Copycat KFC Festive Pot Pie Recipe

23

Nothing captures that cozy holiday vibe better than KFC Festive Pot Pie. It’s the ultimate comfort food – flaky golden crust, tender chicken, creamy gravy, and wholesome veggies all baked together into one deliciously satisfying dish.

How to make KFC Festive Pot Pie

KFC Festive Pot Pie is a limited-time holiday version of KFC’s classic chicken pot pie, offered during the festive season (usually around Thanksgiving and Christmas).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your version of the KFC Festive Pot Pie:

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or cook fresh chicken)
• 1 cup cubed potatoes, peeled and cooked
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (you can substitute with fresh if you prefer)
• 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional, but it adds an extra layer of sweetness)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional for a flavor boost)
• 2 cups chicken stock or broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crust:

• 1 package of refrigerated pie crust dough (or homemade pie crust if you prefer)
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the crust to get that golden-brown color)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Cook and shred the chicken if you’re not using pre-cooked or leftover chicken.
2. Boil the cubed potatoes until tender (not mushy) and set them aside. Thaw the frozen peas and carrots if needed.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Gravy

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (this thickens the gravy).
2. Slowly add the chicken stock, a little at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3. Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, and salt and pepper. Allow the gravy to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the shredded chicken, pre-cooked potatoes, peas, carrots, and corn to the gravy. Stir well until everything is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pot Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out your pie crust dough and cut it into circles slightly larger than the dish(es) you’re using. Small ramekins or an 8×8-inch baking dish work well.
3. Pour the creamy chicken filling into the dish(es), leaving a little space at the top.

Step 4: Add the Crust

1. Gently lay the pie crust over the filling and press the edges down against the dish to seal it. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
2. Cut a few small slits in the center of the crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
3. Brush the crust with the beaten egg to give it that beautiful golden, shiny finish.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the pot pies on a baking sheet to catch any bubbling over and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes (or until the crust is golden brown and flaky).

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Let the pot pies cool for about 5-10 minutes after removing them from the oven. Serve warm and enjoy your homemade KFC Festive Pot Pie!

Tips for Perfect Festive Pot Pies

• Shortcut Option: If you’re short on time, you can replace the homemade creamy gravy with canned cream of chicken soup. Just thin it out with a bit of milk or chicken broth before adding the chicken and vegetables.
• Customize the Veggies: Don’t like peas or corn? Swap them for green beans, mushrooms, or parsnips. The filling is versatile, so use your favorite vegetables!
• Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Save prep time by using leftover chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken.
• Homemade Crust (Optional): While store-bought crust is quicker and easier, you can make your own for a more personal touch. Use a simple pie crust recipe with flour, butter, salt, and cold water.
• Check Your Crust: Keep an eye on the crust as it bakes. If it’s browning too quickly but the filling isn’t bubbling yet, cover it loosely with foil to avoid burning.
• Make It Ahead: The filling can be made a day in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pies.

What to serve with

A warm, flaky KFC Festive Pot Pie is already a meal in itself, with its creamy filling packed with chicken and veggies. However, serving it alongside complementary sides, salads, or even light desserts can take your dining experience to the next level.

1. Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: The ultimate comfort pairing! Creamy mashed potatoes with classic chicken or turkey gravy complement the rich filling of the pot pie without overpowering it. The fluffy potatoes balance the meal, and any leftover gravy can be used as a topping for the pot pie itself.

2. Buttered Green Beans: Fresh green beans sautéed in butter and garlic make a simple, light side dish. The slight crunch and earthy flavor of green beans offer a great contrast to the creamy texture of the pot pie filling.

3. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy-sweet cranberry sauce provides a zesty contrast to the savory flavor of the pot pie. It works especially well if you’re serving the pot pie during the holiday season, as it adds a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients Substitutes

Maybe you’re missing a few ingredients, dealing with dietary restrictions, or simply looking to add your own twist to the recipe. Whatever the case, the KFC Festive Pot Pie is incredibly versatile, and you can easily swap out some ingredients without sacrificing flavor or texture.

1. Chicken

The shredded chicken is the star of the filling, but if you’re out of chicken or seeking alternatives:

• Turkey: Perfect for a post-Thanksgiving twist, leftover roasted turkey works as a seamless substitute.
• Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re pressed for time, grab a rotisserie chicken from the store. It’s already cooked, flavorful, and easy to shred.
• Ham: Diced ham can add a rich, salty twist, making the pie feel extra festive for the holidays.
• Vegetarian Options: Opt for cooked chickpeas, lentils, or hearty mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini). These provide a meaty texture while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.

2. Potatoes

If you’re out of potatoes or looking for variations:

• Sweet Potatoes or Yams: For a slightly sweeter, autumnal flavor, swap in diced sweet potatoes.
• Parsnips: Another root vegetable with a mild sweetness, parsnips work beautifully in the pot pie filling.
• Butternut Squash: Diced and roasted squash can replace potatoes for a sweet and nutty flavor.
• Turnips: These add an earthy flavor and hold their shape well when cooked.

3. Veggies (Peas, Carrots, Corn)

Vegetables play an important role in the filling, providing both texture and freshness. If you’re missing classic options like peas or carrots:

• Green Beans: These can be chopped into small pieces and used as a direct substitute for peas.
• Diced Zucchini or Yellow Squash: A tender vegetable that works great in a creamy filling.
• Mixed Frozen Vegetables: If you’re in a time crunch, grab a bag of mixed frozen vegetables, often containing peas, carrots, green beans, and corn.
• Spinach or Kale: Both leafy greens add extra nutrients. Chop and sauté them before adding them to the filling.
• Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can replace a portion of the vegetables for an earthy, umami flavor.

4. Heavy Cream/Milk

Heavy cream makes the gravy rich and creamy, but there are plenty of dairy and non-dairy substitutes:

• Half-and-Half or Whole Milk: These make excellent substitutes for heavy cream if you’re looking for slightly lighter gravy.
• Dairy-Free Milk: Unsweetened oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk can work well, especially for those who are lactose-intolerant or vegan (opt for a neutral-flavored milk).
• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Mix it with some broth to achieve the creamy consistency, but note that it might add a slight tang to the gravy.
• Cashew Cream: Blend soaked cashews into a smooth puree, and add it as a rich, plant-based alternative to heavy cream.

Final Thoughts

This KFC Festive Pot Pie recipe is perfect for cold evenings, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, nostalgic dish.

More KFC Recipes:

• Copycat KFC Pie Poppers Recipe