Ahh, the classic chicken pot pie… what’s not to love? Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and a flaky crust that dreams are made of. But let’s face it – heating up leftovers can feel like walking a tightrope. You don’t want to end up with a soggy mess, and drying it out would be the foodie equivalent of a crime.
From the trusty oven to the quick-and-easy microwave, the trendy air fryer, the precise sous-vide, and the slow and steady stovetop – we’ve got all the tricks up our sleeves to help you achieve that perfectly reheated pie.
By the end of this post, you’ll be ready to heat, eat, and repeat without worrying about ruining the texture or taste of your beloved pie. Let’s warm things up, shall we?
Guide to Reheating Chicken Pot Pie
Ever wondered how to breathe life back into that delicious pot pie sitting in your fridge? From the oven to the Instant Pot, from the conventional to the cutting-edge, we’re going on a culinary journey of discovery. The aim? To find the best method to reheat that chicken pie, with its golden brown flaky crust, without losing a hint of that magical texture or taste. Keep your oven mitts and food thermometers close, folks!
This is a quick comparison of the pros and cons of all methods. In the next section you will find a step-by-step instruction manual for each of them.
Choosing Your Best Method: A Quick Guide
Having so many different methods to reheat chicken pot pie might be a bit overwhelming. But hey, variety is the spice of life, right? Let’s break it down and see which method might work best for your situation.
1. Microwave
Quickest way to reheat, especially when you’re hungry and in a hurry. But, it may leave you with a less crispy crust and uneven heating.
- Pros: Quick, convenient.
- Cons: Less crispy crust, risk of uneven heating.
2. Oven
The oven method might take longer, but it gives you a beautifully crispy crust and evenly heated filling.
- Pros: Crispy crust, evenly heated filling.
- Cons: Takes longer.
3. Stovetop
Ideal for smaller portions or when you want to savor a pot pie soup. But remember, it might turn your crust into a soggy mess.
- Pros: Great for turning leftovers into a pot pie soup.
- Cons: Not suitable for larger pies, soggy crust.
4. Air Fryer
It’s a quick method that delivers a nice golden brown, crispy crust. But, it’s not suited for larger pies or slices.
- Pros: Quick, gives a crispy crust.
- Cons: Not suitable for larger pies.
5. Instant Pot
A nifty way to heat your pie evenly without drying it out. Just remember to finish under a broiler for that crispy crust.
- Pros: Even heating, prevents drying out.
- Cons: Requires a broiler finish for crispy crust.
6. Toaster Oven
Perfect for smaller pies or slices, offering a crispy crust and well-heated filling.
- Pros: Ideal for smaller pies or slices, gives a crispy crust.
- Cons: Not suitable for larger pies.
7. Convection Oven
Even heating and a crispy crust are its forte. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- Pros: Even heating, gives a crispy crust.
- Cons: Risk of overcooking if not monitored.
8. Sous Vide
This method gives you precise, even heating. But remember, it’s a lengthy process.
- Pros: Precise, even heating.
- Cons: Takes longer.
9. Slow Cooker
Ideal for reheating without drying out, though the crust might not get as crispy.
- Pros: Doesn’t dry out the pie.
- Cons: Crust may not get crispy.
Remember, the best method will depend on the size of the pot pie, the equipment you have on hand, and the time you have available. And of course, your preference for that perfect crust! Happy reheating!
Instructions for Reheating Chicken Pot Pie
Now let’s break down the specifics of how to reheat both a cooled pot pie and its icier cousin, the frozen pot pie. Each with different methods, to ensure your pie crust stays crispy, your filling remains creamy, and you avoid creating a soggy mess. We’re talking about achieving pie-fection here, folks. So, stay tuned!
1. Traditional Oven
Ready to embark on the quest for the best oven-reheated chicken pie? Fasten your apron and let’s get cooking!
- Preheat Oven: Turn up the heat and get your oven preheating to a cozy 350°F (175°C). It’s just the right temperature to wake up your leftover chicken pot pie without scorching its beautiful golden brown top crust.
