Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the hearty, savory goodness of a Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole. This dish takes all the beloved flavors of a traditional chicken pot pie and transforms them into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even potluck dinners. With its golden, biscuit-like topping and creamy, flavorful filling, this casserole is guaranteed to become a staple in your dinner rotation.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this delicious Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole, from the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to tips, variations, and nutritional information. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole
- Easy to Make: Unlike traditional chicken pot pie, which requires making a crust from scratch, this casserole uses a convenient biscuit mix for the topping, saving you time and effort.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy filling and fluffy biscuit topping.
- Versatile: You can customize the ingredients to suit your taste or use up leftovers.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd, whether it’s your family or guests at a potluck.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, hearty, and satisfying, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
- 1/2 cup melted butter, divided
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 12 ounces frozen peas and carrots (no need to thaw)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) low-sodium cream of chicken soup (undiluted)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 box (11 ounces) Cheddar Bay Biscuits Mix, seasoning packet divided
- 1/2 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the topping turns golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Dish
Pour half of the melted butter into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly to coat the bottom of the dish.
Step 3: Layer the Chicken and Veggies
Spread the shredded chicken in an even layer at the bottom of the dish. Next, add the frozen peas and carrots on top. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper evenly over the chicken and veggies. Do not stir at this stage.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies. Again, do not stir.
Step 5: Prepare the Biscuit Topping
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, biscuit mix, half of the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix, and the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the soup layer in the casserole dish. Do not stir.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Touch
While the casserole is baking, mix the remaining melted butter with the rest of the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix. Once the casserole is out of the oven, brush this seasoned butter over the biscuit topping for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 8: Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve.
The History and Evolution of Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries, with roots tracing back to medieval Europe. Originally known as a “pottage pie,” it was a way to use up leftover meats and vegetables by encasing them in a pastry crust. The dish gained popularity in England during the Tudor period, where it was often served at banquets and feasts. Early versions of pot pie were made with a variety of meats, including beef, lamb, and poultry, and were typically baked in a thick, sturdy crust that acted as a cooking vessel.
When European settlers brought the concept of pot pie to America, it evolved to reflect local ingredients and tastes. In the United States, chicken became the most popular protein for pot pies, and the dish became a staple of home cooking. The addition of creamy sauces and flaky crusts transformed it into the comfort food we know and love today. Over time, variations like the Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole emerged, offering a simpler, more convenient way to enjoy the same flavors without the fuss of making a traditional pie crust.
The casserole version of chicken pot pie is a modern twist that caters to busy lifestyles. By replacing the crust with a biscuit topping, this dish retains all the savory goodness of the original while being easier to prepare. The Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole is a testament to how classic recipes can adapt to changing times, making them accessible to new generations of home cooks.
Why Casseroles Are the Ultimate Comfort Food
Casseroles have long been a favorite in home kitchens, and for good reason. These one-dish wonders are the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth, flavor, and convenience in every bite. The Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole is no exception, combining the heartiness of a traditional pot pie with the ease of a casserole.
One of the main reasons casseroles are so beloved is their versatility. You can customize them to suit your taste or use whatever ingredients you have on hand. For example, the Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole allows you to swap out the chicken for turkey or add your favorite vegetables. This adaptability makes casseroles a great option for using up leftovers or catering to dietary preferences.
Another advantage of casseroles is their simplicity. Most casseroles, including this one, require minimal prep work and can be assembled in just a few steps. Once everything is layered in the dish, the oven does the rest of the work. This makes casseroles ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re feeding a crowd.
Finally, casseroles are incredibly satisfying. The combination of protein, vegetables, and a creamy or cheesy sauce creates a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The biscuit topping on the Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole adds a delightful texture contrast, making each bite a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.
Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole Game
Making a great casserole is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you master the art of casserole cooking, whether you’re making a Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole or any other dish:
- Choose the Right Dish: Use a high-quality, oven-safe casserole dish that distributes heat evenly. A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for most recipes, including this one.
- Layer Ingredients Properly: Follow the recipe instructions for layering ingredients. For the Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole, this means placing the chicken and veggies on the bottom, followed by the creamy sauce and biscuit topping.
- Don’t Overmix: One of the keys to a great casserole is keeping the layers distinct. Avoid stirring the ingredients once they’re in the dish, as this can disrupt the texture and cooking process.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While frozen veggies and pre-cooked chicken are convenient, using fresh ingredients whenever possible can elevate the flavor of your casserole.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to add herbs, spices, or extra cheese to enhance the flavor. For the Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole, the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix adds a delicious kick.
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow your casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to portion.
- Experiment with Variations: Once you’ve mastered the basics, try experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. For example, you could add bacon, swap the chicken for beef, or use a different type of cheese.
Variations to Try
- Turkey Pot Pie Cobbler: Swap the chicken for leftover turkey to create a delicious post-Thanksgiving meal.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth and extra veggies for a meatless option.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling for a bit of heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 496kcal
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 31g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
- Sodium: 1072mg
- Potassium: 740mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 4728IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 224mg
- Iron: 2mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Just make sure to chop them into small, bite-sized pieces and cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole.
What can I serve with this dish?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic Made Easy
This Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of chicken pot pie with the ease of a casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is simple to prepare and uses familiar ingredients like shredded chicken, frozen veggies, and a biscuit topping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients
- ½ cup melted butter, divided
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 12 ounces frozen peas and carrots (no need to thaw)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) low-sodium cream of chicken soup (undiluted)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 box (11 ounces) Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (seasoning packet divided)
- ½ cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Pour half of the melted butter into a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Layer Chicken and Veggies: Spread the shredded chicken evenly in the dish. Add the frozen peas and carrots on top. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Do not stir.
- Mix Soup and Broth: In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and veggies. Do not stir.
- Prepare Biscuit Topping: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, biscuit mix, half of the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this mixture evenly over the soup layer. Do not stir.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Seasoned Butter Topping: While the casserole bakes, mix the remaining melted butter with the rest of the seasoning packet. Once the casserole is out of the oven, brush this seasoned butter over the biscuit topping.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set slightly. Scoop into bowls or plates and enjoy!
Notes
- Bisquick Option: If you don’t have Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, you can use Bisquick for the topping.
- Turkey Variation: Swap the chicken for leftover turkey to make a turkey pot pie casserole.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to use your favorite vegetables instead of peas and carrots.
Nutrition
- Calories: 496kcal per serving
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1072mg
- Fat: 26g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Pot Pie Cobbler Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With its creamy filling, tender chicken, and fluffy biscuit topping, it’s a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this casserole is sure to be a hit.