Chicken pot pie in air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to preparing this classic comfort food in a quick and convenient way. Traditionally baked in the oven, chicken pot pie requires a long cooking time to achieve the perfect balance of a crispy golden crust and a warm, creamy filling. But with the help of the air fryer, you can enjoy a deliciously crispy chicken pot pie in a fraction of the time, while still achieving that homemade taste and texture. Air frying has gained popularity for its ability to cook food quickly, evenly, and with less oil, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying.
What Makes Chicken Pot Pie in the Air Fryer So Convenient?
The air fryer is a kitchen marvel that cooks food faster and more efficiently than traditional methods. Cooking chicken pot pie in the air fryer is particularly convenient for several reasons:
- Speed: The air fryer’s rapid air circulation cooks food much faster than conventional ovens. For chicken pot pie, this means you can enjoy a hearty meal in a fraction of the time.
- Crispiness: One of the best features of an air fryer is the ability to achieve a crispy, golden crust without the need for excessive oil or butter.
- Energy Efficiency: Air fryers consume less energy than traditional ovens, making them more cost-effective for quick meals.
- Convenience: The air fryer allows you to cook frozen or fresh chicken pot pies, offering flexibility for busy weeknights or last-minute meal preparations.
Frozen Chicken Pot Pie in Air Fryer: A Quick and Easy Meal
Using a frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer is a game-changer. You can go from frozen to piping hot in under 30 minutes! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. This ensures the pie cooks evenly and gets that crisp, golden crust.
- Place the Pie in the Basket: Arrange the frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation around the pie.
- Cook for 20-25 Minutes: Air fry the pie for 20 to 25 minutes, checking halfway through. You can flip the pie if you want an even crisp on both sides.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Use a food thermometer to check the pie’s internal temperature, which should be 165°F.
The result is a perfectly cooked chicken pot pie with a crispy crust and hot, flavorful filling.
Thawed Pot Pie in Air Fryer: Adjusting Cooking Time for Freshness
If you have a thawed chicken pot pie, the cooking time is shorter, as the pie doesn’t need as long to reach a safe internal temperature. Here’s how to cook a thawed pot pie:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F. Preheating will help the pie cook evenly.
- Place the Thawed Pie in the Air Fryer: Set the pie carefully in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not touching the sides of the basket.
- Cook for 15-20 Minutes: Air fry the thawed pie for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the size. You may want to check after 12 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- Ensure the Internal Temperature: The pie should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Thawed chicken pot pies cook quickly and have the same crispy texture as frozen pies but with a shorter cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Cook Frozen Chicken Pie in Air Fryer
Cooking frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer can be a breeze with the right steps. Follow this simple guide for the best results:
Ingredients:
- 1 Frozen Chicken Pot Pie
- 1 tablespoon of butter (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F for 3-5 minutes. This will help the pie cook evenly.
- Prepare the Pie: If desired, brush a small amount of melted butter over the top of the crust to help it become golden brown.
- Place the Pie in the Basket: Put the frozen pie in the air fryer basket, making sure it’s centered for even cooking.
- Air Fry for 20-25 Minutes: Air fry the chicken pot pie at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes. Check it halfway through and adjust the cooking time if necessary.
- Check Doneness: Insert a food thermometer into the center of the pie. The filling should reach 165°F.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the pie is done, remove it carefully, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve.
How Long to Cook Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer at 400°F for Crispy Perfection
Cooking frozen chicken pot pie at 400°F in the air fryer will result in an even crispier crust. The higher temperature allows the outer layers to crisp up faster while ensuring the inside remains warm and creamy. Here’s how:
- Preheat: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for a few minutes.
- Place the Frozen Pot Pie in the Basket: Gently place the frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer basket.
- Air Fry for 20-25 Minutes: Cook the pie at 400°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, depending on its size.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Make sure the pie has reached 165°F internally.
- Serve: Once done, remove the pie from the air fryer and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
This method will give you a perfectly crispy crust and a hot, flavorful filling.
Best Air Fryer Models for Cooking Chicken Pot Pie: Top Picks
Choosing the right air fryer can significantly impact your cooking experience. Here are some of the best air fryer models for cooking chicken pot pie:
- Ninja Foodi DualZone Air Fryer: Known for its dual cooking zones, this air fryer allows you to cook multiple dishes simultaneously.
- Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: A favorite for its large capacity and even cooking performance.
- Instant Vortex Plus: This model features a customizable program that works perfectly for cooking pies and other baked goods.
- Philips Premium Airfryer: A trusted brand known for its durable construction and consistent results.
These air fryers offer great features, from rapid cooking to even air circulation, making them perfect for your chicken pot pie.
