When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as satisfying as a warm and hearty chicken pot pie. The creamy filling, flaky crust, and rich flavors make it a favorite for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or chilly nights. But what if you’re avoiding dairy? No problem—this dairy-free chicken pot pie is here to save the day!
This recipe gives you all the goodness of the classic version without any dairy. Whether you’re lactose-intolerant, following a dairy-free lifestyle, or just looking for a lighter, healthier twist, this pot pie delivers everything you love. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with tender chicken and colorful vegetables, all wrapped in a golden, flaky crust.
Even better, it’s easy to make! With a few simple swaps and straightforward steps, you’ll have a homemade dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into how to make the ultimate dairy-free chicken pot pie.
Why You’ll Love This Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
A Classic Favorite, Remade Dairy-Free
- You don’t have to give up your favorite comfort food just because you’re avoiding dairy.
- This version keeps the creamy texture and rich flavors of the original but swaps out milk, cream, and butter for dairy-free alternatives.
- It’s perfect for anyone with lactose intolerance, dairy allergies, or those choosing a plant-based diet.
Beginner-Friendly and Simple
- You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this recipe.
- The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are simple to follow.
- Whether you’re cooking for the first time or just short on time, this recipe has you covered.
Healthier Comfort Food
- This pot pie is lower in fat and calories than the traditional version.
- It’s made with wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables, lean chicken, and plant-based milk.
- You can feel good about serving it to your family and friends.
With these benefits, it’s clear why this dairy-free chicken pot pie is a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food.
Ingredients for Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
The ingredients for this recipe are simple, fresh, and easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 2 cups | Shredded or diced for hearty protein. |
| Unsweetened almond milk | 1 ½ cups | Replaces dairy milk for creaminess. |
| Dairy-free butter | ¼ cup | Adds richness without dairy. |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup | Thickens the filling. |
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 ½ cups | Adds flavor and keeps the filling juicy. |
| Mixed vegetables | 2 cups | Carrots, peas, corn, and green beans. |
| Onion | 1 medium | Adds depth of flavor to the filling. |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Enhances the savory taste. |
| Dairy-free pie crust | 1-2 sheets | Store-bought or homemade for convenience. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning to bring out all the flavors. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
Making this pot pie is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s both delicious and dairy-free.
1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Start by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can poach or bake some chicken breasts ahead of time.
- Chop the onion and garlic, and measure out your vegetables. Having everything ready will make cooking much easier.
2: Cook the Creamy Filling
- Heat your dairy-free butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onions and stir well. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour.
- Slowly pour in the almond milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Let the mixture thicken, which should take about 5 minutes. Keep stirring to avoid burning.
- Add the shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
3: Assemble the Pot Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one sheet of your dairy-free pie crust and place it in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour the creamy chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover the filling with the second pie crust. Seal the edges by pinching them together and cut a few small slits in the top crust to let steam escape.
4: Bake Until Golden
- Brush the top crust lightly with almond milk for a golden finish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and flaky.
- Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Macronutrient Breakdown for Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
Here is the estimated macronutrient breakdown per serving. This recipe makes 6 servings:
| Macronutrient | Amount per Serving | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal | A balanced count for a hearty, filling meal. |
| Protein | 20g | Helps build and repair muscles. |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | Provides energy to fuel your day. |
| Fat | 15g | Healthy fats from dairy-free butter and crust. |
| Fiber | 4g | Supports digestion and keeps you full longer. |
Why This Matters
This dairy-free chicken pot pie provides a great balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. It’s a filling, nutritious meal that satisfies your cravings for comfort food while offering a lighter, healthier alternative to the classic recipe.
Tips for the Perfect Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
- Use the Right Milk: Unsweetened almond milk works well, but oat milk or cashew milk adds extra creaminess.
- Customize Your Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sweet potatoes to mix up the flavors.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Simply assemble the pie and bake it when ready.
- Seal the Crust: Press the edges of the crust firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Serving Ideas for Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
This hearty dish is already delicious on its own, but pairing it with simple sides makes the meal even better. Here are a few easy ideas:
- Fresh Green Salad: A light salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds freshness and balances the rich flavors of the pot pie. Drizzle it with olive oil and lemon juice for a quick dressing.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. These veggies add color, nutrients, and a nice crunch to your meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes are a great side for this cozy dish. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy filling of the pot pie. It’s simple and so tasty!
- Soup: Pair it with a light soup like tomato basil or vegetable broth for an extra comforting touch.
These sides are quick to make, easy to enjoy, and they bring variety to the meal. They turn your dairy-free chicken pot pie into a full, satisfying dinner for the whole family.
FAQs About Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie
Does chicken pot pie contain dairy?
Yes, traditional chicken pot pie usually contains milk, butter, and sometimes cream in the filling and crust. This recipe replaces dairy with plant-based alternatives.
Can you get dairy-free pies?
Absolutely! Many stores offer dairy-free pies, or you can make your own at home using plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.
What is the sauce made of in chicken pot pie?
The sauce in chicken pot pie is a creamy mixture made with milk or cream, flour, and broth. In this recipe, almond milk and dairy-free butter are used instead.
Why are chicken pot pies so high in calories?
Chicken pot pies are often high in calories because of the butter, cream, and pie crust. This dairy-free version is lighter and healthier without sacrificing flavor.
What’s the difference between chicken pie and chicken pot pie?
Chicken pie typically has a crust on the top and bottom and no creamy filling. Chicken pot pie, on the other hand, includes a creamy, savory sauce.
What ethnicity is chicken pot pie?
Chicken pot pie has European origins, particularly from England. It was later popularized in American cuisine as a hearty comfort food.
Can I freeze dairy-free chicken pot pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked pie. Bake straight from frozen, adding 15-20 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Comfort food doesn’t have to include dairy to be delicious. This dairy-free chicken pot pie is proof that you can enjoy the same creamy, cozy flavors with simple swaps. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Whether you’re avoiding dairy for health reasons or just want a lighter twist on a classic dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it out today and enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors of homemade comfort food—without the dairy.
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