Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer: A Fast, Tasty Meal
Cooking a frozen pot pie in the air fryer turns it into a crispy, inviting meal in no time. It’s a simple solution for anyone craving comfort food quickly.
Let’s talk about making a frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer. I’ve found this method brings out the best in these comforting meals. You end up with a crust that’s perfectly crispy, and the inside?
Just as warm and hearty as you hope. Using an air fryer for this doesn’t just cut down on oil use; it also makes everything cook up faster and taste better.
Why You’ll Choose Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer
Ever since I started cooking frozen pot pie in my air fryer, it’s been a hit at my house. Here’s the scoop on why this method is a keeper:
- The crust gets incredibly crispy. Something about that hot air circulating makes it golden and flaky.
- It cooks faster than in the oven. Saves you time, which is always a plus in my book.
- It’s a healthier option. Less oil, but still all the flavor you’re craving.
- Frozen pot pies and air fryers are a match made in heaven. The air fryer does an amazing job at cooking it evenly, keeping the filling moist.
- Works with any air fryer. No matter what model you have, you can get great results.
It’s all about that perfect crust, quick cooking, and knowing you’re making a healthier choice. Plus, it’s super easy and works with any air fryer out there.
See the Marie Callender Chicken Pot Pie Air Fryer
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Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer
Cooking a frozen pot pie in the air fryer makes it crispy and delicious quickly. It’s a cozy meal that’s simple to prepare, perfect for when you need something tasty without the wait.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 pot pie serves 1-2 1x
Ingredients
- 1 frozen pot pie (pick your favorite filling)
- Optional: Aluminum foil, if you like your crust a bit softer
Substitutions:
- Gluten-free eaters, look for a gluten-free pot pie.
- If you’re not into meat, there are plenty of delicious vegetarian options out there.
Instructions
- Preparation: Start by taking your frozen pot pie out of the freezer. No need to thaw; that’s the beauty of this method. Check the packaging for any specific instructions or recommendations. Some pot pies come in foil trays which should not be placed in the air fryer due to risk of fire.
- Selecting the Right Pot Pie: Opt for pot pies that fit well in your air fryer basket. Size matters here; a smaller pie cooks more evenly. Plus, make sure it’s one you’re excited to eat. Whether it’s chicken, beef, or veggie, the better the quality, the tastier the meal.
- Preheating: While not always necessary, preheating your air fryer to 350°F can help cook the pot pie evenly. Just let it run for about 3 minutes before you start cooking.
- Seasoning: Since we’re dealing with a frozen product, there’s no need for additional seasoning. The pot pie is already seasoned and ready to go. If you do prefer extra flavor, consider a light sprinkle of herbs or spices on top before cooking.
- Temperature and Time: Cook your pot pie at 350°F. Cooking times can vary based on the size and brand of the pot pie, but a good starting point is 20 minutes. If the pie is larger than average, it might need up to 30 minutes.
- Placement in the Basket: Remove the pot pie from any packaging and place it directly in the air fryer basket. If it’s in a foil tray and your air fryer model allows it, you can place it with the tray. Make sure there’s space around the pie for air to circulate.
- Importance of Temperature and Time: The set temperature and cooking time ensure the crust gets crispy without burning, while the inside heats thoroughly. Adjust the time based on your air fryer model and the pot pie size for the best results.
- Arranging for Even Cooking: The key to a perfectly cooked pot pie is ensuring hot air can circulate around it. Don’t cover the pie with foil unless it starts to over-brown. If your air fryer has a rack, resist the urge to stack items.
- Serving: Once done, let the pot pie cool for a couple of minutes before serving. It will be piping hot, especially the filling.
Notes
- Not all air fryers are the same. Start checking your pot pie around the 20-minute mark to prevent overcooking.
- If the crust is browning too quickly, you can tent the pie with a small piece of aluminum foil.
- Use oven mitts when removing the pie from the air fryer; it and the appliance will be very hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Half a pie
- Calories: Varies by brand and ingredients, typically around 400-700 calories per serving
- Sugar: Varies
- Sodium: Varies, often high due to preservation methods
- Fat: Varies, with a focus on reducing trans fats in healthier options
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: Minimal to none
- Carbohydrates: Varies, with crust contributing a significant portion
- Fiber: Varies, with vegetable-filled pies offering more
- Protein: Varies, with meat pies being higher in protein
- Cholesterol: Varies, with cream-based fillings being higher
Keywords: air fryer frozen pot pie
Equipment Needed
Air Fryer: Ofcourse, you need air fryer. The air fryer makes the magic happen, giving that pot pie a crispy crust and evenly cooked filling without heating up your whole kitchen. It’s compact, efficient, and a must-have for quick meals.
Aluminum Foil: Sometimes, the top of the pot pie gets a little too brown for my liking. That’s where aluminum foil comes in. Just a light cover can keep the crust from overcooking while the rest of the pie gets hot and bubbly inside.
