The Ultimate Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits Recipe
Nothing beats a warm, creamy chicken pot pie on a chilly evening—except, perhaps, one topped with buttery, garlicky Cheddar Bay Biscuits! This dish takes the classic chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits to the next level, combining rich, savory flavors with a fluffy, cheesy biscuit topping that melts in your mouth.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits. From choosing the right ingredients to perfecting the creamy filling and achieving a golden-brown, fluffy biscuit crust, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share tips, common mistakes to avoid, and variations to customize your dish.
Introduction to Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Why This Dish is the Perfect Comfort Food
Few dishes can match the cozy, nostalgic feeling of digging into a hot, homemade chicken pot pie. With its rich, creamy filling, tender chicken, and wholesome veggies, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. But when you swap out the traditional pie crust for buttery, cheesy Cheddar Bay Biscuits, it becomes a next-level culinary experience.
The combination of a savory, herb-infused filling with the fluffy, garlicky biscuits creates a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or holiday gatherings. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is guaranteed to please even picky eaters.
The Unique Twist: Cheddar Bay Biscuits as a Topping
Traditional chicken pot pie is often topped with a flaky pie crust or puff pastry, but using Cheddar Bay Biscuits brings in a whole new flavor profile. These famous biscuits—known for their sharp cheddar flavor, garlicky kick, and buttery goodness—complement the creamy pot pie filling perfectly.
By using store-bought biscuit mix (or making your own from scratch), you can cut down on prep time while still getting that golden, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Plus, the biscuits absorb the rich, savory sauce as they bake, creating an unforgettable bite every time.
Brief History of Chicken Pot Pie & Its Evolution
Did you know that chicken pot pie has been around for centuries? The concept dates back to the Roman Empire, where savory meat pies were a popular meal. Over time, different cultures put their own spin on the dish, with the American version evolving into the creamy, vegetable-packed pot pie we love today.
The idea of using biscuits as a topping instead of pie crust is a more modern take, inspired by the popularity of drop biscuits and Southern-style cobblers. Adding Cheddar Bay Biscuits makes this version even more indulgent, bringing together two comfort food classics into one irresistible dish.
Ingredients Breakdown and Substitutions
Essential Ingredients for a Classic Chicken Pot Pie
To make the best chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits, you’ll need a handful of simple, flavorful ingredients. The heart of this dish lies in its creamy, savory filling and its cheesy, golden biscuit topping.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works best for convenience, but you can also use cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs.
- Vegetables: A classic mirepoix (onion, celery, and carrots) adds depth, while frozen peas or mixed veggies bring color and sweetness.
- Butter & Flour: These two ingredients form a roux, the secret to a thick, luscious filling.
- Chicken Broth & Heavy Cream: These create a rich, silky sauce that coats the chicken and veggies perfectly.
- Poultry Seasoning & Garlic Powder: For an extra flavor boost, these spices bring out the dish’s warmth and depth.
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: This is the star of the show! The garlicky, cheesy, buttery biscuits are what set this pot pie apart from the rest.
Why Cheddar Bay Biscuits Enhance the Flavor
Instead of using a traditional pie crust, fluffy, cheesy Cheddar Bay Biscuits add an extra layer of texture and flavor. These biscuits soak up the creamy, savory filling, while the buttery garlic topping ensures a crisp, golden crust. The contrast between the rich filling and the light, airy biscuits makes each bite pure comfort food heaven.
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences
Need to tweak the recipe? No problem! Here are some easy swaps:
- Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter.
- Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free alternative and use a gluten-free biscuit mix.
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with mushrooms, white beans, or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Filling
- Sauté the veggies: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, celery, and carrots, and cook until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Make the roux: Stir in the flour and poultry seasoning, cooking for about a minute until the flour turns light golden.
- Build the sauce: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce thicken.
- Add the chicken: Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and any additional veggies. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let the filling cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
Making the Perfect Cheddar Bay Biscuits from Scratch
If you’re using a biscuit mix, follow the package instructions. But if you want to make your own, here’s how:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in melted butter and milk until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—it should be slightly sticky.
- Portion out the biscuits: Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to drop small mounds of dough onto the pot pie filling.
Assembling and Baking the Dish to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the chicken pot pie filling into a greased 9×13 baking dish or an oven-safe skillet.
- Drop biscuit dough evenly over the top. They will expand as they bake, so leave some space between them.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Brush with garlic butter: Melt butter and mix it with garlic powder and parsley. Brush it over the biscuits for an extra burst of flavor.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
And there you have it—a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits!
Tips & Tricks for the Best Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Should You Prebake the Bottom Crust for Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
One of the most common questions when making chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits is whether the bottom crust should be prebaked. Since this version of pot pie doesn’t use a traditional pie crust, there’s no need for prebaking! Instead, the biscuit topping acts as both the crust and a fluffy, golden topping.
However, if you want a more structured base, you can line your baking dish with store-bought pie dough or puff pastry, prebake it for about 10 minutes at 375°F, and then proceed with adding the filling and biscuit topping.
How to Achieve a Thick and Creamy Filling
No one likes a runny pot pie! To ensure your filling is thick and creamy, follow these tips:
- Use a roux: Cooking butter and flour together before adding broth and cream creates a thicker, silkier base.
- Simmer long enough: Let your filling cook until it clings to the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer.
- Add cornstarch slurry: If needed, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the filling.
Ensuring a Crispy and Fluffy Biscuit Topping
The key to fluffy, golden-brown biscuits is proper baking:
- Don’t overmix the dough: A light mix ensures a tender biscuit.
- Use cold milk and butter: This helps create a flaky texture.
- Brush with garlic butter: Right before serving, brush the biscuits with melted butter, garlic, and parsley for extra flavor.
