When it comes to creating a comforting and satisfying chicken pot pie, the filling is key. While many traditional recipes call for canned cream of mushroom soup, making your own creamy mushroom sauce is not only healthier, but it also enhances the flavor of your dish. Let’s dive into why this homemade sauce is the perfect alternative and how you can easily whip it up in your kitchen!

Why Choose Homemade Creamy Mushroom Sauce?

Using a homemade creamy mushroom sauce instead of store-bought cream of mushroom soup offers numerous benefits:

Control Over Ingredients: You can choose fresh mushrooms, low-fat milk, and whole wheat flour, ensuring a healthier and more nutritious filling.
Enhanced Flavor: Freshly sautéed mushrooms and garlic create a rich and deep flavor that simply can’t be matched by canned soups.
Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, adding herbs or spices that you love.
No Preservatives: You avoid the additives and preservatives commonly found in processed soups.

Tips for Perfecting Your Sauce

Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables, such as peas or carrots, for added nutrition.
Boost the Flavor: For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a dash of soy sauce.
Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for later use.

The Secret to a Healthier Chicken Pot Pie: Homemade Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Course: VegetarianCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Create a delicious, homemade creamy mushroom sauce as a healthier alternative for chicken pot pi, rich, flavorful, and easy to make!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ozs mushrooms, sliced (which includes cremini or button)
2 tablespoons whole wheat flour
2 cups low-fat milk or unsweetened almond milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, warmth olive oil or butter over medium warmness. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir within the minced garlic and cook for every other minute until fragrant.
Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their juices and become tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the whole wheat flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat. Gradually pour in the low-fat milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to prepare dinner until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Use in Your Chicken Pot Pie: Incorporate this creamy mushroom sauce into your chicken pot pie filling for a rich and satisfying dish.

Recipe Video

Notes

Make Ahead: This creamy mushroom sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before using in your chicken pot pie.
Mushroom Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, portobello, or a mix, to enhance the flavor and texture of the sauce.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of low-fat milk, and opt for plant-based butter or olive oil for sautéing.

Creative Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Filling

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some ideas for creative variations to your chicken pot pie filling:

Swap the Protein: Instead of chicken, try turkey or even ground beef for a unique twist. These meats provide different textures and flavors while still being hearty and satisfying.
Add Seasonal Vegetables: For a fall-inspired pot pie, toss in roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes. These vegetables add a touch of sweetness and color to your dish.
Experiment with Mushrooms: Try adding different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a more earthy and rich flavor.

For those looking for a plant-based or vegetarian option, here are some suggestions:

Plant-Based Proteins: Replace chicken with tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a nutritious, protein-packed alternative that still feels like a comforting dish.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap the traditional creamy base for coconut milk or almond milk to keep the sauce rich but completely dairy-free.
More Vegetables: Add in extra veggies like spinach, corn, or bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious filling that’s sure to please everyone.

The Best Pie Crusts for Chicken Pot Pie

The crust is just as important as the filling, so it’s important to choose the right one for your dish. Here are a few ideas to help you decide:

Flaky vs. Buttery Crust: A flaky crust will give you a light, crisp texture, while a buttery crust will provide a more tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Both are delicious, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
Store-Bought vs. Homemade Crust: While making your own crust can be time-consuming, it’s well worth it for the extra flavor and texture. But if you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought crust will still make a fantastic pot pie.

For those with dietary restrictions, consider these alternatives:

Gluten-Free Crust: If you’re gluten-free, you can use rice flour or almond flour to create a crust that’s just as flaky as the traditional version.
Dairy-Free Crust: You can substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk in your pie crust recipe for a completely dairy-free option that still tastes fantastic.

Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Pot Pie Every Time

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your chicken pot pie turns out perfectly every time:

Achieving the Ideal Crust Texture: For a beautiful, golden finish, brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking. This will give your pot pie that perfect sheen and color. If you prefer a crispier bottom, consider pre-baking the bottom crust for a few minutes to prevent it from becoming soggy.
Preventing a Runny Filling: One common issue with chicken pot pie is a filling that turns out too runny. To avoid this, make sure the sauce thickens properly before adding it to the crust. Simmer the sauce long enough to reduce the liquid, and allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes after baking. This will help the filling set and prevent it from spilling out when you slice into it.

How to Serve and Store Your Chicken Pot Pie

Once your chicken pot pie is baked and ready, here’s how to serve and store it:

Serving Suggestions: For a well-rounded meal, serve your pot pie with a light side salad or some steamed green beans. These fresh sides will balance out the richness of the pot pie perfectly. Alternatively, you can serve the pie alongside warm, buttery biscuits for an extra comforting touch.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie back in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispiness of the crust. If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave, though the crust might not stay as crispy.

Nutrition (per serving estimate):

Calories: 150
Protein: 5g
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 200mg

Enjoy Your Meal