If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with flavor, you’re going to adore this Skillet Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie Recipe. Imagine tender shredded chicken, nestled in a creamy and spiced vegetable medley, topped with golden, flaky puff pastry that crisps up beautifully in the oven. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of savory richness and delicate textures, making it a true classic with a delightful twist. This recipe brings together simple ingredients for a dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly straightforward to make, turning a weekday dinner into a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top left, a large round white plate holds three separate piles of finely chopped orange carrots, light green celery, and pale green leeks. To the right of the plate are two fresh whole leeks and a rectangular sheet of pale uncooked dough. Near the center, a small white bowl contains shredded cooked chicken. Below it, a wooden cutting board holds two large carrots, several small round potatoes, a bunch of celery stalks with leaves, a whole garlic bulb, and an egg. On the right side, a white bowl is filled with quartered potatoes, and a small metal measuring cup holds bright green peas. Small bowls with white salt, black pepper, and a mix of red, brown, and beige spices sit near the chicken and diced vegetables. At the bottom left, a white pitcher holds milk, next to it is a clear glass mug with a golden liquid, and a metal measuring cup is filled with white flour. A stick of pale yellow butter with a square piece missing rests near the potatoes. The lighting is bright and natural, casting soft shadows. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every great dish starts with the right ingredients, and this recipe is no exception. Each component plays an essential role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this chicken pot pie so irresistible.

1 lb boneless/skinless chicken breasts: Cooked and shredded for tender protein.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables to golden perfection.
4 celery hearts, finely diced: Contributes crunch and fresh earthiness.
4 medium carrots, finely diced: Offers sweetness and vibrant color.
1 cup thinly sliced leeks: Brings a mild onion flavor without overpowering.
1 tablespoon Creole Cajun Seasoning: Infuses the filling with a warm, smoky depth of flavor.
Kosher salt & fresh ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors alive.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic undertone.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a smoky nuance that elevates the dish.
½ lb gold baby potatoes, chopped into quarters: Offers hearty texture and creaminess when cooked.
6 cloves garlic, finely minced: Delivers fragrant punch and richness.
4-6 sprigs fresh thyme, de-stemmed: Infuses earthy, herbal brightness.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling to that perfect creamy consistency.
2 cups chicken broth or stock: Creates a savory base for the sauce, with room to adjust for preferred thickness.
2 cups half and half, room temperature or warmed: Adds creaminess and silky texture without heaviness.
1 cup frozen peas: Pops of color and sweetness to brighten each bite.
1 (17.3-ounce) store-bought frozen puff pastry, thawed: The crowning glory that bakes into irresistible flaky layers.
1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water, mixed for egg wash: Gives the puff pastry a gorgeous golden shine.

How to Make Skillet Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Puff Pastry

First things first, take that puff pastry out of the freezer so it can thaw according to the package directions. Having it perfectly thawed ensures it will puff up beautifully while baking, giving you that addictive crispy exterior you’re aiming for.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts sizzling. Toss in the finely diced celery, carrots, and thinly sliced leeks. Let them cook gently until golden and softened, about 6 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because it kick-starts the flavors, creating a sweet and fragrant base for the filling.

Step 3: Season and Add Potatoes

Sprinkle the vegetables with Creole Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well so the spices coat every bit of the veggies. Next, add the quartered gold baby potatoes and stir to combine. Continue cooking until the potatoes are tender, about 7 to 10 minutes. The potatoes bring heartiness and a creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Thyme

Now add the minced garlic and fresh thyme sprigs. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until everything smells absolutely divine. The garlic intensifies the flavor while thyme introduces a subtle, woody aroma that lifts the whole filling.

Step 5: Thicken the Filling

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the skillet contents, tossing everything thoroughly to fully coat the vegetables and potatoes. Continuing to cook for about 2 minutes helps cook off the raw flour taste and sets the stage for a perfectly thickened sauce later on.

Step 6: Pour in Broth and Half and Half

Slowly pour the chicken broth while stirring to incorporate it smoothly with the flour and veggies. Once it’s combined and thickened, stir in the half and half. Let everything come up to a gentle simmer, about 3 to 4 minutes. This creamy, savory sauce is the heartwarming soul of the Skillet Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie Recipe.

Step 7: Add Chicken and Peas

Finally, mix in your cooked shredded chicken and frozen peas. Stir everything so the filling melds together for 2 to 3 minutes, thick and luscious. If you want a looser filling, add a touch more broth by ¼ cup increments until you reach your favorite consistency.

Step 8: Top with Puff Pastry

Cut the thawed puff pastry into roughly 2-inch squares and arrange them carefully on top of the filling. Brush the puff pastry pieces with your egg wash to achieve that irresistible golden shine.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Pop your skillet in the oven at 400°F and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed, golden, and crisp. Let the pot pie cool for about 10 minutes before serving so the filling sets slightly and every mouthful is pure comfort.

How to Serve Skillet Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

A white pot filled with three main layers is shown: the bottom layer is creamy yellow soup with a smooth texture, topped on one side with shredded light brown cooked chicken pieces, and on the other side with small, round, bright green peas. Around the pot are fresh ingredients including whole light brown potatoes on a white cloth, two long bright orange carrots, celery stalks with green leaves, garlic bulbs, and two small bowls of salt and black pepper on a white marbled surface. Some green leek leaves and a few sprigs of fresh thyme complete the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top offer a burst of color and freshness that brighten the rich filling. A light drizzle of olive oil over the puff pastry just before serving adds a subtle sheen and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

For sides, consider a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness, or roasted brussels sprouts for a bit of bite and crunch. Creamy mashed cauliflower is a wonderful, low-carb companion that keeps the meal hearty but balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

You can impress guests by serving this pot pie straight out of the skillet for a rustic vibe, or spoon portions into shallow bowls topped with individual puff pastry pieces for an elegant touch. For parties, mini puff pastry squares paired with the filling make charming, handheld bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The filling stays flavorful and moist for up to 3 days, though the puff pastry may lose its crispness.

Freezing

You can freeze the filling alone for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before topping with puff pastry and baking fresh. Avoid freezing once baked, as the puff pastry texture will suffer.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in an oven-safe dish at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes to maintain some crispness. A quick microwave zap works in a pinch but may soften the pastry.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey is a fantastic substitute and offers a similar flavor profile. You could also experiment with cooked diced ham or even a vegetarian version with mushrooms and tofu for a twist.

Is it necessary to use puff pastry, or can I use pie dough?

Puff pastry brings a uniquely flaky and buttery texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling. Pie dough will work but results in a denser, sturdier crust rather than the satisfying crispness of puff pastry.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for thickening and swap the puff pastry for a gluten-free puff pastry alternative. Ensure your seasoning blends and broth are also gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you love heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper during step 3. Fresh chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce stirred into the filling just before baking also work brilliantly.

What’s the best way to shred the chicken?

The easiest method is to cook the chicken breasts and then use two forks to pull the meat apart into fine shreds. You can also pulse cooked chicken a few times in a food processor for a uniform texture.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Puff Pastry Chicken Pot Pie Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. The rich, creamy filling bursting with seasoned veggies and shredded chicken combined with the irresistible crisp puff pastry topping makes it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re celebrating a family dinner or just want to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to everyone at your table. Give it a try — your cozy night in will thank you!