- Prepare Your Pot Pie: Got a whole pie? Lucky you! For best results, take your chilled pie out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Working with a frozen pie? Skip the thawing, we’re going straight from the freezer to the oven.
- Cover It Up: Cover the pie with aluminum foil. This will prevent the edges from burning and the top crust from over-browning.
- Get Some Water: Now, here’s a pro tip: Place a small oven-safe bowl of water on the rack beside your pie. This will add moisture to the oven and prevent your pie from drying out.
- Heat and Eat: Place your pie on a baking sheet (trust me, it makes handling easier) and into the preheated oven. For a chilled pie, aim for a cooking time of about 20-25 minutes. Got a frozen pie? You’re looking at around 45 minutes to an hour.
Remember, we’re not just after a crispy crust, but a creamy filling as well. So, ensure your pie’s internal temperature hits a food-safe 165°F by using a food thermometer.
2. Stovetop
Not in an oven mood? Let’s introduce your chicken pie to the stovetop, a less time-consuming method that still yields delicious results. Here’s how:
- Preparation is Key: Cut your pie into servings. Smaller pieces mean even reheating, which translates to less time waiting and more time enjoying your savory pie.
- Heat Your Pan: Grab your favorite non-stick skillet, set it over medium heat, and add a dash of oil. Why the oil, you ask? It helps in getting the crispy crust we all love.
- Time to Sizzle: Place your pot pie portions in the skillet and cover. Let them reheat for about 5-7 minutes, or until you’re happy with the crust and the filling is warmed through.
3. Microwave
If you’re really pressed for time or simply cannot wait to dig into your pot pie, the microwave is your go-to appliance. Here’s how to avoid a soggy mess:
- Prep Your Pie: Cut your pie into serving portions. Trust me, it’ll help ensure even heating and prevent a cold-in-the-middle scenario.
- Water in: Here’s a nifty trick: Put a half-filled cup of water in the microwave with your pie. This creates steam that prevents the pie from drying out.
- Ready, Set, Microwave!: Place your pie slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a microwave-safe lid or another inverted plate, and pop it into the microwave.
- Patience, Young Padawan: Reheat at 50% power for around 2-3 minutes. Yes, it’s the microwave, but we’re still playing it safe to protect the texture of our beloved pie.
Remember, the filling should reach 165°F for a safe bite into that flaky crust.
4. Air Fryer
Air fryer, the modern miracle of quick, crispy reheating. Ready for a crust that’ll make even your oven jealous?
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Air Fryer, Meet Pie: Place your pot pie into the air fryer basket. For best results, try to place it in the center of the basket for even heating.
- Cook Time: For a cooled pie, 15 minutes should do the trick. For frozen pies, it’s a bit longer, around 20-25 minutes.
As always, your pie’s internal temperature should reach a food-safe 165°F.
5. Instant Pot
Got an Instant Pot handy? Well, it’s a great way to reheat your chicken pot pie without drying out the filling or making the crust soggy.
- Prepare the Pot: Pour one cup of water into your Instant Pot and place the trivet in the bottom.
- Pot Pie Prep: Wrap your pot pie in aluminum foil and place it on the trivet.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on high pressure for about 20 minutes (frozen pie might need 30 minutes). Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Crisp That Crust: Remove the pot pie, unwrap, and pop under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to get that crispy, golden brown top crust.
6. Toaster Oven
Got a smaller pie or just a slice left? Your toaster oven can be your best friend. It’s a great way to reheat your pie and retain that perfect flaky crust.
- Preheat Toaster Oven: Heat your toaster oven to 350°F.
- Pie Time: Place your pie or slice in the toaster oven.
- Wait for the Magic: Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is piping hot.
7. Convection Oven
Ready to make the most of your convection oven? Here’s your guide to crispy crust perfection:
- Heat Up: Preheat your convection oven to 300°F.
