Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mini Chicken Pot Pies?
Mini Chicken Pot Pies are individual-sized comfort meals featuring a creamy filling of chicken and vegetables inside a golden pizza dough crust.
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
You should use diced cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken or leftovers work perfectly for this preparation.
What kind of crust is used for these mini pies?
This recipe uses frozen pizza dough that has been thawed, though homemade pizza dough can also be used.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius.
How long do the mini chicken pot pies need to bake?
They should bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust reaches a golden brown color.
What vegetables are included in the filling?
The filling includes canned mushrooms, sweet corn, and diced potatoes.
Do the potatoes need to be cooked beforehand?
Yes, the potatoes should be parboiled or fully cooked before being mixed with the other ingredients.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This specific recipe is designed to yield 3 individual servings.
What equipment do I need to bake these in?
You will need small Pyrex bowls or oven-safe ramekins and a cookie sheet to catch any drips.
How do I prepare the dough for the bowls?
Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thickness and use a round cutter to create circles large enough to fit the bowls with some overhang.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as a substitute if desired.
Should I drain the mushrooms and corn?
Yes, ensure that both the mushrooms and the corn are well-drained before adding them to the mixing bowl.
How do I seal the top of the pot pie?
Fold the overhanging dough over the top of the filling and pinch the edges to seal or create a decorative fold.
Can I add extra seasonings?
The recipe calls for salt and pepper to taste, but you can also add herbs like thyme or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, these individual portions are very popular with children and are fun for them to eat.
Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen corn; just ensure it is thawed or cooked before mixing.
Why should I put the bowls on a cookie sheet?
The cookie sheet catches any potential drips or spills from the bubbling filling during the baking process.
How long should the pies cool before serving?
Allow the pies to cool for a few minutes to let the filling set and to avoid burns from the steam.
Can I customize the vegetable selection?
Absolutely, you can add peas, carrots, or any of your favorite vegetables to the chicken mixture.
How thick should the pizza dough be?
The dough should be rolled out to approximately 1/4 inch thick to prevent it from tearing while lining the bowls.
Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes, puff pastry is a great alternative that will result in a flakier, lighter crust.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking to the surface?
Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to ensure it doesn't stick or tear.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in the oven or an air fryer is recommended to keep the crust from becoming too soft.
Can I use raw chicken if I cook it longer?
It is recommended to use pre-cooked chicken to ensure it is safely and evenly cooked within the 30-minute baking window.
Do I need to grease the Pyrex bowls?
While pizza dough is generally easy to remove, a light coating of cooking spray can help ensure the crust doesn't stick.
Can I make this as one large pie?
Yes, you can use the same ingredients in a standard pie dish, though baking times may vary.
What should I serve with these pot pies?
A light side salad or steamed green beans complements the hearty flavors of the pot pies perfectly.
Can I freeze these after baking?
Yes, allow them to cool completely, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to three months.
Is the crust on the bottom of the bowl too?
Yes, the instructions suggest pressing the dough circle into the bowl so it covers the bottom and the sides.