You might think making a comforting chicken pot pie is too time-consuming, but with the Instant Pot, you can whip up a satisfying casserole in no time. This dish not only combines the traditional flavors you love but also introduces noodles for an unexpected twist. As you explore the ease of preparation and the flexibility in ingredients, you'll find plenty of ways to make this meal your own. Curious about how to customize it to fit your taste or dietary needs? There's much more to discover.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- This Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole combines chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce, topped with biscuit dough and served over noodles for comfort.
- Cooking in the Instant Pot significantly reduces prep and cook time, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
- The recipe is customizable; swap vegetables or proteins to suit your family's tastes and dietary needs.
- Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Each serving contains 350-400 calories, providing a balanced meal with lean protein, healthy carbohydrates, and essential vitamins.
How To Make It – Recipe
To create a comforting and hearty Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, you'll need to gather your ingredients and prepare for a delightful cooking experience. This dish combines tender chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with flaky biscuit dough, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. The Instant Pot notably speeds up the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this classic comfort food in no time.
Before you start cooking, verify you have all your ingredients lined up and your Instant Pot ready to go. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to impress guests. Once you master this casserole, you'll likely find yourself making it again and again!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup biscuit dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
To cook the casserole, start by turning on the Instant Pot and selecting the 'Sauté' function. Add olive oil to the pot and sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant.
Next, add the diced chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Stir in the peas, carrots, corn, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper, followed by the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth.
Seal the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to 'Manual' mode, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Finally, spoon the biscuit dough over the top of the chicken mixture in the pot and close the lid again. Select the 'Manual' setting for an additional 5 minutes to cook the biscuits. Once done, let the pressure release naturally for a few minutes before serving.
When making this dish, consider using rotisserie chicken for even faster preparation. You can also customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Additionally, the biscuit dough can be made from scratch for a more personalized touch.
If you like a thicker sauce, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) after releasing pressure. Just be mindful that the biscuit topping may cook a little differently depending on your Instant Pot model, so keep an eye on it to verify it's cooked through.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Pot Pie Casserole!
Substitution Suggestions
If you're looking to make substitutions in your Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, you're in luck—this recipe is quite adaptable! You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
For instance, if you're not a fan of peas, try using corn or green beans instead. Carrots can be replaced with diced sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist, while celery can give way to zucchini if you're looking for a lighter option.
When it comes to dairy alternatives, you have plenty of choices too. If you're lactose intolerant or looking to cut back on dairy, consider using almond milk or oat milk instead of traditional milk or cream.
For a richer flavor, coconut cream is an excellent substitute. If you want to avoid butter, olive oil or vegan butter works beautifully. Additionally, you can incorporate hashbrowns for added texture and heartiness in your casserole.
These simple vegetable swaps and dairy alternatives will guarantee your casserole remains hearty and delicious while catering to your dietary needs or taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serving up your Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole can be just as delightful as making it. The creamy, savory aroma will have everyone gathering around the table, enthusiastic to dig in.
To elevate your dish, consider some fresh garnish options. Chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top adds a vibrant touch and enhances the flavor. You can also serve with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Pair your casserole with complementary side dishes to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a revitalizing contrast to the rich, hearty casserole. You might also enjoy some roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli, which provide a nutritious balance.
If you're in the mood for something comforting, buttery garlic bread or a warm biscuit can make it feel like a homestyle feast. A warm biscuit pairs perfectly with hearty chicken pot pie soup, making it an ideal side for this comforting dish.
Don't forget to set the table with your favorite dinnerware and perhaps a light dessert afterward. Your family and friends will appreciate the effort, and you'll all savor every bite of this cozy, satisfying meal together. Enjoy!
Make-Ahead and Storage
Planning ahead can make enjoying your Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole even easier. By incorporating some meal prep strategies, you can save time and guarantee a delicious dish is always ready to go. Start by cooking a larger batch of the casserole, then divide it into individual portions. This way, you'll have quick meals on hand for busy weeknights.
For freezer tips, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label each container with the date and contents to keep track of your meals. The casserole can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish whenever you crave it. Additionally, make sure to use proper storage techniques to maintain the quality of your casserole while frozen.
When you're ready to eat, simply thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the Instant Pot or a conventional oven. This way, you get to savor the same warm, hearty flavors without the fuss of daily cooking.
Planning ahead not only makes mealtime stress-free but also guarantees you can enjoy your favorite chicken pot pie casserole at a moment's notice!
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Once you've savored your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, knowing how to properly store and reheat the leftovers guarantees you can enjoy it again without losing any of its comforting flavors.
For leftover storage, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain its texture and prevents sogginess. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to label your containers with the date!
When it's time to indulge in those tasty leftovers, follow these reheating tips. If you're using the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through.
If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. This method helps restore that delightful crust. Additionally, consider adding a sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs on top before reheating for an extra crunchy texture.
No matter how you choose to reheat, you'll relish that comforting flavor, just like the first time!
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
Each serving of the Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole offers a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a satisfying meal option. With a caloric content of around 350-400 calories, this dish is hearty yet manageable, perfect for a fulfilling dinner without overindulgence.
The ingredient breakdown showcases a mix of wholesome components. You'll enjoy tender chunks of chicken, which provide lean protein, while the noodles add a comforting carbohydrate base.
Vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery not only enhance the flavor but also contribute essential vitamins and minerals. The creamy sauce, made with broth and a hint of seasoning, ties everything together, delivering rich taste without excessive fat. Additionally, the dish incorporates wholesome ingredients that contribute to both flavor and nutrition.
This casserole is also a great source of fiber due to the veggies, helping you feel full and satisfied. Plus, it's customizable; you can easily swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish for family gatherings, this casserole checks all the boxes for nutrition and flavor, ensuring you enjoy a nourishing dining experience.
Final Thoughts
With its balanced nutrition and comforting flavors, the Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie Casserole proves to be a fantastic addition to any meal rotation. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also packs in essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for busy weeknights.
It's a perfect example of a family favorite that can bring everyone together around the dinner table.
To elevate your cooking experience, consider a few cooking tips. For a richer flavor, sauté your vegetables before adding them to the pot. Additionally, using a crockpot option allows for an even more effortless preparation that can enhance the texture of your meal.
Don't shy away from experimenting with different herbs and spices either; they can transform the dish into something truly special. Feel free to swap out proteins or add seasonal veggies to make it your own.
This casserole is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your family's tastes. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers for lunch, this recipe has you covered.
You'll find that it not only saves time but also reduces cleanup, letting you enjoy more moments with your loved ones.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just keep in mind that it'll increase the cooking time. Make sure to adjust accordingly, and you'll still achieve a deliciously tender result in your dish. Enjoy cooking!
What Type of Noodles Work Best in This Casserole?
When you're craving comfort food, egg noodles work best in casseroles, soaking up flavors beautifully. However, rotini pasta can add a delightful twist with its spirals, capturing chunks of chicken and veggies in every bite.
Is This Dish Gluten-Free?
This dish isn't naturally gluten-free. However, you can easily swap in gluten-free noodles and use gluten-free alternatives for other ingredients, ensuring you enjoy a delicious, comforting meal without the gluten.
How Long Does It Take to Cook in the Instant Pot?
Cooking time in the Instant Pot typically takes around 10 minutes on high pressure. Once it reaches pressure, the magic happens, and you'll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy in no time!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Absolutely, you can add various vegetable varieties to enhance flavor and nutrition. For cooking tips, consider using peas, carrots, or corn, and adjust cooking times slightly to guarantee everything cooks evenly and deliciously.