- Pie Goes In: Place your pot pie in the oven.
- Reheat: Let it reheat for about 15-20 minutes (cooled pie) or 30-40 minutes (frozen pie). The convection fan ensures even heating and helps to keep that crust from turning into a soggy mess.
8. Sous Vide
In the mood to use your sous vide? It’s an unconventional approach, but the gentle, precise heating can really bring out the best in your chicken pot pie.
- Prep Your Pie: Sealed tight is the key here. Place your pot pie in a vacuum-sealed bag or zip-top bag and seal tightly. If using a zip-top bag, use the water displacement method to remove as much air as possible.
- Warm Your Water Bath: Preheat your sous vide to 165°F, ensuring your pie will be heated all the way through.
- Submerge and Simmer: Submerge the sealed pie into the water bath and let it heat for about 1-2 hours. Yep, it’s a longer process, but your patience will be rewarded with a perfectly reheated pie.
- Finish with a Flash: Want that crispy top? Quickly broil your pie in the oven for a couple of minutes to get that golden, flaky crust.
9. Slow Cooker
The humble slow cooker is known for its stews and soups, but it can be your unexpected ally for reheating your chicken pot pie.
- Get Your Slow Cooker Ready: Lightly grease the slow cooker pot with a little oil or non-stick spray. It helps to prevent the pie from sticking.
- Insert Your Pie: Place your pot pie in the slow cooker. If you have a whole pie, it should fit snugly.
- Slow and Steady: Set your slow cooker to its lowest setting (usually “Warm” or “Low”) and let the pie reheat gradually over 2-3 hours. The low and slow method ensures your pie doesn’t dry out.
- Check and Serve: Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating. You might not get a super crispy crust this way, but the filling will be perfectly heated and your crust won’t turn into a soggy disaster.
Just remember, regardless of the method, your pot pie’s creamy filling should always hit that food-safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Safety Guidelines for Your Chicken Pot Pie
Safety first, foodies. Before you dive in to savor that delicious pot pie, ensure it’s heated all the way through. That means reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. A food thermometer is your trusty ally here. We all love a hearty meal, but no one likes an upset stomach, right?
Your Pot Pie’s Life on the Shelf
Let’s set the stage. You’ve got a whole pie in the fridge, wrapped up tighter than a mummy in aluminum foil. How long does it stay fresh and safe to eat? Typically, your chicken pot pie can last 3-5 days in the fridge. If you’re not planning to consume it in that time, consider sending your pot pie on a chilly vacation in your freezer. A frozen pot pie can stay good for about 2-3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped properly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn.
An unbaked pie fares better in the freezer but fear not, a baked pot pie can hold its own, too!
Tips from the Pros: A Slice of Pie Wisdom
- Prevent Sogginess: Nobody wants a sad, soggy pie. Combat this by reheating your pot pie at a lower temperature for a longer time, drying out the excess moisture without risking a burnt crust. Ovens and air fryers are your allies here!
- Keep it Crispy: Want to enjoy the same crispy pie tomorrow? Brush a bit of egg wash or melted butter over the crust before reheating. This little trick will help maintain that appetizing crunch.
- Rescue Operation for Soggy Pie: Did your pie turn out soggy? No worries! Just pop it back into the oven at a lower temperature for a longer duration. Keep a watchful eye, though; you’re drying it out, not turning it into charcoal!
- Maintain Crispiness during Reheating: Preheat your oven or air fryer before placing the pie in it. This simple step can make a world of difference to your crust’s texture, ensuring a delightfully crispy outcome.
- Achieve a Crispy Bottom Crust: For those who believe in love at first bite, a crispy bottom crust is key! Use a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone in your oven. The direct heat from below will work wonders on your pie crust.
FAQ: Your Curiosity Served Hot
Can you reheat cooked chicken pot pie?
Yes, indeed! Each of the reheating methods discussed here is suitable for bringing your cooked chicken pot pie back to life.
