These Chicken Pot Pie Burgers are the ultimate fusion of two comforting favorites—juicy chicken burgers and the rich flavors of a classic pot pie. The savory patties are made with ground chicken, mixed with sautéed vegetables, and topped with a creamy pea gravy that brings the whole dish together in a delicious, heartwarming bite.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner, these burgers provide the comfort of pot pie with the ease of a burger. The rich, buttery gravy adds a flavorful twist, making this meal a unique yet nostalgic favorite. Whether served with a side salad or crispy fries, these Chicken Pot Pie Burgers are sure to satisfy your craving for comfort food.
Full Recipe:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 small ribs celery, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1 medium shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon powdered chicken bouillon
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/3 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- Nonstick cooking spray, for the skillet and patties
- 4 hamburger buns, lightly toasted
Directions:
- Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the celery, carrot, shallot, chicken bouillon, celery seeds, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
- In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the flour and garlic powder, whisking for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk and bring to a simmer, whisking until thickened, about 2 minutes. Stir in peas, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
- Mix panko into the cooled vegetables, add 2 tablespoons milk, and let stand for 5 minutes. Add the ground chicken, 1 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Form into four patties.
- Spray a skillet and the patties with nonstick spray. Cook the patties over medium-high heat for 2 minutes per side, until cooked through. Serve the patties on buns with the pea gravy on top, and extra gravy on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 400 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken Pot Pie Burgers: A Comfort Food Fusion You Didn’t Know You Needed
When it comes to classic comfort foods, few dishes stand out like chicken pot pie and burgers. Combining the rich, savory essence of a chicken pot pie with the convenience and crowd-pleasing appeal of a burger, Chicken Pot Pie Burgers are a true culinary masterpiece. This recipe captures the creamy, hearty filling of a traditional chicken pot pie and turns it into a delicious and satisfying burger.
If you’re looking for something new yet familiar for your weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With a buttery crust-like bun, a juicy chicken patty, and a luscious gravy featuring peas, celery, and carrots, it’s a meal that evokes nostalgia while presenting a fresh twist on two beloved comfort foods. Let’s dive into the key features and advantages of this recipe, along with its potential variations and serving suggestions.
The Best of Both Worlds
- Classic Comfort with a Twist: Chicken pot pie is a staple in many households, known for its comforting combination of chicken, vegetables, and creamy gravy, all baked into a golden pastry. Meanwhile, burgers are a go-to option for a quick, satisfying meal. Combining these two dishes creates an indulgent, flavor-packed experience that brings the best of both worlds to the table.
- The Perfect Balance of Flavors: The flavors in this dish come together harmoniously. The ground chicken patty is tender and juicy, while the vegetables (celery, carrot, and peas) add texture and sweetness. The creamy gravy with chicken bouillon, garlic powder, and black pepper ties everything together with a richness that enhances the dish without overwhelming it.
- Ideal for Weeknight Dinners: While chicken pot pie often requires more time and effort to prepare, these burgers are relatively quick and easy to make, with a total cooking time of around 45 minutes. This makes them an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly Meal: Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a dish the whole family can enjoy, Chicken Pot Pie Burgers are a safe bet. Kids will love the burger aspect, while adults can appreciate the nostalgic flavors of a traditional pot pie in a new form. It’s a versatile meal that works well for casual dinners, weekend gatherings, or even a backyard barbecue.
Health and Nutrition Insights
- Ground Chicken as a Lean Protein Source: Using ground chicken for the burger patties offers a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Chicken is a lean source of protein, which helps in building and repairing tissues and contributes to overall muscle health. It’s also lower in fat compared to ground beef, making these burgers a lighter option without compromising on flavor.
- Vegetable Power: The recipe incorporates several nutritious vegetables like celery, carrots, and peas. These veggies add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal, making it not only tasty but also more nutritious. For example, carrots provide a good dose of beta-carotene, which supports eye health, while peas offer fiber and plant-based protein.
- Balanced Macronutrients: With a combination of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the butter, and fiber from the vegetables, this meal provides a balanced profile of macronutrients. It’s satisfying without being too heavy, and the balance of nutrients helps to keep you full and energized.
- Low in Carbohydrates: Since the recipe doesn’t include a pastry crust like traditional chicken pot pies, it’s naturally lower in carbohydrates. This can be particularly appealing to those following a lower-carb or keto lifestyle, especially if you opt to serve the burger on a low-carb bun or lettuce wrap.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about Chicken Pot Pie Burgers is their versatility. There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to suit different tastes, dietary restrictions, or ingredient availability.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re lactose-intolerant or prefer to avoid dairy, you can easily swap out the butter and milk in the recipe for dairy-free alternatives. Plant-based butter and unsweetened almond milk or oat milk will work just as well in creating the creamy gravy.
- Gluten-Free Version: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs in the chicken patties. Additionally, choose gluten-free buns or opt for a lettuce wrap instead. This way, you can enjoy the full flavors of the dish without worrying about gluten content.
- Spice It Up: For those who like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken patty mixture can give the burgers a spicy kick. You can also add a spicy mustard or hot sauce to the pea gravy to elevate the heat level.
- Herbaceous Twist: For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into the chicken patty mixture or the gravy. These herbs complement the comforting flavors of chicken pot pie and give the dish a more gourmet feel.
- Add Cheese for Extra Indulgence: If you’re a fan of cheeseburgers, adding a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese on top of the chicken patty can take these burgers to the next level. The melted cheese pairs wonderfully with the creamy pea gravy, creating an even more indulgent dish.
How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Burgers
Presentation and accompaniments can make all the difference when serving a dish like Chicken Pot Pie Burgers. Here are some tips on how to serve them for maximum enjoyment:
- Buns Matter: While a traditional hamburger bun works great for these burgers, you can elevate the experience by choosing brioche buns for a richer, buttery flavor. Alternatively, a potato bun offers a soft, pillowy texture that complements the juicy chicken patty.
- Pair with Classic Sides: Since these burgers have a hearty, comforting flavor, they pair well with classic sides like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad. You could also serve them with roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
- Gravy on the Side: Don’t forget the extra pea gravy! Serving a small bowl of gravy on the side for dipping or spooning over the burgers ensures that each bite is flavorful and rich. You can even drizzle the gravy over the side dishes for an added touch.
Why You Should Try Chicken Pot Pie Burgers
If you’re someone who loves comfort food but is also looking for something quick and easy to prepare, Chicken Pot Pie Burgers are the perfect solution. They provide all the cozy flavors of a chicken pot pie with the convenience of a burger, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
Additionally, the recipe is versatile and easy to adapt, whether you want to make it dairy-free, gluten-free, or spicier. The simple ingredient list ensures that you can whip these up with items you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Burgers are a delightful fusion of two classic comfort foods, offering the best of both worlds in one delicious dish. The rich, creamy pea gravy combined with a juicy chicken patty and soft bun makes for a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re craving the hearty warmth of a pot pie or the satisfying simplicity of a burger, this recipe delivers. It’s not only quick and easy to make but also customizable to your dietary preferences, making it an ideal addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. With its balanced nutrition, comforting flavors, and versatility, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.