How to Cook a Frozen Chicken Pot Pie
Cooking a frozen chicken pot pie in an air fryer is straightforward and delivers delicious results. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Selecting Your Pot Pie: Choose a frozen chicken pot pie that fits well in your air fryer basket. The right size ensures even cooking. Opt for high-quality pies for the best taste.
- Preheating: Before you start, preheat your air fryer to 350°F for about 3 minutes. A preheated air fryer helps cook the pot pie evenly from the start.
- Preparation: No washing, drying, or slicing is needed since you’re dealing with a frozen product. This simplifies the cooking process significantly.
- Seasoning: Typically, frozen chicken pot pies come pre-seasoned and ready to cook. However, if you prefer a bit more flavor, you can sprinkle some additional herbs or spices on top before cooking. Options like dried thyme, rosemary, or even a light brush of butter can enhance the flavor.
- Placing in the Air Fryer: Remove any outer packaging from the pot pie. If it’s in a metal tin, check your air fryer’s manual to ensure it’s safe to use. Place the pot pie in the air fryer basket. Make sure there’s space around it for air to circulate.
- Cooking Temperature and Time: Cook the pot pie at 350°F. Start with 20 minutes of cooking time for a medium-sized pie. If your pie is larger or if you’re not sure about the cooking time, it’s safe to start with this time and add more as needed.
- Checking for Doneness: The importance of cooking temperature and time cannot be overstated. They ensure the crust gets crispy and golden while the filling heats thoroughly. Use a food thermometer to check the center of the pie. It should reach 165°F to ensure it’s heated through.
- Arranging for Optimal Cooking: Proper placement in the air fryer basket is crucial. Do not stack pies or place them too close to each other if cooking multiple pies. This ensures hot air can circulate freely, cooking the pie evenly and crisping the crust.
Adjustments might be needed based on your specific air fryer model or the size of the pot pie, so don’t hesitate to adapt these guidelines to fit your needs.
How to Reheat Chicken Pot Pie in the Air Fryer
Reheating a chicken pot pie in the air fryer ensures it stays crispy on the outside and warm and creamy on the inside, without getting soggy.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. This helps the pie heat evenly.
- Wrap the chicken pot pie in aluminum foil if it’s already been cut into to keep the moisture in and prevent the crust from burning.
- Place the wrapped or unwrapped pie in the air fryer basket.
- Heat for about 10 minutes. The time depends on the size of the pie and whether it’s chilled or at room temperature.
- Check halfway through reheating to see if it’s warming evenly. Adjust the position in the air fryer if necessary.
- Serve once it’s heated through and the crust is crispy to your liking.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
When serving a frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer, consider these pairing options to complete your meal:
- Side Salad: A fresh, green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pot pie.
- Steamed Vegetables: Brighten up your plate with some steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: For colder months, roasted parsnips, carrots, or sweet potatoes make a hearty side.
- Cranberry Sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory pie.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Frozen Pot Pie
Cooking a frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer provides a delightfully crispy crust, a welcome change from the often soggy results of microwaving. Here are ways to ensure perfection:
- Avoid Overcrowding: For even cooking, keep space between items like when making banquet apple pie in the air fryer.
- Correct Temperature and Time: Start with recommended settings, then adjust based on your air fryer model and the specific item’s needs.
- Foil Can Be Your Friend: If the crust browns too quickly, lightly cover with foil.
- Preheat for Best Results: A preheated air fryer ensures a crispy exterior from the start.
- Check Halfway: Especially when trying to reheat chicken pot pie in the air fryer, check halfway to adjust the time or temperature if needed.
Avoid common mistakes like not preheating, overcrowding the basket, or skipping a mid-cook check. These simple steps can drastically improve your cooking experience.
Also see: Tyson Teriyaki Chicken Air Fryer
FAQs About Cooking Frozen Pot Pie in an Air Fryer
How long do you cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer?
Cook a frozen pot pie in an air fryer for about 20 minutes at 350°F, checking for doneness towards the end of cooking time.
Can you cook a pot pie in an air fryer without thawing it first?
Yes, you can cook a pot pie in an air fryer without thawing it first. Cooking directly from frozen ensures a crispy crust and hot filling.
What are the best air fryer settings for cooking a frozen pot pie?
The best air fryer settings for a frozen pot pie are 350°F for 20 minutes, adjusting based on the pie’s size and your air fryer model.
Can you cook meat pies in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook meat pies in the air fryer. The process is similar to cooking a frozen pot pie, providing a crispy crust and evenly cooked filling.
Final Words
Choosing to make your frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer, or even a banquet apple pie in the air fryer, is a decision you won’t regret. This method not only offers a crispy, golden crust but also a quicker, healthier way to enjoy your favorite pies.
Remember, the key to success lies in not overcrowding the air fryer, using the right temperature settings, and being open to slight adjustments.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and enjoy the process. Each pie, whether savory or sweet, is an opportunity to refine your air frying skills and discover new taste sensations.
See all in at KitGiz for Air Fryer recipes.
