Golden-brown mini chicken pot pies stacked on parchment paper, with a flaky crust and visible filling of peas, carrots, and shredded chicken.

Looking for a bite-sized twist on a classic comfort food? Mini Chicken Pot Pies deliver everything you love—flaky crust, rich creamy filling, and tender chicken—in a fun, handheld version that’s perfect for parties, picnics, and weeknight dinners. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or starting from scratch, these mini pies are fast to assemble and guaranteed to disappear fast. In this guide, we’ll break down everything from ingredients to baking tips, storage, and make-ahead options to help you master these flaky favorites.

Don’t miss our creamy scalloped potatoes recipe if you’re planning a comfort food feast to go with these pies!

JUMP TO

Why Mini Chicken Pot Pies Are the Perfect Comfort Food

Mini chicken pot pies combine nostalgia and convenience in a single bite. They bring back warm memories of homestyle meals, but in a portable, party-friendly format. You get the same velvety filling and buttery crust as a full-sized pie—just downsized for easier serving. Plus, their personal size makes them perfect for picky eaters or guests with different dietary needs.

They’re also one of the few appetizers that feel hearty. Unlike chips or dips, mini pot pies are actually filling. You can serve them alone as a snack, or pair them with a light salad for a casual meal.

Ideal Occasions to Serve Mini Pot Pies

These pies shine on any occasion where finger food is needed:

  • Game day snacks: They hold up well, even when made in advance.
  • Holiday parties: Freeze them ahead and bake right before guests arrive.
  • Family dinners: Kids love them—and adults go back for seconds.
  • Potlucks: They travel well and reheat beautifully.
  • Appetizer platters: Add variety with other mini items like sliders or wings.

Discover great ideas like pizza skulls – spooky mini pizzas for Halloween for themed party inspiration.

Kid-Friendly, Party-Ready, and Freezer-Friendly

One of the biggest advantages of these mini pies? They’re incredibly freezer-friendly. You can assemble a batch, freeze them raw, and bake straight from frozen. That means less stress and more time to enjoy your event.

They’re also totally kid-approved. With familiar flavors and zero mystery ingredients, you won’t get any complaints. You can even sneak in more vegetables without much fuss—especially if you finely chop or use a frozen veggie mix.

Looking for inspiration? Try our slow cooker chicken and gravy for another make-ahead comfort meal.

Key Ingredients That Make These Mini Chicken Pot Pies Irresistible

Every bite of a mini chicken pot pie is a perfect harmony of savory, creamy, and crisp. But what really makes them shine is the thoughtful combination of ingredients. Let’s break down what goes into making this recipe absolutely unforgettable—and easy to replicate.

Chicken Options: Rotisserie, Leftover, or Freshly Cooked

Using cooked chicken is a game-changer in this recipe. You can use:

  • Rotisserie chicken – convenient, flavorful, and tender.
  • Leftover roast chicken or turkey – a great way to avoid food waste.
  • Freshly cooked breast or thigh meat – sauté or bake and dice.

Whatever you use, make sure it’s diced into small, uniform pieces so it fits neatly in the mini pie shells and heats evenly. Dark meat adds richness, while white meat gives a leaner bite.

Check out crock pot chicken and rice recipe if you want another cozy chicken dinner idea.

Best Vegetables to Use: Frozen, Fresh, or Canned

Mini pot pies are the perfect way to sneak in veggies. Most versions call for:

  • Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • Optional tinned mushrooms for umami depth
  • Or even sautéed fresh onions, celery, and garlic for a homemade touch

The beauty of frozen veggies? No chopping required. They’re already cooked, which helps the filling come together faster.

Want something with a similar hearty profile? Discover our stuffed pepper casserole for a veggie-loaded weeknight winner.

Choosing the Right Pastry: Why Shortcrust Works Best

Here’s where many recipes go wrong—using puff pastry. While puff sounds fancy, it often overwhelms these small pies, making them feel too bready. Shortcrust pastry is the winner for mini pies.

Why shortcrust?

  • It’s flaky but firm, so it holds the creamy filling without going soggy.
  • It allows the flavor of the filling to stand out, not get buried.
  • It’s easy to work with and available pre-rolled in most grocery stores.

Avoid using biscuit dough unless you’re making larger muffin-sized pies. For authentic texture and taste, stick with shortcrust.

The Secret to a Creamy, Flavorful Filling

That luscious interior you bite into? It’s a simple homemade sauce that starts with a roux (butter and flour), then builds flavor with:

  • Evaporated milk or cream for richness
  • Chicken stock for savory depth
  • Parmesan cheese for a subtle, salty boost
  • Herbs like thyme and parsley for brightness

It only takes a few minutes to cook on the stovetop, but adds incredible flavor and creaminess without being heavy. No canned soup here—just from-scratch goodness.

Don’t miss our white chicken chili recipe if you’re into creamy, cozy, protein-packed dinners.

How to Make Mini Chicken Pot Pies Step-by-Step

Making these flaky, creamy pies at home is easier than you think. Follow this straightforward process to achieve bakery-quality results without the stress.

Tools You’ll Need (Patty Tin, Cutters, Pastry Brush)

Before you start, make sure you have these tools on hand:

  • Patty tin or muffin tin
  • Round pastry cutters (5cm and 6cm work well)
  • Pastry brush for egg wash
  • Sharp knife for venting the tops
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon for filling

Using the right tools ensures clean assembly, crisp pastry edges, and even baking.

