy dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, using crescent rolls adds a fun, slightly sweet twist to the classic savory filling that makes this dish irresistible.

Whether you’re using up leftover chicken from last night’s roast or looking for a new family favorite, this Chicken Pot Pie with Crescent Rolls is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: No need to fuss over making a crust from scratch. The crescent rolls take care of that, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. The creamy filling and buttery crust are a combo no one can resist.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Got leftover chicken or turkey from a previous meal? This is the perfect way to give it new life.
• Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s warm, creamy, and packed with savory goodness. Just what you need after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to adapt based on what you have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

• 3 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps soften the veggies.
• 1 medium onion, chopped – Sweet and savory, it forms the flavor base.
• 2 stalks celery, chopped – Adds a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
• 2 medium carrots, chopped – For a hint of sweetness and color.
• 1/2 cup frozen peas – They add a pop of color and a burst of freshness.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Because everything’s better with garlic!
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken or turkey – Perfect for leftovers or rotisserie chicken from the store.

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling to that perfect creamy consistency.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth – The base of the sauce, adding depth of flavor.
• 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half – For that extra creamy, luscious texture.

Seasonings:

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds a warm, herbal note.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley – Brings a fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning – The secret to that classic pot pie taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra layer of garlicky goodness.
• Pepper to taste – A little kick to balance the creaminess.

For the Crust:

• 1 (8 oz) tube of crescent rolls – The star of the show! Buttery, flaky, and ready to go.

Optional Add-Ins:

Shredded cheese: If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some in the filling for a cheesy twist.

Mushrooms: For a more earthy flavor.

Corn or green beans: Great for adding more veggies.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Spray a large baking dish—either a deep-dish pie plate or an 11×7-inch pan—with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside. This will make cleanup a breeze later!

2. Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter until it’s bubbling and fragrant. Add the onion, celery, carrots, and peas to the pan. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and the kitchen smells amazing. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant.

3. Add the Chicken
Toss in the shredded chicken (or turkey, if you’re using leftovers) and give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors.

4. Make the Sauce
Now it’s time to thicken things up! Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and veggies. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for about 2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste.

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly. The mixture will start to thicken after about 2-3 minutes. Once it’s looking creamy, add in the thyme, parsley, seasoned salt, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and a little pepper to taste. Stir it all together.

Finally, pour in the heavy cream and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is thick and creamy. At this point, your filling should be rich, savory, and hard to resist sneaking a taste!

5. Assemble the Pot Pie
Pour the creamy filling into your prepared baking dish. Now comes the fun part—the crescent rolls! Open the tube and carefully lay the dough over the top of the filling. You can either separate the triangles and overlap them slightly for a rustic look or keep the dough in sheets for a smooth, even crust.

Tip: If you’re using a deep-dish pie plate and overlapping the crescent rolls in the center, make sure the middle cooks through. You might need to add an extra 2-3 minutes in the oven.

6. Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 14-16 minutes until the crescent rolls are a beautiful golden brown and cooked all the way through. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning.

7. Let It Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the pot pie cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to scoop out those delicious servings.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie

1. Use Leftovers Wisely: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, especially after a big holiday meal. Rotisserie chicken from the store works great too!
2. Ensure Even Cooking: If you’re overlapping crescent rolls in the center, make sure to check that the dough in the middle is fully cooked before removing it from the oven. You can cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly, and give the center a few extra minutes.
3. Customize Your Veggies: Don’t have fresh veggies on hand? Frozen mixed vegetables work just as well. You can also toss in mushrooms, green beans, or corn for extra flavor.
4. Make It Ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add the crescent rolls right before popping it in the oven.
5. Keep It Creamy: If the filling seems too thick after cooking, add a splash more chicken broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

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Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Pot Pie with Crescent Rolls is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, here are some tasty ideas:

Crusty Bread: If you’re a carb lover (like me!), serve with some warm, crusty bread to soak up any extra filling.

Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the rich, creamy pot pie.

Roasted Veggies: Roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus pair perfectly.

Storing and Reheating: Keeping the Leftovers Delicious

Proper storage is key to enjoying leftover chicken pot pie with crescent rolls. Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating it. Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.

When ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Microwaving is an option, though it may impact the crust’s texture. Place a single slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, checking often.

For long-term storage, freezing is effective. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. To enjoy later, thaw in the fridge overnight, and bake as you would for reheating. These methods ensure your pot pie stays delicious over time.

Customizing Your Chicken pot pie : Variations and Substitutions

One of the joys of making chicken pot pie with crescent rolls is its versatility. You can tailor it to fit various tastes and dietary needs. Start by experimenting with the filling ingredients to change the flavor profile.

Vegetarian versions are easily achieved by swapping chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas. For a healthier twist, consider using turkey instead of chicken to reduce calories while keeping the protein high.

For a spicier dish, add peppers or a dash of hot sauce. Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor, providing a more gourmet experience. You can always mix and match to create your unique version.

Here’s a quick list of variations to consider:

• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
• Turkey: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken.
• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes.
• Herbal: Integrate fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Additionally, the crescent rolls themselves offer room for creativity. Consider using flavored crescent rolls, like garlic or herb-infused, to complement the filling. Whether you’re customizing for diet or flavor, this dish molds to your preferences beautifully. Enjoy the process of making it truly your own!

If you’re looking for more crescent roll ideas, check out this guide on how to make breakfast pizza with crescent rolls. With their ready-to-use convenience, crescent rolls bring a modern twist to the classic pot pie while keeping everything you love about it intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Add the crescent roll crust right before baking to ensure the crust remains flaky.

What if I don’t have crescent rolls?

You can substitute with puff pastry or pie crust if needed. Each option offers a unique texture and flavor, expanding your pot pie experience.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

To avoid sogginess, pre-bake the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the filling. This step helps it stay crisp while baking.

Can I freeze chicken pot pie?

Yes, you can freeze it either fully assembled or in parts. If freezing the entire pie, wrap tightly and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes.

What sides pair well with pot pie?

Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Their freshness complements the richness of the pot pie, balancing the meal beautifully.

Conclusion

Chicken pot pie with crescent rolls combines ease and deliciousness in one dish. This recipe offers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction for every occasion.

Let crescent roll pot pie become your family favorite. Enjoy the comfort it brings, and experiment with variations to suit your palate.