If you are searching for a comforting, hearty dish that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie will become your new favorite. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, nutty wild rice, and a medley of sautéed vegetables all wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. The rich, creamy filling perfectly balances the wholesome textures and earthy flavors, making every bite satisfying and soul-soothing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish for entertaining guests, Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie brings a delightful twist to the classic pot pie experience.

Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and approachable, yet each one plays a vital role in layering flavors and textures, resulting in that perfect Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie you’ll want to make again and again.

Cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, lean protein that takes on the flavors of the filling beautifully.
Cooked wild rice: Adds a nutty, chewy texture that’s the perfect companion to creamy fillings.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Carrots: Bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and aromatic base flavor.
Small white mushrooms: Offer an earthy note that rounds out the savory profile.
Garlic: Enhances the filling with a robust, fragrant punch.
Frozen peas: Impart a pop of color and fresh sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Crucial for both the filling richness and the flaky crust.
All-purpose unbleached flour: Used to create the crust and to thicken the luscious filling.
Chicken broth: Forms the savory base and keeps the filling flavorful and moist.
Heavy whipping cream: Adds creaminess and a luxurious texture.
Lemon juice: A splash to brighten all the savory flavors.
Dried thyme and rosemary: Herbs that bring warmth and earthiness.
Coarse salt and sea salt: For seasoning both filling and crust perfectly.
Celery seeds or caraway seeds (optional): Provide a subtle aromatic twist to the crust.

How to Make Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by combining the flour, seeds, and salt in a large bowl—this dry mix is the foundation of your buttery crust. Cut cold, cubed butter into the flour until pea-sized bits remain, offering that flaky texture we all love. Gradually add cold water and stir until the dough comes together. Don’t worry if it seems sticky; just flour your hands and folding surface and shape it into a disc. Chill the dough to firm it up, then roll it out into either a rectangle or circle depending on your baking dish. This medium-cold dough keeps the crust tender and flaky after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the dough chills, get your filling started by sautéing celery, onion, carrots, and mushrooms in butter until tender and fragrant. The vegetables soften just enough to build a flavorful base while keeping a little bite, which creates contrast with the creamy filling. Toss in garlic for a minute to elevate the aroma. Next, melt more butter in the pan and stir in flour to make a blond roux, cooking gently to remove any raw flour taste. Gradually add chicken broth, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and finally the cream, stirring constantly to form a smooth, luscious sauce. The filling only thickens further once the chicken, peas, and wild rice join the party.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pot Pie

Grease your baking dish and ladle in the piping hot filling, making sure to spread it evenly. Roll out your chilled crust and carefully cover the filling, keeping the edges neat by crimping or pinching as you prefer. Work quickly to prevent the warm filling from melting the butter in your crust dough prematurely. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven until the bubbling filling peeks out beneath a golden and flaky top crust—roughly 30 minutes. Allow the pot pie to rest for 10 minutes after baking so the filling settles, making it easier (and safer!) to serve.

How to Serve Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme leaves adds a pop of green that brightens the dish visually and gives a fresh herbal note that balances the richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to add crunch and acidity. Roasted Brussels sprouts or maple-glazed carrots also complement the hearty flavors well.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling fancy, prepare individual pot pies in ramekins or small cast iron skillets using the same recipe. It’s a charming way to impress guests and ensures everyone gets a perfectly crispy crust. You can also top with puff pastry instead of traditional pie dough for an extra flaky, buttery crust upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the filling moist and the crust from becoming too soft.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled pot pie before baking by wrapping it well in plastic and foil; it will keep for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time to ensure the filling is piping hot.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the crust’s flakiness. Using the microwave can work in a pinch but may make the crust softer.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well and adds a different texture. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the filling to avoid undercooked grains.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing after baking?

While it’s best frozen before baking, you can freeze leftover baked pot pie. Wrap it tightly and reheat in the oven for best results, though the crust may be less crispy after reheating.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy.

How can I make the crust more flaky?

Use very cold butter and minimal handling when mixing the dough. Chilling the dough before rolling helps the butter create those flaky pastry layers.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to add diced potatoes, green beans, or corn to customize the filling to your taste. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something timeless and truly satisfying about a Chicken Wild Rice Pot Pie that brings together wholesome ingredients and cozy flavors in the best way possible. I hope this recipe inspires you to experience the comfort and joy of home-cooked goodness, whether for a family dinner or a special occasion. Once you try this pot pie, it just might become a staple in your kitchen, too!