Can I reheat KFC chicken pot pie or other store-bought pies?
Absolutely! The same rules apply; be mindful of the cooking time and temperature.
Is it safe to reheat a cooked pie?
Sure thing, but only if it was properly stored. Pies left out for more than 2 hours at room temperature can breed bacteria. Always store your pie properly and ensure it’s reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do you reheat a pie without drying it out?
The trick is to go low and slow. Use a lower temperature and cover your pie with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out.
How do you reheat a pie in the oven from the fridge?
If it’s thawed properly, you can follow the conventional oven method. Aim for 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
How do you reheat chicken pie in the fridge?
First, let the pie reach room temperature. Then, choose any of our reheating methods that suit your time and equipment.
How do you reheat pastry without it going soggy?
To avoid a soggy crust, consider reheating your pie in the oven or air fryer as they provide a drier heat.
How do you keep pastry crispy the next day?
Reheating in an air fryer or oven usually works best for maintaining that delightful crunch.
How do you reheat a soggy pie?
Bake it at a lower temperature for a longer time to dry out the excess moisture. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it!
How do you keep pastry crispy?
Brushing the crust with a bit of egg wash or butter before reheating can help maintain a crispy texture.
How do I make my bottom pie crust crispy?
Try preheating your baking sheet in the oven, then place your pie on it. The direct heat can help crisp up the bottom crust.
Can I freeze a chicken pot pie with a store-bought crust?
Yes, both homemade and store-bought pies can be frozen for later enjoyment.
What are some common mistakes when storing chicken pot pie?
Not allowing the pie to cool before storage, or not wrapping it tightly enough can lead to soggy crusts and an unfortunate change in flavor.
How do I reheat a frozen chicken pot pie?
Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating, and then follow the reheating guidelines for the best results.
How long should I reheat my chicken pot pie in each method?
It depends on the method: conventional oven takes about 25-30 minutes, toaster oven about 20-25 minutes, microwave around 5-7 minutes, air fryer approximately 12-15 minutes, sous vide about 1-2 hours, and slow cooker 2-3 hours.
Can I reheat a chicken pot pie that was left out overnight?
No, it’s not safe to reheat and eat food that was left out overnight at room temperature.
Does the reheating method affect the taste of chicken pot pie?
Yes, different methods can influence the texture and flavor of the pie. For example, an oven tends to maintain the crust’s crispiness better than a microwave.
Can I reheat a chicken pot pie multiple times?
It’s not advisable as the quality and safety of the pie can be compromised. Try to only reheat what you’ll eat.
Conclusion: Pie Ever After
There you have it, the low-down on reheating your chicken pot pie. Whether you’re a fan of the convenience of the microwave, the efficiency of an air fryer, or the precision of a sous vide, you now have the tools to savor a perfectly reheated pie. Remember, the best method is the one that suits your needs and gives you the delicious results you’re craving. So go forth, heat, and eat! Enjoy your slice of comfort.
Reheating Chicken Pot Pie
Equipment
- 1 Oven
Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken pot pie
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Microwave Method
- Cut the pot pie into serving portions.
- Place a half-filled cup of water in the microwave with the pot pie.
- Place the pie slices on a microwave-safe plate, cover them, and microwave at 50% power for around 2-3 minutes.
- Ensure the filling reaches a safe temperature of 165 °F.
Oven Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 °F.
- Cover the pot pie with aluminum foil to prevent the edges from burning.
- Place a small oven-safe bowl of water on the oven rack beside the pot pie.
- Bake the pie for about 20-25 minutes for a chilled pie and 45 minutes to an hour for a frozen pie.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Stovetop Method
- Cut the pot pie into serving portions.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a dash of oil.
- Place the pot pie portions in the skillet and cover, reheating for about 5-7 minutes.
- Ensure the filling reaches a safe temperature of 165 °F
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F350 °F.
- Place the pot pie in the center of the air fryer basket.
