How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid
If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal with a twist, the Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid is exactly what you need. This recipe combines flaky crescent roll dough with a creamy, savory chicken pot pie filling, all artfully braided into one beautiful and delicious dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to something homemade and satisfying. You’ll love how this Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid looks as good as it tastes, with every bite bringing together tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and buttery pastry in a delightful harmony.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort food made easy: Combines the classic pot pie filling with simple crescent roll dough for minimal prep and maximum taste.
- Beautiful presentation: The braided crust adds an impressive, homemade touch that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
- Customizable ingredients: Easily swap vegetables or proteins to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Quick weeknight option: Ready in under an hour, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
- Leftovers taste great: Makes fantastic next-day meals or packed lunches that reheat beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for the Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid are simple but essential, each contributing a distinct flavor or texture that makes this dish special. From creamy sauce to flaky dough and savory chicken, every component plays a key role in crafting this comforting meal.
- Chicken: Use cooked, shredded, or diced chicken for the hearty protein base.
- Vegetables: A mix of carrots, peas, and celery add great color, crunch, and nutrients.
- Cream sauce: The homemade or store-bought creamy base binds everything together with rich flavor.
- Crescent roll dough: This flaky, buttery dough is the star for easy wrapping and braiding.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley enhance every bite.
- Butter and flour: For making the roux that thickens the pot pie filling beautifully.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth to the creamy filling without overpowering.
Variations for Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid
One of the best things about the Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid is how easily you can adapt it to your taste or dietary needs. Try these ideas to make this recipe your own!
- Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or extra mixed veggies for a meat-free version.
- Different dough options: Use puff pastry or homemade pie crust to mix up the texture and flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the filling for added heat.
- Dairy-free: Substitute butter with olive oil and use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream for the sauce.
- Extra cheesy: Incorporate shredded cheddar or mozzarella in the filling for an irresistible cheesy layer.
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by sautéing diced carrots, celery, and onions in butter until tender. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened into a creamy sauce. Add cooked chicken, peas, and seasonings, mixing well to combine all the flavors and veggies in one hearty filling.
Step 2: Roll Out and Prepare the Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean work surface. Lay it out in a rectangle shape, pressing any perforations to seal. Cut triangles along the longer sides where you’ll later fold and braid the dough over the filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Braid
Spread the filling evenly in the center strip of dough. Starting at one end, fold alternating dough triangles over the filling to create the braid pattern, gently pressing the edges to seal and maintain the beautiful shape.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Transfer the braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with an egg wash for a shiny finish, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Let the Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid cool for a few minutes before slicing. This rest time helps the filling set so it doesn’t spill out, making every slice neat and delicious.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling makes braiding tricky and can cause leaks during baking.
- Seal dough edges: Use a little water or egg wash to firmly press dough edges together and prevent filling from oozing.
- Use cooked chicken: Leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly, saving time.
- Chill before baking: Refrigerate the braided pie for 10-15 minutes to help retain the shape and improve final texture.
- Watch baking times: Oven temperatures vary, so check your braid after 20 minutes to avoid over-browning.
How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary sprinkled on top add a pop of color and fresh aroma to your Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid before serving.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded and satisfying meal that complements the rich filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the braid into individual portions and serve on rustic wooden boards or colorful plates to enhance the charm and homemade vibe of this delightful dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy quick and easy reheated meals throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked braid wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for fresh-from-the-oven flavor any day.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to preserve crispiness and prevent sogginess that microwaving can cause.
FAQs
Can I use canned vegetables for the filling?
Yes, canned vegetables can be used in a pinch, but fresh or frozen veggies provide better texture and flavor for the filling.
Is crescent roll dough the best option?
Crescent roll dough works great for ease and flakiness, but puff pastry or even homemade pie crust can be substituted for different textures.
How do I ensure the braid doesn’t leak during baking?
Make sure to seal all seams tightly with a bit of water or egg wash, and avoid overfilling the pouch with too much filling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the braid and refrigerate it overnight before baking the next day, which makes for a convenient meal prep option.
What should I serve with Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid?
A fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a light soup pairs wonderfully, balancing the rich and creamy main dish.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines comforting flavors with effortless elegance. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe brings warmth and joy in every braided slice. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite homemade meals!
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Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid
The Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid combines flaky crescent roll dough with a creamy, savory chicken pot pie filling all braided into a beautiful, comforting dish. Perfect for cozy dinners, this easy-to-make recipe delivers tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and buttery pastry in every delicious bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 cups cooked, shredded or diced chicken
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup diced onions
Cream Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Dough
- 1 package crescent roll dough (8 oz)
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Other
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Sauté diced carrots, celery, and onions in butter until tender. Stir in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened into a creamy sauce. Add cooked chicken, peas, and seasonings, mixing well to combine all the flavors and veggies in one hearty filling.
- Roll Out and Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean work surface. Lay it into a rectangle shape, pressing any perforations to seal. Cut triangles along the longer sides where you will fold and braid the dough over the filling.
- Assemble the Braid: Spread the filling evenly in the center strip of dough. Starting at one end, fold alternating dough triangles over the filling to create the braid pattern, gently pressing the edges to seal and maintain the beautiful shape.
- Bake Until Golden: Transfer the braid to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with an egg wash for a shiny finish, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the Chicken Pot Pie Crescent Braid cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the filling set so it does not spill out, making every slice neat and delicious.
Notes
- Don’t overfill: Too much filling makes braiding tricky and can cause leaks during baking.
- Seal dough edges firmly with a little water or egg wash to prevent filling from oozing.
- Use cooked chicken such as leftover roast or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Chill the braided pie in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before baking to help retain shape and improve texture.
- Oven temperatures vary; check after 20 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of braid)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken pot pie, crescent braid, comfort food, easy dinner, savory pie, braided crust