Slow-Cooked Pie Crust: Crock-Pot Magic

can you cook pie crust in a crock pot

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that can be made in a crockpot. The slow cooker method is ideal for tenderizing less expensive cuts of meat and reducing time spent in the kitchen. While some recipes call for biscuits or crescent rolls as a topping, others suggest using a pie crust. Pie crusts can be store-bought or homemade and placed at the bottom and/or top of the crockpot. However, some cooks have experienced issues with burning and crispiness when using pie crusts in crockpots.

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Chicken crock pot pie recipes

Chicken crock pot pie is a delicious comfort food that can be made with minimal effort. It is an easy recipe that does not require complicated ingredients. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and repurpose leftovers. Here is a guide on how to make chicken crock pot pie:

Ingredients:

  • Chicken (breasts or thighs)
  • Vegetables of choice (carrots, celery, corn, peas, green beans, etc.)
  • Potatoes
  • Chicken broth
  • Spices (thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, poultry seasoning)
  • Cream or milk
  • Corn starch or flour
  • Crescent dough or biscuits

Method:

  • Place the chicken in the crock pot and pour chicken broth over it.
  • Add your desired vegetables and potatoes. You can also add spices such as thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, take it out, shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces, and put it back into the crock pot.
  • Stir in cream or milk, and if you want to thicken the sauce, add a corn starch slurry (corn starch mixed with cold water or chicken broth).
  • Cook the mixture on high for about 30 minutes until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
  • If using crescent dough, cut it into strips and lay them over the chicken mixture.
  • Cook on high for 30-60 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
  • If using biscuits, prepare them according to the package directions or a homemade recipe.
  • Serve the chicken pot pie mixture on top of or alongside the biscuits.

Tips:

  • You can assemble the ingredients in the crock pot and keep it in the fridge for up to 48 hours before cooking.
  • If using potatoes, they may require additional cooking time. Consider cooking them separately and adding them towards the end.
  • You can also make this recipe in a pie crust by preparing the filling in the crock pot and then baking it in the oven with a store-bought or homemade pie crust.
  • If you prefer a creamier pot pie, use heavy cream instead of milk.

Chicken crock pot pie is a versatile and tasty dish that can be easily adapted to your preferences. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious meal!

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Crust cooking times

There are several ways to cook a pie crust in a crock pot, with cooking times varying depending on the method chosen.

One method is to cook the pie filling separately in the crock pot, and then transfer it to a pie crust afterwards. This way, the crust doesn't come into contact with the crock pot at all, and can be cooked in an oven, as per traditional pie recipes.

Another method is to cook the pie filling in the crock pot, and then add a pre-made or store-bought pie crust on top of the filling. The crock pot lid is then replaced, and the pie cooks for an additional hour or so, until the crust is golden brown and crispy. This method is ideal for those who want to avoid dirtying a second pan, as the crust cooks right in the crock pot.

A third method is to cook the pie filling in the crock pot for 4-5 hours, and then place a second, uncooked pie crust on top. The crock pot is then covered with a lid and cooked for an additional 30 minutes. This method allows for a pie with a top and bottom crust, without having to bake the pie in an oven.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of crock pot or slow cooker being used, as well as individual preferences for the doneness of the crust. Some recipes suggest cooking the pie on a "low" setting, while others recommend cooking it on "high". It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the pie while it is cooking, to ensure that the crust does not burn.

Additionally, some recipes suggest using crescent roll dough or biscuits in place of a traditional pie crust. These can be cooked in the crock pot along with the pie filling, or browned in the oven after being partially cooked in the crock pot.

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Using biscuits instead of crust

While it is possible to make a pie in a crock pot, it is not recommended to cook the pie crust in the crock pot. However, biscuits can be used as a substitute for the bottom pie crust. To do this, you can use store-bought biscuits or make your own biscuit dough.

If you want to use biscuits as the base of your pie, you can halve the biscuits horizontally and roll out the dough to the desired size. You can then stuff and fold the biscuit dough, and bake it in the oven. This will create a puffier hand pie.

