Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today I’m super excited to share with you my absolute favorite comfort food hack – cooking Sam’s Club chicken pot pie to absolute perfection! If you’ve ever grabbed one of these massive, delicious pies from the store but weren’t quite sure how to make it taste as amazing as it looks, you’re in the right place.
I’ve been cooking these pot pies for years, and through lots of trial and error (and yes, a few burnt crusts along the way!), I’ve figured out exactly how to get that golden, flaky crust while keeping the filling hot and bubbling with flavor So let’s dive into the wonderful world of Sam’s Club pot pies!
What Makes Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie Special?
Before we get to the cooking instructions, let’s talk about why these pies are worth the effort. Sam’s Club Members Mark Chicken Pot Pies are seriously massive – they can easily feed a family of 6 or more! They’re packed with tender chunks of chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, savory sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.
What I love most is that they’re made with quality ingredients but come at a fraction of the cost of making a pot pie from scratch Plus, they save me tons of time in the kitchen when I’m craving comfort food but don’t have hours to spend cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is the name of the game here! You’ll need:
- 1 Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie (obviously!)
- Cooking spray or a bit of oil (to prevent sticking)
- Optional: 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1/2 cup milk (for brushing the crust)
- Optional: 1/4 cup butter (for extra richness)
- Oven-safe dish or baking pan
That’s it! The beauty of these pot pies is that all the hard work is already done for you.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting your oven nice and hot before putting the pie in is crucial for that perfect crust!
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Prep your baking dish by lightly coating it with cooking spray or oil. This will prevent your pot pie from sticking to the bottom – trust me, you don’t want to lose any of that delicious filling!
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Remove the packaging from your Sam’s Club chicken pot pie. Be careful when unwrapping it as the pie can be a bit fragile when frozen.
Optional Crust Enhancements
Want to take your pot pie to the next level? Try these optional steps:
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Egg Wash: Beat one egg with a tablespoon of water and brush it over the top crust. This will give your pie that gorgeous golden-brown shine you see in fancy bakeries!
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Milk Brush: Alternatively, you can brush the top with milk for a similar effect.
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Butter Boost: For extra richness and flavor, dot small pieces of butter across the top crust. As it melts, it’ll seep into the crust making it extra flaky and delicious.
Baking Process
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Place the pot pie in your prepared baking dish or pan, making sure it fits comfortably.
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Transfer to the oven and bake for approximately 60-75 minutes. The exact time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it!
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Check for doneness by looking for these signs:
- The crust should be golden brown (not pale, not burnt!)
- The filling should be bubbling around the edges
- A toothpick or skewer inserted into the center should come out clean
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Let it rest! This is maybe the hardest part, but it’s super important. Once you remove the pot pie from the oven, let it stand for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set so it doesn’t all run out when you cut into it.
Pro Tips for Pot Pie Perfection
After making dozens of these pies, I’ve learned a few tricks that really make a difference:
Temperature Matters
If your pot pie is completely frozen, you might need to add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time. Don’t try to rush it by cranking up the heat – that’ll just burn the crust while leaving the center cold.
Crust Protection
If you notice the crust is browning too quickly but the filling isn’t done yet, loosely cover the edges with aluminum foil. This shields the crust from direct heat while allowing the filling to continue cooking.
Baking Surface Choices
For a crispier bottom crust, try placing the pot pie on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. The direct heat helps to prevent the dreaded “soggy bottom.”
Serving Suggestions
These pot pies are pretty much a complete meal on their own, but I love to serve mine with a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness and acidity balance the richness of the pie perfectly!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best cooks run into problems sometimes! Here are solutions to common pot pie predicaments:
Crust Too Brown
If your crust is getting too dark before the filling is hot, reduce the oven temperature by 25 degrees and cover the pie loosely with foil.
Filling Too Watery
This can happen if the pie hasn’t cooked long enough or if it’s cut into too soon after baking. Make sure to let it rest those full 10-15 minutes before serving!
Undercooked Pie
If you’ve followed the time guidelines but the filling still isn’t hot enough, return it to the oven for increments of 5-10 minutes until it’s bubbling around the edges.
Overcooked Pie
An overcooked pot pie will have a very dark brown crust and might have a dry filling. Next time, check it earlier and remember that every oven is different!
Creative Variations to Try
While the classic Sam’s Club chicken pot pie is amazing on its own, sometimes it’s fun to add your own twist:
Add Extra Vegetables
I sometimes add additional frozen peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. Just lift the top crust carefully (if it’s not frozen solid) or add them around the edges.
Spice It Up
Add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs or spices before baking. Thyme, rosemary, or a dash of cayenne pepper can really enhance the flavors!
Cheese Please
Try sprinkling some shredded Parmesan or sharp cheddar on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
Make Mini Pies
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can divide the filling into individual ramekins and top each with a piece of the crust for personal pot pies! Adjust cooking time accordingly (they’ll cook faster).
Frequently Asked Questions
After sharing my pot pie techniques with friends and family, these are the questions I get asked most often:
Can I cook a frozen Sam’s Club chicken pot pie?
Absolutely! There’s no need to thaw it before cooking. Just pop it straight from the freezer into the preheated oven. You might need to add 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I cook Sam’s Club chicken pot pie in an air fryer?
Yes, but you’ll need a large air fryer! Cook at 325°F for about 40-50 minutes. Check it frequently since air fryers can vary significantly in how they cook.