Cooking Small Frozen Chicken Pie in Air Fryer: Time and Tips
If you have a small frozen chicken pot pie, the cooking time will be slightly shorter than larger ones. Here’s how to cook small pies:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F.
- Cook the Small Pie: Place the small frozen pie in the basket and cook for 12 to 15 minutes.
- Check for Crispiness: Check halfway through to ensure the crust is crisping evenly.
- Internal Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.
Small frozen pies are a great option for quick meals or individual servings.
Air Fryer Ninja: How Long to Cook Chicken Pie in Air Fryer Ninja
The Ninja Foodi and Ninja Air Fryer models are highly regarded for their powerful air circulation and even cooking. To cook a chicken pot pie in a Ninja air fryer, follow these steps:
- Preheat: Preheat your Ninja air fryer to 375°F.
- Place the Pie: Carefully place the chicken pot pie into the air fryer basket, ensuring it is not overcrowded.
- Cook for 20-25 Minutes: Air fry at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, checking it halfway.
- Ensure Proper Temperature: Use a food thermometer to ensure the pie’s internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Ninja air fryers are perfect for ensuring a crispy crust without sacrificing the creamy filling inside.
Tips for Achieving a Golden, Crispy Crust on Your Chicken Pot Pie
The crust of your chicken pot pie is just as important as the filling. To achieve a golden, crispy crust, follow these tips:
- Brush with Butter: Brushing the top of the pie with melted butter before air frying enhances the crust’s golden color and flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating helps the crust crisp up right away, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation around the pie for even cooking.
- Increase Temperature for Crispy Finish: If you want an extra crispy crust, increase the temperature to 400°F for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Cooking Chicken Pot Pie in Air Fryer
Here are some common issues and how to solve them:
- Soggy Bottom Crust: Brush the crust with butter, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation.
- Under-cooked Filling: Increase the cooking time or check the internal temperature to ensure the pie is fully heated through.
- Burnt Crust: Lower the temperature slightly and check the pie halfway to prevent over-browning.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked chicken pot pie every time.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this comforting dish with a perfectly crispy crust and a warm, creamy filling. Whether you’re using a frozen or thawed pie, the air fryer delivers great results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional oven baking. The versatility of the air fryer allows you to adjust cooking times based on the pie’s size, while ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and optimal flavor.
By following the step-by-step instructions, adjusting the temperature, and using helpful tips like preheating the air fryer and brushing the crust with butter, you’ll achieve a delicious, golden, and crispy chicken pot pie every time. With a little practice, you’ll master the art of cooking chicken pot pie in the air fryer, making it a go-to meal for busy nights or weekend treats.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to cook a frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer?
For a frozen chicken pot pie, it typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes at 375°F in the air fryer. Make sure to check the internal temperature to reach 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. Can I cook a small frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer?
Yes! Small frozen chicken pot pies can be cooked in the air fryer in approximately 12 to 15 minutes at 375°F. The crust should become golden and crispy while the filling heats through.
3. Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking chicken pot pie?
Yes, preheating the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes ensures that the pie cooks evenly and the crust crisps up nicely.
4. How do I know when the chicken pot pie is fully cooked in the air fryer?
The best way to check if the chicken pot pie is fully cooked is to use a food thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F. The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be hot and bubbling.
5. Can I cook a thawed chicken pot pie in the air fryer?
Yes! Thawed chicken pot pies cook faster than frozen ones, usually taking 15 to 20 minutes at 350°F. Make sure to check for crispiness and the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through.
6. What should I do if the crust of my chicken pot pie is soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, brush the pie with melted butter before cooking. Also, ensure there is enough space in the air fryer basket for proper air circulation to crisp up the crust evenly.
7. Can I add extra vegetables or seasonings to my chicken pot pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or mushrooms, and seasonings such as thyme, garlic powder, or rosemary for a personalized touch. Just make sure they’re cooked or prepped in advance.
8. Can I cook meat pies in the air fryer?
Yes, meat pies can be cooked in the air fryer with similar steps and timing to chicken pot pie. Frozen meat pies typically take about 20-25 minutes at 375°F, while thawed ones may take 15-20 minutes.
9. What temperature should I set the air fryer for a crispy crust on the chicken pot pie?
For a golden, crispy crust, it’s recommended to cook the pie at 375°F to 400°F, depending on your preference for crispiness. If you want an extra crispy finish, increase the temperature to 400°F during the last few minutes of cooking.
10. Can I cook different sizes of chicken pot pie in the air fryer?
Yes, the air fryer can handle different sizes of chicken pot pies. The cooking time will vary depending on the size—smaller pies cook faster (around 12 to 15 minutes), while larger pies may take up to 25 minutes. Always check the internal temperature to ensure the pie is cooked thoroughly.
