You’ve got a frozen chicken pot pie and a hungry family. Learning how to cook frozen chicken pot pie in oven is the easiest way to get a hot, comforting meal on the table with minimal effort. This guide will walk you through the simple steps for perfect results every single time, whether your pie is store-bought or homemade and frozen.
We’ll cover everything from oven temperatures to checking for doneness. You’ll also find tips for extra crisp crusts, handling different sizes, and what to do with leftovers. Let’s get that pie baking.
How To Cook Frozen Chicken Pot Pie In Oven
This is the standard, most reliable method for cooking a classic frozen chicken pot pie. It works for nearly all major brands and sizes you’ll find at the grocery store. Always start by checking the package instructions, as times can vary, but this is your universal blueprint.
What You’ll Need
- Your frozen chicken pot pie (do not thaw)
- A baking sheet or sheet pan
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
- A food thermometer (highly recommended)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven. The standard temperature for cooking frozen chicken pot pie is 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps cook the filling thoroughly while crisping the crust. Let your oven fully preheat for best results.
2. Prepare the Pie and Pan
Remove the frozen pie from its cardboard box. Most pies come in a foil tin. You do not need to remove it from this tin. Place the frozen pie directly onto a baking sheet. This catches any potential bubble-overs and makes handling much easier and safer.
If your pie has a plastic film or lid, make sure to remove it completely. Sometimes it can be stuck on there pretty good, so double-check.
3. Cover the Crust Edges
This is a pro tip for a perfect crust. Tear off a few strips of aluminum foil. Loosely tent them over the edges of the pie crust. This prevents the delicate edges from burning before the filling is hot. The center of the crust will remain exposed to get golden brown.
4. Bake the Pie
Place the baking sheet with the pie in the center of your preheated oven. For a standard individual-sized pie (about 7-8 ounces), bake for 30-40 minutes. For a larger family-sized pie (often 20-24 ounces), bake for 50-70 minutes.
The heat needs time to penetrate the frozen filling, so be patient. Avoid opening the oven door too often, as this lets heat escape.
5. Remove the Foil and Finish Baking
About 10-15 minutes before the total cook time is up, carefully remove the foil from the crust edges. This allows the edges to brown and crisp up nicely for the final part of baking.
6. Check for Doneness
You can’t rely on crust color alone. The filling must reach a safe internal temperature. Insert a food thermometer into the center of the pie, through the crust and into the filling. It should read at least 165°F (74°C).
If you don’t have a thermometer, look for these signs: the crust is deep golden brown, and the filling is bubbling actively through any slits in the crust. If it’s not bubbling, it likely needs more time.
7. Let it Rest
This step is crucial but often skipped. Once done, remove the pie from the oven. Let it sit on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. This allows the super-hot filling to settle and thicken slightly, so it doesn’t run everywhere when you cut into it. It also prevents burns from steam.
Tips for the Best Results
- Never thaw your frozen pot pie before baking. It can make the crust soggy.
- For an extra shiny, golden top crust, you can brush it lightly with an egg wash or milk during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- If the bottom crust seems pale, you can place the baking sheet on a lower oven rack for the last few minutes.
- Ovens vary. If your pie is browning too fast, reduce the temperature by 25°F and add a few minutes to the cook time.
How to Cook a Frozen Homemade Pot Pie
If you froze your own homemade chicken pot pie, the process is similar but may need adjustment. Homemade pies often have more filling and a thicker crust.
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Place the frozen pie dish on a baking sheet. Do not thaw.
- Cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Bake for about 60-80 minutes for a deep-dish 9-inch pie.
- Remove foil for the last 20 minutes of baking.
- Check that the internal temperature in the center of the filling is 165°F and the crust is browned.
- Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Air Fryer and Microwave Alternatives
While the oven is best, you have other options.
Air Fryer Method
This is great for individual pies. Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Place the frozen pie in the basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, checking occasionally. You may need to cover the edges with foil halfway through if they darken to quickly. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.
Microwave Method (Not Recommended for Quality)
This will heat the pie but gives a soft, soggy crust. It’s a last resort. Remove plastic cover, place pie on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 5-8 minutes for an individual pie, rotating halfway. Let stand for 2 minutes. The texture won’t be great, but it will be hot.
Solving Common Problems
Soggy Bottom Crust
This happens when moisture from the filling soaks in. To prevent it, ensure your oven is fully preheated. Placing the pie on a preheated baking sheet can help. Also, letting the baked pie rest allows the filling to set.
Burnt Edges, Cold Center
This means your oven temperature is too high, cooking the outside before the inside thaws. Always use foil on the edges at the start. If it’s a constant problem, try baking at 375°F and adding 10-15 minutes to the time.
Filling Isn’t Bubbling
If the time is up but no bubbles appear, the filling isn’t hot enough. Give it more time in 5-minute increments. The bubbling is a key visual cue that the center is piping hot.
Food Safety is Essential
Chicken must be cooked to a safe temperature to avoid illness. A food thermometer is your best friend here. The USDA recommends all poultry, including in pot pies, reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Don’t guess—check.
Leftovers should be cooled and refridgerated within two hours. Reheat them to 165°F as well. You can reheat a slice in the oven or toaster oven to keep the crust texture.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftover baked pot pie? Let it cool completely. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, place a slice on a baking sheet. Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout. The microwave will make the crust very soft, so the oven is better for texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you put a frozen pot pie directly in the oven?
Yes, absolutely. You should always cook a frozen chicken pot pie directly from frozen. Do not thaw it first, as this can lead to a soggy crust and uneven cooking.
What temperature do you cook a frozen pot pie?
The standard and recommended temperature is 400°F (200°C). This provides the right balance of thorough heating and browning. Some brands may suggest 375°F, so checking the package is wise.
How long does a frozen chicken pot pie take to cook?
For an individual pie (about 7 oz), it takes 30-40 minutes. For a larger family-sized pie (about 24 oz), it takes 50-70 minutes. Always verify it’s done by checking the internal temperature is 165°F.
Why does my frozen pot pie have a soggy crust?
The main reasons are: not using a hot enough oven, not baking it long enough for the filling to fully heat, or not letting it rest after baking. Using a baking sheet and ensuring doneness with a thermometer fixes this.
Can you cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer?
You can cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer. It works well for single servings. Cook at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness. The crust may brown faster, so foil on the edges might be needed.
How do you know when a frozen chicken pot pie is done?
The best way is to use a food thermometer. Insert it into the center; it should read 165°F. Visually, the crust should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbling actively through any vents.
Final Thoughts
Cooking a frozen chicken pot pie in the oven is a straightforward process that delivers a satisfying meal. The key is patience—let the oven do it’s work from a frozen state, protect the crust edges, and always verify the internal temperature. With these simple steps, you’ll have a hot, flaky, and delicious pot pie ready to enjoy without any guesswork. It’s a classic comfort food that’s reliably easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a simple weekend lunch.