How do I store leftover pot pie?
Once the pot pie has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pot pie?
For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the crust texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but will make the crust soggy.
Can I freeze leftover cooked pot pie?
Yes! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is there a vegetarian version available?
Sam’s Club does offer vegetarian pot pie options. Look for vegetable or tofu-based alternatives if you prefer a meatless version.
Can I make my own crust and use Sam’s Club filling?
Absolutely! If you love making homemade pie crust, you can certainly use that instead. Just make sure it’s large enough to cover the generous filling amount.
Health and Nutrition Considerations
Let’s be real – chicken pot pie isn’t exactly health food, but it’s all about balance! Here are some ways to make your pot pie meal a bit more nutritious:
- Serve smaller portions alongside a large salad or steamed vegetables
- Choose whole grain bread instead of rolls as a side
- Skip additional butter toppings if you’re watching fat intake
- Add extra vegetables to the filling for more nutrients
The History Behind the Comfort Food Classic
Chicken pot pie has been a staple comfort food in America for generations. The concept dates back centuries, with meat pies being popular throughout European history. Sam’s Club has perfected the mass-produced version, bringing this homestyle favorite to busy families everywhere.
I remember my grandmother making pot pies from scratch, spending hours in the kitchen. While nothing beats grandma’s cooking, these Sam’s Club pies come surprisingly close – with a fraction of the effort!
Why I Love Sam’s Club Chicken Pot Pie
I gotta tell you, as someone who juggles work, family, and trying to get dinner on the table every night, these pot pies have been a total lifesaver for me! On busy weeknights when I’m exhausted but still want to serve something hearty and homemade-tasting, I know I can count on having one of these in the freezer.
What’s really great is that they feel special enough for company too. I’ve actually served these at casual dinner parties, dressed up with that egg wash I mentioned and some fresh herbs sprinkled on top, and guests have raved about them! No one needs to know your delicious “homemade” pot pie came from Sam’s Club. That’ll be our little secret!
Final Thoughts
Cooking a Sam’s Club chicken pot pie isn’t complicated, but knowing the right techniques makes all the difference between a good pot pie and a great one. With the steps and tips I’ve shared, you’re well on your way to serving up a delicious, comforting meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Remember, cooking should be fun and stress-free! Don’t worry if your pot pie doesn’t look Instagram-perfect the first time. What matters most is that it tastes delicious and brings comfort to those you’re sharing it with.
Until next time, happy cooking and even happier eating!
P.S. – If you loved this post, be sure to check out my other comfort food hacks and shortcuts. I’m all about making delicious food accessible to busy people who still want to enjoy homestyle cooking!
Have you tried Sam’s Club chicken pot pie? What’s your favorite way to prepare it? Share your experiences in the comments below!
What is a chicken pot pie?
A classic chicken pot pie is a hearty meal. It often looks like a sweet fruit pie, like apple or cherry, but it has a savory filling. Its easy to confuse a chicken pot pie and cobbler, but a big giveaway will be the shape: A pie is round, but a cobbler will often be rectangular. Many times, youll find pot pies with a decorative lattice crust, like the classic apple pie. In most chicken pot pies, youll find chicken, carrots, celery, peas, and onion, all combined to form a filling that is the epitome of comfort food.
While you could always make a chicken pot pie from scratch at home, there are also plenty of brands that offer frozen pot pies that you heat in your oven. It takes the work out of this comforting meal and makes it something achievable, even during the busiest of weeks.
Some stores, notably Costco and Sams Club, offer many heat-and-eat meals, and one of the more impressive offerings at these warehouse stores is the chicken pot pies. Rather than being frozen, these meals are in refrigerator cases, ready for you to take home and eat.
At Costco, youll find the chicken pot pies in refrigerator coolers in front of a large bay of windows leading to a kitchen where employees are preparing the ready-to-cook meals. Sams Club also has its meals in large refrigerated coolers, but based on what Ive seen through various videos and social media posts, they arent directly in front of windows so that you can watch employees prepare the dishes. The kitchens at Sams Club arent so open to shoppers to view.
Price-wise, both stores price pot pies by weight. Costcos price per weight is $3.99 per pound. The pot pie I picked up was $22.58 total. Sams Club offers its pot pies for a little less, $3.78 a pound. If purchased in-store, my pie would have been $17.69. Unfortunately, since I do not have a Sams Club membership, I needed to purchase my pot pie over Instacart, which has a rather high markup. I paid $4.80 per pound for a total of $24 for the Sams Club pot pie.
Taste test: Costco chicken pot pie
Costcos ready-to-heat pot pie had wavy-cut crust strips forming a lattice-like top to the pot pie. Underneath, you can see big pieces of rotisserie chicken sticking out of the filling. Its contained in a large holder that is not simply a circle. Instead, its slightly wavy in places, making the removal of the pie from its container easier.
I cooked the pot pie according to package instructions until it reached 165 F. Although the package said this could take as long as an hour and a half, it was ready to go in one hour. I let it rest for a little to allow cooling and congealing time. In any case, it still wasnt the prettiest cut out of a pie Ive ever made, but even from that first cut, I could make out baby carrots and big pieces of chicken.
I found that in addition to it looking a little more homemade, less made by a machine, it also tasted that way. The crust wasnt much special, but I was more excited about the abundance of veggies. Seeing so many big pieces of bright colors makes it feel a little less heavy, even if a pot pie is nearly always a heavy dish.