Before I go to bed tonight, I’m setting my family up for a wonderful tomorrow. My secret? This crockpot chicken pot pie. There is truly no better feeling than walking through the front door after a long day to the incredible smell of a comfort food dinner already waiting for you. This slow cooker chicken pot pie isn’t just a meal; it’s the warmest welcome home you can imagine.
Imagine tender, juicy chicken swimming in a rich, creamy sauce with perfectly cooked vegetables, all topped with golden, flaky biscuits that practically melt in your mouth. The best part? Your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you go about your day. This easy crockpot chicken pot pie recipe proves that taking care of your family can start the night before with just a few minutes of prep and a whole lot of love.
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Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
This slow cooker dinner delivers all the cozy comfort of traditional chicken pot pie with a fraction of the effort. The creamy, rich filling develops incredible depth of flavor as it cooks low and slow, while the boneless skinless chicken becomes so tender it practically shreds itself. Using frozen mixed vegetables means no chopping or prep work, and they maintain their perfect texture without getting mushy.
The magic happens when you add those fluffy biscuits on top during the last hour of cooking. They steam to perfection, creating that authentic pot pie experience without rolling out pastry or worrying about soggy crusts. This best slow cooker chicken pot pie approach means you can start dinner in the morning and have a restaurant-quality meal waiting when you walk through the door.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. Using simple ingredients like cream of chicken soup and poultry seasoning creates layers of comfort food that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s the ultimate family dinner that brings everyone together around the table.
If you’re looking for more hearty comfort food recipes, this San Giorgio lasagna recipe is another crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for feeding hungry families.
Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe uses pantry staples and simple ingredients that come together to create something absolutely extraordinary. The beauty is in how these everyday items transform during the slow cooking process.
What You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 bag (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the Topping:
- 1 can (16.3 oz) refrigerated biscuits
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Why These Ingredients Matter
The combination of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth creates that perfect creamy base without being too thick or too thin. I always use boneless skinless chicken because it shreds beautifully and absorbs all those wonderful flavors during the long cook time. The onion soup mix is a secret weapon that adds incredible depth without requiring you to chop onions or measure multiple seasonings.
Frozen mixed vegetables are actually better than fresh in this recipe because they’re blanched before freezing, which means they won’t overcook during the long slow cooker process. The cornstarch slurry at the end is what transforms your pot pie from soupy to perfectly thick and satisfying. Those refrigerated biscuits on top are pure genius; they steam to fluffy perfection and give you that authentic pot pie experience without any pastry rolling or fuss.
Instructions for Making Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
Creating this simple crockpot chicken pot pie masterpiece is wonderfully easy. The key is layering flavors and timing everything perfectly for the best results.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Place the boneless skinless chicken in the bottom of your crockpot. Season with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onion soup mix, and garlic powder until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
Step 3: Add the frozen mixed vegetables on top, but don’t stir yet. This helps prevent the vegetables from overcooking.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Carefully remove the chicken and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot.
Step 6: Mix cornstarch and cold water to create a cornstarch slurry. Stir this into the pot pie mixture to thicken the sauce.
Step 7: Arrange refrigerated biscuits on top of the chicken mixture. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with thyme if using.
Step 8: Cover and cook on high for an additional 45-60 minutes until biscuits are golden and cooked through.
Hint: Don’t lift the lid during the final biscuit cooking time! The steam is what makes those biscuits fluffy and perfect. If you peek, you’ll release the steam and end up with dense biscuits instead of light, airy ones.
Cooking Tips
Temperature control is crucial for the best crockpot chicken recipes results. Cook on low for 6-8 hours if you want to start it in the morning before work, or use high for 3-4 hours if you’re starting later in the day. The low and slow method produces more tender chicken and better flavor development.
Never add the cornstarch slurry until the very end of cooking. Adding it too early can cause the sauce to become gluey or break down during the long cooking process. The mixture should be bubbling when you add the slurry for proper thickening.
When arranging biscuits on top, leave small gaps between them for even cooking and to allow steam to escape. This prevents the bottom of the biscuits from getting soggy while ensuring the tops get golden brown.
If your crockpot runs hot, check the chicken after 5 hours on low to prevent overcooking. You want it tender enough to shred easily but not so cooked that it becomes stringy.
For extra rich flavor, you can brown the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot, but it’s definitely not necessary for delicious results. This recipe is all about convenience and comfort food goodness.
Just like with my Floriditas cheese scones, the key to success is not overthinking the process and letting the ingredients do their magic.
Personal Anecdote
I discovered this crockpot chicken pot pie recipe during one of the most chaotic weeks of my life when I was juggling a new job, sick kids, and a kitchen renovation. I was desperately searching for something that would make my family feel cared for without requiring me to actually cook.
Grandma called that Tuesday evening and could hear the exhaustion in my voice. “Jazzy,” she said gently, “sometimes the most loving thing you can do is let your tools do the work for you. There’s no shame in taking shortcuts when life gets overwhelming.” She walked me through this recipe over the phone, emphasizing how the slow cooker would be my best friend during crazy times.