Variations and Customizations
Using Turkey Instead of Chicken
If you’re looking for a simple swap, leftover turkey works just as well as chicken. It’s a great way to repurpose holiday leftovers into a flavor-packed, hearty meal.
- Use the same amount of turkey as you would chicken.
- Smoked turkey adds an extra depth of flavor.
- Turkey pairs well with sage and thyme, so feel free to add a pinch more of these herbs.
Adding More Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
Want to sneak in more veggies? Here are some easy add-ins:
- Spinach or kale: Stir in a handful of fresh greens for added fiber.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring a rich, earthy flavor.
- Sweet potatoes or butternut squash: Swap out some of the carrots for a touch of sweetness.
Alternative Biscuit Toppings for a Unique Twist
Not a fan of Cheddar Bay Biscuits? Try these variations:
- Rosemary Parmesan Biscuits: Add fresh rosemary and shredded parmesan to your biscuit dough for a herby, nutty taste.
- Cornbread Topping: A slightly sweet cornbread batter works well for a Southern-inspired pot pie.
- Flaky Puff Pastry: Instead of biscuits, use puff pastry for a crisp, golden crust.
For more delicious comfort food recipes, check out our food recipes a fun, bite-sized twist on a classic!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
How to Properly Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits, lucky you! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. To keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Cover properly: If keeping it in the original baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Separate biscuits (optional): If you want to keep the biscuits crisp, store them separately from the filling.
Can You Freeze Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Yes! This dish freezes well, but for the best texture, follow these tips:
- Freeze before baking: Prepare the filling and spread it in a freezer-safe dish, then wrap it tightly. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, top with fresh biscuit dough, and bake.
- Freeze after baking: Cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the whole dish in plastic wrap and foil. It will last up to 3 months.
- Reheat from frozen: Bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Best Reheating Methods for Maintaining Texture
- Oven (Best Method): Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the biscuits.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings in 30-second bursts, but note that the biscuits may soften.
- Air Fryer: If you want crispy biscuits again, pop them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Classic Side Dishes for a Hearty Meal
This dish is already rich and filling, but pairing it with the right side dish balances the meal. Here are some classic comfort food sides that work well:
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli – The crispiness and slight bitterness of broccoli cut through the rich filling.
- Mashed Potatoes – If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serve it with a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Crisp Garden Salad – A light, tangy vinaigrette helps offset the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Healthy Sides to Balance the Richness
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try these healthy sides:
- Steamed Green Beans – A simple buttery green bean dish adds color and freshness.
- Roasted Carrots & Brussels Sprouts – Roasting veggies brings out natural sweetness, making them a perfect contrast.
- Kale and Apple Salad – The crunchy texture and tangy dressing pair well with the savory pot pie.
Perfect Drink Pairings for This Dish
- White Wine: A buttery Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy filling.
- Apple Cider: The sweet, spiced flavor pairs beautifully with the cheesy biscuits.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: If you prefer non-alcoholic options, these drinks add a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Prebake the Bottom Crust of a Chicken Pot Pie?
No, there’s no need to prebake the bottom crust for chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits—because there isn’t one! Instead of a traditional pie crust, this dish features fluffy, cheesy biscuits as the topping. The biscuits soak up just the right amount of the creamy filling, staying light and golden on top while absorbing flavor underneath.
However, if you prefer a crispier base, you can use a store-bought pie crust, prebake it at 375°F for about 10 minutes, and then add the filling and biscuit topping before baking again.
What Makes Cheddar Bay Biscuits So Good?
Cheddar Bay Biscuits are famous for their rich, buttery texture, sharp cheddar flavor, and bold garlic seasoning. Originally made popular by Red Lobster, these biscuits have the perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and slightly salty flavors that pair beautifully with creamy dishes like chicken pot pie.
The secret to their irresistible taste lies in three key elements:
- Shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a deep, tangy flavor.
- Garlic butter topping – Brushed on after baking for extra richness.
- Light, fluffy texture – Achieved by mixing the dough just until combined.
Who Has the Best Cheddar Bay Biscuits?
Red Lobster is the original home of Cheddar Bay Biscuits, and they even sell a boxed mix so you can make them at home. However, many homemade versions taste just as good—if not better. With the right mix of cheese, butter, and seasoning, you can create biscuits that are fluffier and fresher than the restaurant version.
If you’re short on time, using a pre-made biscuit mix like Bisquick and adding garlic powder, butter, and cheddar cheese is a great shortcut.
How to Thicken Your Chicken Pot Pie Filling?
A runny filling can ruin a good chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits, but luckily, it’s easy to fix! Here’s how to get a perfectly thick, creamy consistency:
- Use a roux – Cooking flour and butter together before adding liquid helps create a smooth, thick sauce.
- Simmer longer – If the filling is too thin, let it cook a few extra minutes so it reduces.
- Cornstarch slurry – Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the filling.
- Use less broth – If your filling always turns out runny, cut back slightly on the chicken broth.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pot Pie with Cheddar Bay Biscuits
If you’re craving comfort food with a twist, this chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits is the perfect dish! It combines classic, creamy pot pie filling with the cheesy, garlicky goodness of Cheddar Bay Biscuits, creating a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor.
Plus, it’s:
– Easy to make – Perfect for busy weeknights!
– Customizable – Swap in turkey, add extra veggies, or try a different biscuit topping.
– Crowd-pleasing – A dish the whole family will love.
Give This Recipe a Try!
Now that you know everything about making the best chicken pot pie with cheddar bay biscuits, it’s time to get in the kitchen and try it yourself. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Want more easy, delicious comfort food recipes? Check out Muffin Tin Chicken Pot Pies for a fun, bite-sized version of this classic!
Enjoy, and happy cooking! 🍽️