Alternatively, you can make a pot pie by preparing the crock pot chicken filling as usual and serving it on top of biscuits. You can use your favourite biscuits or follow a biscuit recipe. This method is recommended by some sources as the biscuits can add a fresh, homemade taste to the dish, and pie crusts do not always cooperate in the slow cooker.

If you would like to use biscuits as a topping for your pie, it is best to place them on top of the filling towards the end of the cooking time. This will ensure that the biscuits do not become too dark or burn. You can use store-bought biscuits or make your own, depending on your preference.

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Potatoes in crock pot pie

Chicken pot pie is a classic comfort food that is often served with potatoes. Preparing this dish in a crock pot is a convenient way to cook the "insides" of the pie without having to use an oven. However, cooking potatoes in a crock pot can be tricky, and they may not always turn out soft and tender. Here are some tips and tricks for including potatoes in your crock pot chicken pot pie:

Choosing the Right Potatoes

It is recommended to use potatoes that are suitable for baking, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes. These potatoes should be diced into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking. Avoid using uncooked potatoes in freezer meals, as they do not freeze well and can turn black.

Timing and Temperature

Potatoes in a crock pot pie may require a longer cooking time than other ingredients. One option is to cook the potatoes separately and add them to the crock pot during the last half hour of cooking, along with the cream and vegetables. Alternatively, you can mix the potatoes with the other ingredients to ensure they are fully cooked. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the potatoes, so it is important to check their tenderness with a fork. Aim for potatoes that are fork-tender, which typically takes around 2.5-3 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.

Variations and Substitutions

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and peas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the filling. For a gluten-free version, choose a gluten-free pie crust or opt for a crust-free version. You can also add shredded cheese, such as cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyere, to the top of your pie before baking for a cheesy touch.

Final Thoughts

Preparing chicken pot pie in a crock pot is a convenient and tasty way to enjoy this classic comfort food. By following the tips provided, you can ensure that your potatoes are cooked to perfection, resulting in a delicious and hearty meal.

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Other crock pot pie recipes

While chicken pot pie is a popular crock pot pie recipe, there are several other crock pot pie recipes to try. Here are some ideas for other crock pot pie recipes to get you started:

Beef Pot Pie

For a beef pot pie, you can use a similar method to the chicken pot pie recipes. Start by placing beef cubes in the crock pot and seasoning them with dried onion, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as garlic powder or Italian herbs. Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, and peas, and pour beef broth over the top. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before the end of the cook time, create a slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water and add it to the crock pot to thicken the sauce. Serve the beef pot pie with biscuits or crescent rolls on the side.

Vegetable Pot Pie

For a vegetarian option, you can make a vegetable pot pie in your crock pot. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a pan before adding them to the crock pot. Add other vegetables of your choice, such as potatoes, green beans, or peas. Pour vegetable broth over the top and add herbs and spices to taste. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry, if desired. Serve the vegetable pot pie with biscuits or crescent rolls, or try a vegan pie crust option made with plant-based butter or oil.

Shepherd's Pie

Create a shepherd's pie in your crock pot by layering cooked ground beef or lamb, onions, carrots, and peas in the bottom of the pot. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the potatoes are heated through and the pie is bubbling. You can also add cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for a cheesy shepherd's pie variation.

Fruit Pie

For a sweet option, try making a fruit pie in your crock pot. Use fresh or frozen fruit of your choice, such as apples, peaches, or berries, and place them in the crock pot with a small amount of water and sugar to taste. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the fruit is tender. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry, if desired. Serve the fruit pie with ice cream or whipped cream, or create a crumbly topping by mixing butter, flour, and sugar and sprinkling it over the fruit before cooking.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can cook pie crust in a crock pot. You can use a store-bought or homemade pie crust.

Place the pie crust on top of the filling in the crock pot and let it cook for another hour or so, until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

Use a kitchen towel or paper towels between the lid and the crock pot to avoid burning. You can also spray the crock pot with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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