Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Basil Biscuit Chicken Pot Pie?
It is a comforting casserole featuring a hearty filling of diced chicken, red potatoes, and mixed vegetables in chicken stock, topped with homemade basil-infused biscuits.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before preparing the ingredients.
What size casserole dish is recommended?
The recipe specifies using an 8 x 8 casserole dish to spread the chicken mixture evenly.
Can I use whole wheat flour for the biscuits?
Yes, the recipe allows for either all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour to be used for the biscuit topping.
How much cooked chicken is needed?
You will need 2 cups of cooked chicken, which should be diced before mixing.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 red potatoes, diced into small pieces.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use either 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil or 2 teaspoons of dried basil leaves.
Which herbs are used to season the filling?
The filling is seasoned with sage, parsley, and celery salt.
What type of mixed vegetables are suggested?
The recipe suggests 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, specifically a blend of peas, carrots, corn, and beans.
How do I combine the shortening with the flour?
Cut the shortening into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
How many times should I knead the biscuit dough?
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it gently for 20 to 25 turns, taking care not to over-knead.
How thick should the biscuit dough be rolled?
Roll or pat the dough until it reaches a thickness of 1/2 inch before placing it over the filling.
What is the purpose of the egg in this recipe?
One slightly beaten egg is used to brush the biscuit topping to create a beautiful golden-brown finish.
How long does the pot pie take to bake?
Bake the pot pie in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes.
How do I know when the dish is ready?
It is done when the biscuit topping is golden brown and the chicken filling is bubbling.
Is the sugar in the biscuits mandatory?
No, the 1 tablespoon of sugar is listed as optional for the biscuit dough.
What should the dough consistency be like?
After adding water, the dough should be moist but not sticky.
Do I need to let the pot pie rest after baking?
Yes, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to help the filling set.
How much chicken stock is used?
The recipe requires 1 3/4 cups of chicken stock for the filling.
What role does powdered milk play?
Powdered milk is mixed into the dry biscuit ingredients to add richness and color to the dough.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, using rotisserie chicken is a great way to provide the 2 cups of cooked diced chicken required.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 19 ingredients total, including items for both the filling and the biscuit topping.
What is used to thicken the pot pie filling?
A 1/2 cup of flour is mixed into the chicken and vegetable mixture to help thicken the stock as it bakes.
Is the onion cooked before being added to the filling?
No, the chopped onion is mixed raw with the other filling ingredients and cooks while the dish bakes.
How much baking powder is needed for the biscuits?
The recipe calls for 3 teaspoons of baking powder to ensure the biscuits rise and become light and flaky.
What type of pepper is best?
The recipe suggests 1/2 teaspoon of cracked black pepper for the biscuit dough.
How much shortening is used in the biscuit topping?
You will need 1/4 cup of shortening to achieve the correct biscuit texture.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this casserole-style dish is excellent for families and the leftovers can be reheated for a cozy meal later.
What makes the biscuit topping savory?
The combination of fresh or dried basil, salt, and cracked black pepper gives the topping its savory flavor.
Is this pot pie easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that combines traditional flavors with a twist, perfect for home cooks.