If you’re following a ketogenic diet but craving comfort food, a keto chicken pot pie is the perfect solution. This dish combines the savory goodness of traditional chicken pot pie with a low-carb twist, making it both delicious and diet-friendly. Here’s everything you need to know to create this mouth-watering keto chicken pot pie.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Enhances the chicken flavor.
- 1 cup mixed low-carb vegetables: Use a mix of celery, cauliflower, and green beans for texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the savory profile.
- 1/4 cup cream cheese: For a thicker, creamier filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum: Acts as a thickener to replace flour or cornstarch.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning to enhance flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter: For sautéing.
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour: A low-carb alternative to regular flour.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds structure and a hint of chewiness.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Helps bind the crust.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder.
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the mixed low-carb vegetables to the skillet and cook until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Add the cream cheese and continue stirring until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Thicken the Mixture: Sprinkle in the xanthan gum, whisking constantly to prevent clumping. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat while you prepare the crust.
Keto Chicken Pot Pie: A Delicious Low-Carb Comfort Food
Prepare the Crust:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, shredded mozzarella, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms.
- Roll the Dough: Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to fit the size of your baking dish.
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fill the Dish: Pour the chicken and vegetable filling into a baking dish.
- Top with the Crust: Carefully place the rolled-out crust over the filling, trimming any excess and sealing the edges.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve: Let the pot pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, savory filling with the perfectly crisp crust.
Tips for Success
- Use Pre-cooked Chicken: Save time by using leftover or rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust Vegetables: Feel free to swap in other low-carb vegetables based on your preferences.
- Crust Variations: For a different texture, you can use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour.
FAQs
1. What makes a chicken pot pie keto-friendly?
- A keto chicken pot pie is made with low-carb ingredients, such as almond flour for the crust instead of traditional wheat flour, and uses high-fat ingredients like heavy cream and cream cheese to keep the dish low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
2. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken with other meats like turkey, beef, or pork. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded or diced before adding it to the filling.
3. Are there any vegetarian options for this keto pot pie?
- To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a mix of your favorite low-carb vegetables. Ensure you adjust the seasoning and cook time accordingly.
4. How can I store leftover keto chicken pot pie?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
5. Can I freeze keto chicken pot pie?
- Yes, you can freeze the pot pie before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. If freezing after baking, let the pie cool completely, then wrap it well. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
6. What are some suitable low-carb vegetables for the filling?
- Good options for low-carb vegetables include cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini, green beans, spinach, and bell peppers. Avoid high-carb vegetables like potatoes, peas, and corn.
7. Can I make the crust dairy-free?
- Yes, you can make a dairy-free crust by using dairy-free cheese and coconut oil or ghee instead of butter. Ensure all ingredients used are compliant with your dietary needs.
8. What can I use instead of xanthan gum to thicken the filling?
- You can use other low-carb thickeners like guar gum, glucomannan (konjac flour), or simply let the cream cheese thicken the filling naturally. Adjust the amount based on your desired thickness.
9. How can I ensure the crust is crispy?
- To ensure a crispy crust, pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling, or brush the top with an egg wash before baking. This helps achieve a golden, crispy texture.
10. Is it possible to make mini keto chicken pot pies?
- Yes, you can make mini pot pies using a muffin tin or individual ramekins. Divide the filling and crust accordingly, and adjust the baking time to ensure the smaller pies are cooked through, typically around 15-20 minutes.
11. What if I don’t have almond flour?
- If you don’t have almond flour, you can use coconut flour, but you will need to adjust the quantity as coconut flour is more absorbent. Use about 1/3 the amount of coconut flour and increase the eggs to help bind the dough.
12. How many carbs are in a serving of keto chicken pot pie?
- The exact carb count will depend on the specific ingredients and portion size. On average, a serving of keto chicken pot pie may contain between 5-10 grams of net carbs. Always calculate based on the specific products you use.
Conclusion
Keto Chicken Pot Pie: A Delicious Low-Carb Comfort Food encapsulates the perfect blend of indulgence and dietary mindfulness. This recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a keto-friendly delight, maintaining the rich, creamy filling and savory flavors that make chicken pot pie a beloved dish. By using low-carb ingredients like almond flour and keto-friendly vegetables, you can enjoy a satisfying meal that aligns with your nutritional goals. Whether you’re new to the ketogenic diet or a seasoned follower, this keto chicken pot pie offers a hearty, delicious option that proves you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health. Embrace the comfort of this dish and enjoy a guilt-free culinary experience that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.