MINI CHICKEN POT PIES

Ingredients:

• For the filling:
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the crust:
  • 1 package (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie dough)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
   1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until no longer pink. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
   2. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
   3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   4. Gradually stir in the chicken broth and milk. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
   5. Add the cooked chicken, peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Pot Pies:
   1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   2. Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles that are slightly larger than your muffin tin cups (about 3 inches in diameter).
   3. Gently press the dough circles into the muffin tin cups, ensuring they cover the bottom and sides.
   4. Spoon the chicken filling into each dough-lined cup.
   5. Use additional pie crust circles to cover the top of each mini pie. You can also use dough scraps to create decorative shapes or lattice tops.
   6. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
3. Bake:
   1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
   2. Allow the mini pot pies to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious, handheld chicken pot pies! They’re perfect for a cozy meal or as a fun appetizer for a gathering.