Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. These mini pies are perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. They combine tender chicken and fresh vegetables, all enveloped in a flaky crust that’s both cute and practical. You can make them ahead of time and freeze for later, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Portion Control – Each mini pie offers a satisfying serving size, making it easy to enjoy without overindulging.
• Kid-Friendly – The fun, bite-sized portions are perfect for little hands, making mealtime enjoyable for kids.
• Versatile Filling Options – Customize the filling with your favorite veggies or proteins, allowing for endless variations.
• Easy Meal Prep – Make a batch in advance and freeze them for quick dinners on busy nights.
• Crowd-Pleaser – These pot pies are sure to impress guests at any gathering with their charming presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies efficiently, gather some essential tools that will help you create these delightful mini meals.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin – This is crucial for shaping your pot pies into adorable, individual servings that bake evenly.
• Saucepan – Helps you cook the filling thoroughly while ensuring the flavors meld beautifully.
• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out the pie crust evenly, ensuring a perfect fit in the muffin tin.

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) so it’s ready when you’re finished preparing your pot pies.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine the cubed chicken, chopped carrots, potatoes, and green beans.
2. Add enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
3. Boil for about 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and drain while saving the chicken broth. Stir in corn and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and cook onions until soft and translucent.
2. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
3. Gradually whisk in 1¾ cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk.
4. Simmer over medium-low heat until thickened, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Mix together the chicken mixture with the sauce until well combined. If it appears too thick, add more broth or milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

1. Divide your pie crust dough into three sections; roll each section out to create four rounds.
2. Press each round into the muffin tin with about a half inch overhang.

Step 6: Add Filling

Spoon generous amounts of filling into each muffin tin cavity; let it dome slightly above the edges.

Step 7: Cover with Dough

Take your remaining dough circles and lay them on top of each filled muffin tin cavity. Press down gently around the edges to seal and trim any excess dough.

Step 8: Bake

Brush tops with egg wash or milk if desired. Cut slits into each pie for steam release. Bake at 425 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown 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 and versatile. They can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some suggestions to elevate your serving game.

Individual Plates

• Serve each muffin tin pie on its own plate for a personal touch. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for garnish.

Salad Accompaniment

• Pair with a refreshing garden salad. The crispness of lettuce and vegetables balances the richness of the pot pies.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli or spicy mustard, for a fun twist that adds flavor.

Family Style Platter

• Arrange multiple muffin tin pies on a large platter. This creates an inviting centerpiece for gatherings or family meals.

Chilled Beverages

• Serve with iced tea or lemonade. These beverages complement the savory flavors while keeping the meal refreshing.

How to Perfect Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Creating the perfect Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies takes attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure delicious results.

• Use cold ingredients: Cold butter and milk help create a flakier crust.
• Do not overfill: Leave some space at the top of each pie to allow for bubbling and expansion during baking.
• Rotate the pan: Halfway through baking, rotate the muffin tin for even cooking and browning.
• Let them cool: Allow the pies to cool slightly before serving; this helps set the filling.
• Experiment with spices: Customize the flavor by trying different herbs and spices according to your taste preference.

Best Side Dishes for Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add color and nutrition, providing a crunchy texture.
2. Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread offers a delicious way to soak up any gravy from the pot pies.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side that matches well with the savory filling.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that enhances the overall meal.
5. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the pot pies.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the flavors in chicken pot pie while adding a seasonal touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to steer clear of them.

• Using store-bought crust: While convenient, store-bought crusts may not hold up as well or taste as good as homemade. Make your own pie crust for the best results.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can dry it out. Boil just until cooked through, then drain and mix with other ingredients.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping spices can lead to bland flavors. Don’t be afraid to season generously and taste as you go.
• Filling too full: Overfilling your muffin tins can lead to messy pies. Aim for a generous dome but ensure there’s space for the top crust.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your pies a beautiful golden color. If you prefer not to use eggs, brush with milk or cream instead.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

• Allow the pies to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Cover with a lid and heat on low until warm, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies?

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are mini versions of traditional pot pies made in muffin tins, filled with chicken and vegetables in a delicious gravy.

Can I customize the filling for Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or adjust spices based on your preference. Try peas, mushrooms, or even swap out chicken for turkey.

How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?

Ensure your filling is not overly wet before adding it to the crust. You can also pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields approximately six servings of Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Yes! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in these pies and saves time during preparation.

Final Thoughts

Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies are not only delightful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite veggies or spices. Whether you’re serving them at dinner or enjoying leftovers, they are sure to please everyone at the table!