Creamy Curry-Spiced Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Chicken Curry Pie

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

Dough

• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/4 cup butter
• 5 tablespoons ice water

Filling

• 1/3 cup butter
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup plain whole milk yogurt
• 1 tart apple, cored and chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 large egg, beaten

Directions

Step 1: For the dough, combine flour, curry powder, and salt in the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until combined.

Step 2: Add the vegetable shortening and cold butter, then pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 3: Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing after each addition until the dough comes together.

Step 4: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill until ready to use, or up to 24 hours.

Step 5: For the filling, melt butter in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, onion, celery, carrots, and curry powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes, or until the onion is softened.

Step 6: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. When it reads 165F (74C), reduce the heat to medium.

Step 7: Stir in the flour and cook, stirring frequently, for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 8: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and yogurt, and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 9: Stir in the apple, cilantro, salt, pepper, and thyme.

Step 10: Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).

Step 11: To assemble the pie, lightly flour your work surface. Unwrap the chilled dough and roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness.

Step 12: Use a 2 1/2- to 3-inch cookie cutter to cut shapes from the dough. Arrange these shapes over the filling, overlapping where necessary to fully cover it.

Step 13: Brush the dough shapes with the beaten egg.

Step 14: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 15: Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	838
Total Fat	47g	61%
Saturated Fat	25g	123%
Cholesterol	225mg	75%
Sodium	732mg	32%
Total Carbohydrate	56g	20%
Dietary Fiber	5g	18%
Total Sugars	9g
Protein	47g	94%
Vitamin C	6mg	7%
Calcium	118mg	9%
Iron	5mg	26%
Potassium	768mg	16%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Creamy Curry-Spiced Chicken Pot Pie

The chicken pot pie, a classic comfort food in American cuisine, traces its roots back to European meat pies brought by early settlers. Traditional recipes featured simple combinations of meat, vegetables, and a thickened gravy encased in a pastry shell. The addition of curry powder, however, is a more modern twist that reflects the growing influence of global flavors in contemporary home cooking. Curry-spiced versions of chicken pie likely emerged in the late 20th century, as home cooks began experimenting with Indian-inspired spices to add warmth, aroma, and a subtle complexity to familiar dishes.

Regional Variations

While the classic American chicken pot pie is most commonly associated with the Northeastern United States, regional variations have incorporated local ingredients. In the South, for instance, recipes often include sweet potatoes or okra, while in the Midwest, heavier cream-based sauces are used to achieve a richer texture. The use of curry powder, apples, and cilantro in this particular recipe represents a fusion approach, blending traditional American comfort food with Indian-inspired spices, creating a dish that is both savory and slightly sweet, with aromatic layers that appeal to modern palates.

Distinguishing Features

This creamy curry-spiced chicken pot pie stands out from traditional pot pies in several ways. The use of curry powder infuses the filling with a fragrant, mildly spicy flavor that complements the tender chicken and vegetables. The addition of plain yogurt lightens the sauce while adding a subtle tang, and the inclusion of chopped apple introduces a sweet, fruity contrast. Unlike typical chicken pies that rely solely on a buttery gravy, this version achieves a nuanced balance between sweet, savory, and spicy elements, making it distinctly memorable.

Typical Serving Occasions

Creamy curry-spiced chicken pot pie is commonly served as a hearty dinner dish, particularly during cooler months when warm, filling meals are most comforting. It is often enjoyed in family-style settings or at casual gatherings, sometimes accompanied by a simple side salad or roasted vegetables. Some restaurants and bistros with a focus on contemporary comfort food have also started featuring curry-spiced variations on their menus, highlighting the growing popularity of international flavors in classic dishes.

Interesting Facts

• Despite its curry infusion, this dish remains firmly rooted in the tradition of American pot pies, demonstrating how global flavors can be adapted into local favorites.
• The use of apple in the filling is inspired by the British pork and apple pairing, showing a creative crossover of culinary traditions.
• Curry-spiced chicken pies are a favorite for meal prep, as the flavors often deepen when the pie is reheated, making leftovers particularly delicious.
• The technique of rolling dough into small shapes for the top crust, as seen in this recipe, is a playful twist that also allows for faster baking and a crispier finish.
• This recipes combination of protein, vegetables, and spice makes it a nutrient-dense meal, offering both comfort and a satisfying balance of flavors.

FAQ about Creamy Curry-Spiced Chicken Pot Pie Recipe

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