Making the Creamy Chicken Filling

Here’s how to make the delicious filling in just 10–15 minutes:

  1. Sauté aromatics – In a pan, melt butter and oil, then sauté garlic and red onion.
  2. Make the roux – Stir in flour and cook for a minute to eliminate the raw taste.
  3. Add liquids – Slowly stir in evaporated milk and chicken stock.
  4. Season – Mix in herbs, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.
  5. Add the veggies and chicken – Fold in frozen vegetables and diced cooked chicken.

Let the mixture cool in the fridge before assembling the pies—this prevents soggy crusts.

Assembling with Store-Bought Pastry

Once your filling is cold:

  1. Cut pastry rounds – Use the larger round for the base and smaller one for the top.
  2. Grease the pan – Lightly oil your tin to prevent sticking.
  3. Fill and seal – Press the large pastry into the holes, fill with chicken mixture, cover with the small round, and pinch the edges.
  4. Egg wash and vent – Brush tops with beaten egg and cut a small slit for steam to escape.
  5. Optional toppings – Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds for extra crunch.

Looking for inspiration? Try our apple hand pies flaky crust recipe to master mini pie shaping.

Baking Tips for Golden, Flaky Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Prepping the Oven and Tins

  • Preheat to 350°F (180°C)
  • Use a conventional oven for even heat distribution
  • Bake directly in the center rack for best airflow

Egg Wash, Seed Toppings & Vents

  • Egg wash gives that gorgeous golden sheen
  • Seeds are optional, but they add texture
  • Slits in the top are crucial—steam release prevents sogginess

Timing and Temperature for Perfect Results

  • Bake for 25 minutes until tops are golden brown
  • If frozen, bake for 30 minutes straight from freezer
  • Rest for 5 minutes before serving to avoid burning your mouth

Serving Suggestions and Storage Ideas

What to Serve with Mini Pot Pies

Pair with:

  • Light green salad
  • Roasted baby potatoes
  • Pickles or coleslaw for contrast

They’re also great on appetizer platters with candy cane cookies or cranberry meatballs.

How to Reheat Without Losing Crispness

  • Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10–12 minutes
  • Avoid microwaving—they’ll get soggy
  • Air fryers also work great for quick reheats

Storing in Fridge vs. Freezer: What to Know

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Freezer (Unbaked): Freeze in tins, transfer to container when solid. Bake from frozen.
  • Freezer (Baked): Reheat from frozen at 325°F for 20–25 minutes

FAQ About Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Can I Use Puff Pastry or Biscuit Dough?

You can, but shortcrust is better for minis. Puff gets too airy and biscuit dough might need adjustments. If using those, make larger pies in muffin tins for best results.

Can I Make These Gluten-Free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and opt for gluten-free pastry.

How Do I Prevent Soggy Bottoms?

Let the filling cool before assembling, don’t overfill, and use egg wash. Baking on a hot oven rack helps crisp the base too.

Can I Use Turkey Instead of Chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey works perfectly in this recipe and is a great way to use leftovers after the holidays.

Conclusion: Why These Mini Chicken Pot Pies Deserve a Spot on Your Party Menu

Mini Chicken Pot Pies check all the boxes: they’re hearty, handheld, freezer-friendly, and undeniably delicious. From game days to holiday gatherings, these bite-sized savory pies are always a hit. With a creamy homemade filling, buttery shortcrust pastry, and endless customization options, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Don’t miss our slow cooker beef curry recipe if you’re craving more warm, savory comfort food dishes.

Print

Mini Chicken Pot Pies

Golden-brown mini chicken pot pies stacked on parchment paper, with a flaky crust and visible filling of peas, carrots, and shredded chicken.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Mini Chicken Pot Pies are savory, bite-sized pastries filled with creamy chicken and vegetable filling, wrapped in crisp shortcrust pastry. Perfect for parties, game days, or make-ahead meals.

  • Author: gemma
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 40 pies
  • Category: Appetizer, Canape, Finger Food
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Various
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 3 tablespoons butter (42g / 1.5oz)
  • 1 small clove garlic, crushed
  • ½ red onion, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup plain flour (65g / 2.3oz)
  • 1 cup chicken stock (250ml)
  • ¾ cup evaporated milk (or whole milk, half n half or cream) (180ml)
  • 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs (e.g., thyme and parsley)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan
  • 1 ¼ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, small dice
  • Pepper to taste
  • 5 sheets pre-rolled shortcrust pastry
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 2 teaspoons nigella seeds or black sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the oil and butter over medium heat until melted.
  2. Add garlic and onion; sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.
  4. Slowly drizzle in evaporated milk, stirring to form a creamy roux.
  5. Add chicken stock and mix until smooth.
  6. Add herbs, salt, and Parmesan; stir until melted and thickened.
  7. Mix in frozen vegetables and diced cooked chicken. Season with pepper.
  8. Chill the filling in the fridge.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
  10. Cut 8x 6cm and 8x 5cm pastry circles per sheet.
  11. Grease patty or muffin tins, press larger pastry round into each hole.
  12. Fill each with 1½ tablespoons of filling.
  13. Top with smaller pastry round, seal edges, and cut a small vent on top.
  14. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with seeds (optional).
  15. Bake for 25 minutes until golden brown (30 if frozen).

Notes

  • Use shortcrust pastry for best texture and flavor.
  • Filling must be cooled before assembling to avoid soggy crust.
  • Freeze unbaked pies in tins until solid, then transfer to container.
  • Bake frozen pies directly without thawing.
  • You can use turkey instead of chicken for variation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 mini pie
  • Calories: 97
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 186mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.4g
  • Trans Fat: 0.002g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star