- Cook the pie for 15 minutes for a cooled pie and 20-25 minutes for frozen pies.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Instant Pot Method
- Pour one cup of water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet at the bottom.
- Wrap the pot pie in aluminum foil and place it on the trivet.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to "Sealing," and cook on high pressure for about 20 minutes (or 30 minutes for frozen pie).
- After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Unwrap the pie and broil for 2-3 minutes to get a crispy crust.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Toaster Oven Method
- Preheat the toaster oven to 350 °F.
- Place the pie in the toaster oven and reheat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Convection Oven Method
- Preheat the convection oven to 300 °F.
- Place the pot pie in the oven and reheat for about 15-20 minutes (for cooled pie) or 30-40 minutes (for frozen pie).
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Sous Vide Method
- Place the pot pie in a vacuum-sealed bag or zip-top bag and seal tightly.
- Preheat the sous vide to 165 °F.
- Submerge the sealed pie into the water bath and heat for about 1-2 hours.
- Broil the pie in the oven for a few minutes to get a crispy crust.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F
Slow Cooker Method
- Lightly grease the slow cooker pot with a little oil or non-stick spray.
- Place the pot pie in the slow cooker.
- Set the slow cooker to its lowest setting and let the pie reheat gradually over 2-3 hours.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 °F.
Notes
- Safety Guidelines: Always ensure your pot pie reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating. Use a food thermometer to check this.
- Shelf Life: A properly stored chicken pot pie can last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. If you plan to store it longer, freeze it; properly wrapped, it can last 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Prevent Sogginess: Reheat your pot pie at a lower temperature for a longer time to avoid a soggy crust. An oven or air fryer is recommended for this.
- Crispiness: Brush a bit of egg wash or melted butter over the crust before reheating to maintain its crispiness. Preheating your oven or air fryer can also help maintain a crispy crust.
- Soggy Pie Rescue: If your pie becomes soggy, you can revive it by baking at a lower temperature for a longer duration. Monitor it closely to avoid over-drying or burning.
- Crispy Bottom Crust: If you prefer a crispy bottom crust, preheat a baking sheet or pizza stone in your oven before placing the pie on it. The direct heat will help crisp up the bottom crust.
- Reheating Store-bought Pies: You can reheat store-bought pies like KFC chicken pot pie following the same reheating methods and precautions discussed here.
- Avoiding Dryness: To avoid drying out your pie while reheating, go for a lower temperature and cover the pie with aluminum foil.
- From the Fridge to the Oven: If the pie has been properly thawed, you can reheat it in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes.
- Avoiding Soggy Pastry: To avoid a soggy crust, consider reheating your pie in the oven or air fryer as these methods provide a drier heat.
- Keeping Pastry Crispy the Next Day: Reheating in an air fryer or oven usually works best for maintaining a crispy crust.
- Freezing Pot Pies: You can freeze chicken pot pies with store-bought crusts for later use. Ensure they are properly wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
- Storing Pot Pies: Common mistakes when storing chicken pot pies include not allowing the pie to cool before storage and not wrapping it tightly enough, which can lead to soggy crusts and a change in flavor.
- Reheating a Frozen Pie: Thaw the pie in the fridge overnight before reheating according to the provided guidelines for the best results.
- Reheating Times: The reheating times vary by method – conventional oven: 25-30 minutes, toaster oven: 20-25 minutes, microwave: 5-7 minutes, air fryer: 12-15 minutes, sous vide: 1-2 hours, and slow cooker: 2-3 hours.
- Reheating Left Out Pie: If a pot pie has been left out overnight at room temperature, it’s not safe to reheat and eat it.
- Reheating Method Impact: Different reheating methods can influence the texture and flavor of the pie. For instance, an oven tends to maintain the crust’s crispiness better than a microwave.
- Reheating Multiple Times: It’s not recommended to reheat a chicken pot pie multiple times as the quality and safety of the pie can be compromised. It’s best to only reheat what you plan to eat in one sitting.