Reheating frozen chicken pot pie is a great way to enjoy this classic comfort food without having to make it from scratch.
Whether you have leftovers from a previous meal or you bought a frozen chicken pot pie from the store, reheating it is a simple process that can be done in a variety of ways.
In this article, I will share with you some tips and tricks on how to reheat frozen chicken pot pie to perfection.
Before you start reheating your chicken pot pie, there are a few things you need to do to ensure that it turns out perfectly. First, you need to take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
This will prevent the crust from getting soggy and ensure that the filling is evenly heated. Second, you need to preheat your oven to the right temperature and prepare an oven-safe dish or baking tray to place your pot pie on.
Key Takeaways
- Thaw your chicken pot pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it.
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature and prepare an oven-safe dish or baking tray.
- Reheating in the oven is the best method for achieving a crispy crust and evenly heated filling.
Preparing to Reheat Chicken Pot Pie
When it comes to reheating frozen chicken pot pie, preparation is key. There are a few steps you should follow to ensure that your pie turns out perfectly.
In this section, I’ll walk you through the process of preparing to reheat your chicken pot pie.
Thawing the Pie
If your chicken pot pie is frozen, you’ll need to thaw it before reheating it. The best way to do this is to move the pie from the freezer to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. This will give the pie enough time to thaw completely without allowing it to become too warm.
Preheating the Oven
Once your chicken pot pie is thawed, it’s time to start preheating your oven. Preheating your oven is important because it ensures that the pie will cook evenly and thoroughly. I recommend preheating your oven to 375°F.
To preheat your oven, simply turn it on and set the temperature to 375°F. It’s important to give your oven enough time to preheat, so I recommend allowing it to heat up for at least 10 minutes before putting the pie in.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to reheating a delicious chicken pot pie. In the next section, I’ll walk you through the process of actually reheating the pie in the oven.
Reheating in the Oven
When it comes to reheating frozen chicken pot pie, using the oven is the most popular method. It allows the pie to heat evenly and results in a crispy crust.
Here are some steps to follow when reheating your frozen chicken pot pie in the oven.
Using Aluminum Foil
To prevent the crust from burning, cover the pie with aluminum foil. This will also help to retain moisture and prevent the filling from drying out. Make sure to use an oven-safe dish or baking tray and wrap the foil tightly around the pie.
Setting the Temperature
Preheat your oven to 350°F. It’s important to heat the pie at a medium-high temperature to ensure that the interior is heated as much as the exterior of the pie. If the temperature is too high, the crust will be hot and start to burn, while the inner stuffing remains lukewarm.
Monitoring the Cooking Time
The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the pie. A general rule of thumb is to bake the pie for 30-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the filling. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil.
Remember to use oven mitts or gloves when handling the hot dish. Once the pie is heated through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Reheating frozen chicken pot pie in the oven is a simple and effective way to enjoy this classic dish.
Alternative Reheating Methods
If you don’t have access to an oven, there are other ways to reheat your frozen chicken pot pie. Here are some alternative methods you can try:
Using a Microwave
Using a microwave is a quick and easy way to reheat your frozen chicken pot pie. However, it may not produce the same crispy crust as an oven. Here’s how to do it:
- Remove the chicken pot pie from its packaging and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover the chicken pot pie with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
- Set the power level to 50% and microwave for 5-7 minutes or until the filling is hot.
Using an Air Fryer
An air fryer is another great option for reheating your frozen chicken pot pie. It can produce a crispy crust similar to an oven. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
- Remove the chicken pot pie from its packaging and place it in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the filling is hot and the crust is crispy.
On the Stove
Reheating your frozen chicken pot pie on the stove is another option. It may take longer than using a microwave or air fryer, but it can produce a crispy crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Remove the chicken pot pie from its packaging and place it in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the filling is hot and the crust is crispy.
It’s important to note that the reheating time may vary depending on the power setting of your microwave or air fryer, the size of your chicken pot pie, and the thickness of the crust.
Always check the temperature of the filling with a thermometer to ensure it is fully heated. Additionally, you can cover the chicken pot pie with a lid or foil to prevent the crust from burning.
Ensuring Food Safety and Quality
As someone who enjoys eating chicken pot pie, it is important to ensure that the reheated pie is not only tasty but also safe to eat.
Here are some tips to ensure that your reheated chicken pot pie is both safe and delicious.
Checking Internal Temperature
One of the most important things to consider when reheating chicken pot pie is the internal temperature. According to the USDA, chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that any harmful bacteria are killed.