When I lifted that crockpot lid after eight hours and saw those golden biscuits sitting on top of the most incredible smelling chicken mixture, I actually teared up. My kids came running to the kitchen asking what smelled so amazing, and for the first time that week, our dinner table felt like home again. Now this recipe is my go-to whenever life feels too busy but my heart still wants to create something special for my family.
Substitutions for Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe is incredibly flexible and adapts beautifully to different dietary needs and what you have on hand in your kitchen.
Chicken alternatives – Rotisserie chicken works perfectly if you want to save even more time. Just add it during the last hour of cooking. Turkey breast or boneless pork also work wonderfully with this method.
Healthy crockpot chicken pot pie version – Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken, add extra vegetables like diced celery and carrots, and use whole wheat biscuits for more fiber and nutrients.
Crockpot chicken pot pie without cream of chicken soup – Make your own creamy base with 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons flour, and 2 cups chicken broth whisked together until smooth.
Gluten-free option – Use gluten-free biscuits and substitute the cream of chicken soup with a gluten-free version. Check that your onion soup mix is also gluten-free.
Dairy-free version – Use coconut milk instead of cream-based soup and dairy-free biscuits. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
Crock pot chicken pot pie with frozen vegetables variation – Fresh vegetables work too, just add them during the last 2 hours of cooking. Frozen vegetables are easier, but carrots, peas, corn, and green beans all work beautifully.
Variations on Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
Once you’ve mastered this basic technique, these delicious variations will keep your family excited about dinner.
Crockpot chicken pot pie with biscuits and gravy style – Add a packet of gravy mix along with the other seasonings for extra richness and that classic comfort food flavor.
Crock pot chicken pot pie with puff pastry – Instead of biscuits, top with thawed puff pastry during the last hour for an elegant presentation that’s perfect for company.
Crockpot chicken pot pie with noodles – Add wide egg noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a hearty, one-pot meal that’s like chicken and dumplings met pot pie.
Mexican-inspired version – Use taco seasoning instead of poultry seasoning, add corn and black beans, and top with cornbread mix for a fun fusion twist.
Herb-crusted variation – Mix dried herbs like rosemary, sage, and thyme into the melted butter before brushing on the biscuits for gourmet flavor.
Loaded version – Add diced bacon, mushrooms, and cheese to the filling for an indulgent twist that’s perfect for special occasions.
Each variation maintains that signature comfort food appeal while offering completely different flavor experiences, much like how my marry me chicken pasta adapts to different ingredients and occasions.
Equipment for Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
The right equipment makes this easy crockpot chicken pot pie even simpler and ensures perfect results every time.
6-quart slow cooker – This size is perfect for feeding a family of 4-6 people. Smaller crockpots won’t have enough room for the biscuits on top.
Large mixing bowl – Essential for whisking together the soup mixture smoothly before adding to the crockpot.
Wire whisk – Helps prevent lumps in your cream sauce base and ensures everything combines perfectly.
Two forks – The best tool for shredding chicken once it’s tender. Much easier than trying to cut it with a knife.
Small bowl – Perfect for mixing your cornstarch slurry without lumps.
Pastry brush – Makes brushing melted butter on the biscuits easy and even, though a spoon works in a pinch.
If your crockpot doesn’t have a tight-fitting lid, the biscuits won’t cook properly because steam will escape. Make sure your lid creates a good seal for the best results.
Storage Tips for Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
This recipe stores beautifully and makes fantastic leftovers with proper handling.
Refrigerator storage – Keep covered for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as everything melds together.
Freezing instructions – The filling freezes well for up to 3 months, but I don’t recommend freezing with the biscuits already on top as they become soggy when thawed.
Reheating methods – Oven reheating at 350°F works best to maintain the biscuit texture. Microwave works for the filling but will make biscuits chewy.
Make-ahead tips – You can prep the filling ingredients the night before and refrigerate, then just dump everything in the crockpot in the morning.
Portion control – Divide leftovers into individual containers for easy lunch portions that reheat perfectly in the microwave.
The cream sauce stays smooth when properly stored, and the vegetables maintain their texture beautifully. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration, stir in a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
For more make-ahead comfort food ideas, this chicken fried steak recipe also stores and reheats wonderfully for busy weeknight dinners.
Grandma’s Secret for Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
Grandma’s game-changing trick for the most flavorful crockpot chicken pot pie? She always adds a bay leaf to the chicken mixture at the beginning of cooking, then removes it before adding the biscuits. “Jazzy,” she told me with that knowing smile, “bay leaves are like little flavor fairies. They work their magic quietly and disappear, leaving behind something special.”
Her other crucial tip is about the biscuits: “Never, ever peek during those last 45 minutes, honey. Those biscuits need their steam bath to become fluffy clouds of perfection. Patience makes all the difference between dense rocks and pillowy heaven.”
She also taught me to save a little bit of the chicken broth to brush on top of the biscuits along with the butter. “It helps them brown beautifully and adds just a whisper of that savory flavor that makes people wonder what your secret is.”
This gorgeous crockpot shows off those perfectly golden biscuits sitting atop the most comforting, creamy filling that’s pure soul food at its finest.
FAQ about Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making chicken pot pie?
