Name: Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked, diced chicken breast, seasoned; 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon plant-based butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup chicken broth (natural); 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose or pastry flour; 1/2 cup cold plant-based butter, cut into small pieces; 3-4 tablespoons ice-cold water; Pinch of salt; Additional plant-based butter for brushing tops; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Smoked paprika (natural) for dusting

If you crave comfort food that’s both delicious and easy to handle, these Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust will quickly become your new favorite. Filled with tender seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and wrapped in a buttery plant-based crust, they are the ultimate cozy meal that you can enjoy anytime. Imagine biting into a warm, flaky pocket bursting with savory goodness—pure comfort food made simple and delightful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe ideal for any skill level.
Perfectly Portable: These handheld pies are great for lunches, picnics, or quick dinners on the go.
Flavor-Packed Filling: The chicken and vegetable mix is seasoned just right for a comforting taste in every bite.
Buttery Flaky Crust: The plant-based crust is golden and crisp, creating the perfect texture contrast.
Customizable: Easy to adjust ingredients to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simple, essential ingredients that come together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a role, from tender chicken pieces to the flaky crust that holds everything perfectly.

Chicken breast: Cooked and seasoned for tender, juicy bites inside the pie.
Mixed vegetables: A colorful medley like carrots, peas, and corn for sweetness and freshness.
Onion and garlic: Aromatics that build the foundation of savory flavor.
Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural): Adds a rich, tangy depth to the filling.
Chicken broth (natural): Moistens the filling and infuses a cozy, umami-rich taste.
Flour: Thickens the filling, giving it a creamy consistency without being runny.
Plant-based butter: For richness in both the filling and the crust.
All-purpose flour or pastry flour: For crafting that flaky crust everyone loves.
Cold water: Helps bind the crust perfectly when mixed with flour and plant-based butter.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance natural flavors.

Variations for Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust

This recipe invites creativity! Whether you want to add a twist or cater to different dietary preferences, there are ample ways to make it your own.

Veggie-packed: Use more mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for an extra dose of greens.
Spiced up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Cheesy delight: Incorporate shredded plant-based cheddar for a melty, rich surprise.
Comfort with smoked turkey slices: Swap some chicken for smoked turkey slices for a smoky flavor infusion.
Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free flour blend with natural gelling agent for the crust to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Easy Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust

How to Make Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by sautéing finely chopped onion and garlic in plant-based butter until translucent and fragrant. Add diced cooked chicken breast, then stir in the mixed vegetables. Sprinkle the flour over the contents to create a thickened base, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), allowing the mixture to simmer until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika to enhance the warm flavors.

Step 2: Make the Flaky Crust

Combine all-purpose pastry flour with cold plant-based butter pieces in a bowl, gently rubbing them together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water just enough to bind the dough into a smooth ball. Chill the dough wrapped in parchment in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to develop flakiness.

Step 3: Assemble the Pies

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to roughly 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into even circles or squares depending on your preferred shape. Spoon the chicken pot pie filling onto one half, leaving room at the edges. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, then press the edges firmly with a fork to seal. Lightly brush the tops with a touch of plant-based butter for that glossy finish.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the pies on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crisp. Let them cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to settle perfectly inside.

Pro Tips for Making Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust

Keep ingredients cold: Chilled plant-based butter and water ensure a flaky crust texture.
Don’t overfill: Leave enough space at the edges for sealing and to avoid filling leakage.
Even rolling: Roll the dough evenly for uniform baking and consistent flakiness.
Use fresh herbs: Thyme or rosemary brighten the filling’s flavor beautifully.
Rest before baking: Allow pies to chill for a few minutes to firm up seals and prevent shrinking.

How to Serve Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of smoked paprika on top of each pie adds a fresh visual pop and enhances aroma just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your handheld pies with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy grape juice vinaigrette or serve with roasted root vegetables for a hearty, nourishing meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the pies on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for casual entertaining, or stack several with dipping sauces like a creamy plant-based mushroom gravy on the side for added indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap your pies individually in foil or airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked pies on a tray until firm, transfer to freezer-safe bags, and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to usual baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their flaky crust and warm filling—avoid microwaving to keep the crust crisp.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken adds convenience and perfectly suits the filling’s texture and flavor.

Is it possible to make a dairy-free crust?

Yes, this recipe already uses plant-based butter for the crust, making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.

How can I make these pies ahead for a busy week?

Prepare and assemble the pies in advance, freeze them, and bake fresh as needed for quick, delicious meals.

Can I substitute other vegetables in the filling?

Yes, feel free to swap in vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or mushrooms depending on your preference.

What’s the best way to prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Ensuring the filling isn’t too watery and refrigerating the pies before baking helps maintain a crispy, flaky crust.

Final Thoughts

These Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust are a cozy, tasty way to bring comfort to your table without fuss. Whether for a quick lunch, family dinner, or snack on the go, their flaky, buttery crust combined with savory chicken and veggies delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved favorite in so many kitchens!

Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with Flaky Crust

Author: Brian
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6 handheld pies 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Handheld Chicken Pot Pies with a buttery, flaky plant-based crust filled with tender seasoned chicken and fresh vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy meal on the go, with a rich, creamy filling balanced by a golden crisp crust.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic in plant-based butter over medium heat until translucent and fragrant. Add the diced cooked chicken breast and mixed vegetables. Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture and stir constantly to form a thickened base. Gradually pour in chicken broth and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce while stirring, allowing the filling to simmer and thicken to a creamy consistency. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Make the Flaky Crust: In a large bowl, combine pastry flour and a pinch of salt. Add cold plant-based butter pieces and rub gently between fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough just comes together into a smooth ball. Wrap dough in parchment paper and chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Assemble the Pies: Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into even circles or squares based on preference. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half of each dough piece, leaving edges free for sealing. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling, then press edges firmly with a fork to seal securely. Brush tops lightly with plant-based butter for a glossy finish.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pies on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden and crisp. Allow pies to cool slightly before serving to let filling settle.

Notes

Keep ingredients cold, especially plant-based butter and water, to ensure a flaky crust texture.
Do not overfill pies; leave space at edges to properly seal and prevent leakage.
Roll dough evenly to promote uniform baking and consistent flakiness.
Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to brighten the filling’s flavor.
Allow assembled pies to rest briefly before baking to firm up seals and minimize shrinking.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American