Therefore, it is important to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken pot pie before consuming it.
To check the internal temperature of the pie, insert the food thermometer into the center of the pie. Make sure that the thermometer is not touching any bones or the crust as this can give you an inaccurate reading.
If the temperature is below 165°F (74°C), place the pie back in the oven and continue reheating until it reaches the recommended temperature.
Achieving Desired Texture
Another important aspect of reheating chicken pot pie is achieving the desired texture. While the pie should be heated thoroughly to ensure food safety, it is also important to maintain the flaky crust and achieve a crispy texture.
To achieve this, it is recommended to reheat the chicken pot pie in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie in an oven-safe dish. Cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from burning.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your reheated chicken pot pie is not only safe to eat but also maintains its delicious flavor and texture.
Serving and Storage
When it comes to serving and storing leftover chicken pot pie, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you have a delicious meal every time.
Letting the Pie Rest
Before serving, it’s important to let the pie rest for a few minutes after reheating. This allows the filling to settle and the crust to become crisp again. I recommend letting the pie rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover chicken pot pie, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store, simply wrap the slices or the entire pie in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator.
If you want to store the chicken pot pie for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap the slices or the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and place it in the freezer.
When you’re ready to reheat a chicken pot pie, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, follow the reheating instructions for a frozen chicken pot pie.
To serve with sides, I recommend pairing your chicken pot pie with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. This will balance out the richness of the pie and add some extra nutrients to your meal.
In summary, by following these simple tips for serving and storing your chicken pot pie, you can enjoy a delicious meal every time.
Additional Tips for Best Results
Preventing Sogginess
Nobody likes a soggy chicken pot pie, and fortunately, there are a few easy ways to prevent this from happening. First, make sure to let the pie cool down for a few minutes after reheating. This will give the filling time to set and prevent it from becoming too runny.
Another way to prevent sogginess is to use a non-stick spray on the bottom of the pie dish before reheating. This will help to crisp up the crust and prevent it from getting too moist.
If you’re reheating a homemade chicken pot pie, consider adding a layer of roasted vegetables to the filling. This will help to absorb any excess moisture and add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Enhancing Flavor
To enhance the flavor of your reheated chicken pot pie, there are a few simple tricks you can try. First, consider adding a small amount of cream or milk to the filling before reheating. This will help to keep the filling moist and add a rich, creamy base to the dish.
Another way to enhance the flavor is to add some herbs or spices to the filling. Try adding a pinch of thyme or rosemary for a savory, earthy flavor, or a dash of paprika for a slightly spicy kick.
Finally, if you’re reheating a meat pie, consider cutting it into smaller pieces before reheating. This will help to ensure that the filling is evenly heated and will prevent any cold spots from forming.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your reheated chicken pot pie is both delicious and satisfying.
Whether you’re using a store-bought pie, a KFC chicken pot pie, or a homemade recipe, these tips will help you get the most out of your reheating method.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best temperature to reheat a chicken pot pie in the oven?
The best temperature to reheat a chicken pot pie in the oven is 350°F. Preheat the oven to 350°F and place the frozen pot pie in the oven.
Reheat for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures that the pot pie is fully heated through and safe to eat.
How long should you microwave a frozen chicken pot pie for reheating?
Microwaving a frozen chicken pot pie is not recommended as it can lead to uneven heating and a soggy crust.
However, if you must use a microwave, remove the pot pie from its packaging and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Is it safe to reheat a chicken pot pie more than once?
No, it is not safe to reheat a chicken pot pie more than once. Reheating the pot pie multiple times can lead to bacterial growth and increase the risk of foodborne illness. It is recommended to reheat the pot pie only once and consume it immediately after reheating.
What are the steps to reheating a chicken pot pie in a toaster oven?
To reheat a chicken pot pie in a toaster oven, preheat the toaster oven to 350°F. Remove the pot pie from its packaging and place it in an oven-safe dish. Place the dish in the toaster oven and reheat for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can you reheat a chicken pot pie in a convection oven, and if so, how?
Yes, you can reheat a chicken pot pie in a convection oven. Preheat the convection oven to 350°F and place the frozen pot pie in the oven. Reheat for 30-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
The convection oven will circulate the hot air, resulting in even heating and a crispy crust.
Should a frozen chicken pot pie be thawed before reheating, and what method is recommended?
It is not necessary to thaw a frozen chicken pot pie before reheating. In fact, it is recommended to reheat the pot pie directly from frozen to prevent bacterial growth. Follow the reheating instructions provided by the manufacturer or use the methods outlined in this article.