The biggest mistake is adding the thickener too early, which can make the sauce gluey. Also, don’t open the lid during the final biscuit cooking time, as this releases crucial steam. Overcooking the vegetables by adding them too early is another common issue that leads to mushy texture.
Is it better to cook chicken on low or high in the crockpot?
For this recipe, low heat (6-8 hours) produces the most tender, flavorful chicken. High heat (3-4 hours) works when you’re short on time, but low and slow allows better flavor development and prevents the chicken from becoming stringy or overcooked.
How do I keep the bottom crust of my chicken pot pie from getting soggy?
That’s the beauty of this crockpot version – no bottom crust means no soggy bottom! The biscuits cook on top in the steam, staying fluffy and perfect. If you want a crust-like element, serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
How do I thicken my crockpot chicken pot pie?
Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the hot mixture during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Never add cornstarch directly to hot liquid as it will clump. The mixture needs to bubble for the cornstarch to activate properly.
Conclusion
Who says comfort food has to be complicated? This crockpot chicken pot pie proves that the most satisfying, soul-warming meals can come from the simplest methods. There’s something truly magical about giving yourself the gift of preparation the night before, knowing that tomorrow will be filled with incredible aromas and satisfied smiles around your dinner table.
This simple crockpot chicken pot pie delivers all the cozy comfort of traditional pot pie with none of the fuss, making it perfect for busy families who still want that homemade feeling waiting for them at the end of long days. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and those fluffy, golden biscuits create a meal that transforms any ordinary evening into something special.
Whether you’re setting up dinner before heading to work or looking for the perfect way to welcome your family home, this recipe delivers every single time. For more comforting slow cooker inspiration, check out this delicious slow cooker chicken and dumplings recipe that pairs beautifully with the cozy vibes of this pot pie.
So go ahead and give yourself the gift of a delicious tomorrow. I promise, the best part of your day might just be walking through that door. Enjoy coming home to comfort.
Crockpot Chicken Pot Pie
Equipment
- 1 6-quart slow cooker Essential for proper biscuit cooking space
- 1 Large mixing bowl For whisking soup mixture
- 1 Wire whisk Prevents lumps in cream sauce
- 2 Forks For shredding chicken
- 1 Small bowl For cornstarch slurry
- 1 Pastry brush For buttering biscuits
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts Or chicken thighs
- 16 ounces Frozen mixed vegetables Don't thaw
- 2 cans (10.75 oz each) Cream of chicken soup Condensed
- 1 cup Chicken broth Low sodium preferred
- 1 packet Onion soup mix About 1 oz
- 1 teaspoon Poultry seasoning Essential for flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper Freshly ground
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch For thickening
- 2 tablespoons Cold water For slurry
- 1 can (16.3 oz) Refrigerated biscuits 8 count
- 2 tablespoons Melted butter For brushing
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme Optional topping
Instructions
- Place [boneless skinless chicken] in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season with [salt], [pepper], and [poultry seasoning]. Grandma always said "Season your protein first – it's the foundation of flavor!" She'd pat each piece lovingly, like tucking it into bed.
- In a large bowl, whisk together [cream of chicken soup], [chicken broth], [onion soup mix], and [garlic powder] until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken. Grandma's handwritten note says "No lumps allowed – whisk like you mean it!" This is where the magic starts.
- Scatter [frozen mixed vegetables] on top without stirring. Grandma taught me this trick: "Let them float on top, dear. They'll sink when they're ready." This prevents mushy vegetables – pure wisdom from years of experience.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The aroma that fills your house is what Grandma called "love in the air." When I smell it now, I'm transported back to her kitchen every single time.
- Carefully remove the chicken and shred the chicken using two forks. It should fall apart easily – that's how you know it's perfect. Return the shredded pieces to the pot. Grandma would sneak a taste here, and so do I.
- Mix [cornstarch] with [cold water] to create a cornstarch slurry. Stir into the pot pie mixture. This is Grandma's secret for the perfect consistency – "Not too thick, not too thin, just like Goldilocks liked it!"
- Arrange [refrigerated biscuits] on top, leaving small gaps between them. Brush with [melted butter] and sprinkle with [thyme]. Grandma's rule: "Never peek for 45 minutes – patience makes perfection!"
- Cover and cook on high for 45-60 minutes until biscuits are golden and cooked through. The steam creates fluffy biscuits that taste like clouds. When you lift that lid, it's pure comfort food heaven waiting for you.
Notes
- Rotisserie Shortcut: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken – add it during the last hour with the vegetables already cooked.
- Grandma’s Bay Leaf Secret: Add a bay leaf at the beginning and remove before adding biscuits for deeper flavor – “It’s like a flavor fairy!” she’d say.
- Thicker Filling: For extra thick filling, use only 1/2 cup chicken broth or add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to your slurry.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better overnight! Reheat in oven at 350°F to maintain biscuit texture.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze the filling (without biscuits) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with fresh biscuits on top.
- Vegetable Swaps: Use fresh vegetables if preferred – add them during the last 2 hours to prevent overcooking.
- Make It Healthier: Use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and add extra vegetables like celery and mushrooms for more nutrients.