My Love for Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie has always been one of my favorite comfort foods. The creamy filling, the flaky pastry crust, and the savory combination of chicken and vegetables make it the perfect dish for any occasion. However, one thing that has always deterred me from making it at home is the cooking time. Traditional recipes often require hours of baking in the oven, and on busy days, I simply don’t have the time to wait.
That’s why I was thrilled to discover that you can actually microwave chicken pot pie! It’s a quick and easy alternative that doesn’t sacrifice the delicious flavors and textures of the classic dish. In this article, I will share with you my own tried-and-tested method of microwaving chicken pot pie, step by step.
Gathering Ingredients and Tools
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
Preparing the Chicken Pot Pie
If you’re using a frozen chicken pot pie, follow the instructions on the packaging for defrosting. Typically, you’ll need to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. However, if you’re short on time, you can use the defrost function on your microwave to speed up the process. Be sure to remove any plastic wrap or tin foil before microwaving.
If you’re making your own chicken pot pie, make sure it has cooled down completely before microwaving it. Hot steam can cause the pastry crust to become soggy, so it’s essential to let it cool down to room temperature first.
Choosing the Right Microwave-Safe Dish
To ensure that your chicken pot pie cooks evenly and thoroughly, it’s crucial to choose the right microwave-safe dish or bowl. Avoid using metal or aluminum containers, as they can cause sparks in the microwave. Instead, opt for a glass or ceramic dish that is specifically labeled as microwave-safe.
Make sure the dish is deep enough to hold the chicken pot pie without any spills or overflow. It’s better to choose a slightly larger dish than to risk having the filling spill over and make a mess in your microwave.
Microwaving the Chicken Pot Pie
Now that we have all the preparations in place, it’s time to start microwaving the chicken pot pie. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Place the chicken pot pie in the center of the microwave-safe dish or bowl.
2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate to trap the heat and steam inside.
3. Set your microwave oven to medium-high power or around 70-80% power. This will prevent the filling from boiling over or the crust from becoming too soggy.
4. Microwave the chicken pot pie for around 8-12 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave oven. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook or undercook.
5. After the initial cooking time, remove the dish from the microwave and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the filling to set and the crust to become flakier.
6. Carefully remove the cover, as hot steam will escape, and it can cause burns.
7. Check the internal temperature of the chicken pot pie using a food thermometer. It should register at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.
8. If the filling is not heated through or the crust is not golden brown, return the dish to the microwave for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serving and Enjoying the Chicken Pot Pie
Once your chicken pot pie is heated through and the crust is golden brown, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. Use oven mitts or kitchen towels to handle the hot dish and place it on a heat-resistant surface.
Serve the chicken pot pie directly from the dish, or gently slide a spatula under the crust to lift it onto a plate. Be careful as the filling and gravy may be piping hot.
I love to pair my chicken pot pie with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables, but you can enjoy it on its own or with your favorite sides.
Conclusion
Microwaving chicken pot pie is a quick and easy alternative to baking it in the oven. With the right techniques and tools, you can enjoy a delicious homemade chicken pot pie in a fraction of the time. Remember to follow the steps carefully, choose a microwave-safe dish, and check the internal temperature of the pie to ensure it’s fully cooked. So go ahead, give it a try, and indulge in the comfort of a warm and scrumptious chicken pot pie, even on your busiest days.