Name: Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 700 g (1½ lb) boneless chicken thighs (chicken breasts can also be used); 1 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp Garam Masala; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp Butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tbsp Garam Masala; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp ground cardamom; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tsp ground ginger; 400 g (14 oz) chopped tomatoes; 1 cup tomato puree (Tomato passata can be used); ½ cup chicken stock; 1 cup cream; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp sugar, or to taste; 400 g (14 oz) Puff pastry; 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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If you love the rich, comforting flavors of Indian cuisine and the flaky, buttery goodness of classic pot pies, get ready for a match made in heaven with this Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe. This dish takes the iconic creamy butter chicken you adore, wraps it in crisp, golden puff pastry, and transforms it into a cozy, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with loved ones, every bite offers a perfect harmony of spices, creamy texture, and satisfying crunch that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a black instant pot with a shiny silver inner pot, there is a thick orange sauce with visible small chunks of food throughout. A light wooden spoon with a hole in the handle rests inside the sauce, its end partly covered by the sauce. The pot is sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, staple ingredients come together to create a deeply flavorful and visually stunning Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe. Each element plays a key role, from the tender marinated chicken to the aromatic spices and the buttery puff pastry that finishes it all off with a golden, crispy lid.

700 g chicken thighs: Boneless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but you can substitute with breasts if preferred.
1 cup Greek yogurt: This tangy base is essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding creaminess to the marinade.
Garam Masala: Used both in the marinade and the sauce, this spice blend is the heart and soul of authentic butter chicken flavor.
Butter: Helps soften the onions and garlic and adds richness to the sauce.
Onion and garlic: Provide a flavorful foundation with their natural sweetness and pungency.
Ground turmeric, cardamom, paprika, coriander, and ginger: These spices build layers of warm and complex flavors throughout the dish.
Chopped tomatoes and tomato puree: Bring vibrant color and a subtle acidity that balances the creaminess.
Chicken stock: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
Cream: Creates the silky smooth texture that defines butter chicken sauce.
Salt, pepper, and sugar: To season and balance the dish perfectly.
400 g puff pastry: The flaky, buttery crust that elevates this butter chicken into a satisfying pot pie.
Egg (beaten): For brushing the pastry and giving it that irresistible glossy finish.

How to Make Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by slicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces and tossing it into a large bowl. Add the Greek yogurt, a couple of tablespoons of Garam Masala, and a teaspoon of salt. Mix everything thoroughly until every piece is well-coated. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with vibrant flavor but also makes it incredibly tender. Cover the bowl and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight in the fridge for maximum depth of flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Spices

In a large pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter until it’s foaming lightly. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the crushed garlic and the remaining spices: Garam Masala, turmeric, cardamom, paprika, coriander, and ground ginger. Cook gently until the spices release their aroma, filling your kitchen with the warm scent that promises something special.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken and Build the Sauce

Add the marinated chicken to the pan and allow it to sear, stirring regularly so the pieces get slightly golden and flavorful on all sides. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and chicken stock next, then reduce the heat to let everything simmer. Allow the sauce to bubble away gently for about 20 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Finish the Butter Chicken Sauce

Once the chicken is ready, stir in the cream slowly and let it cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to create an irresistibly silky sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and a touch of sugar to balance the tanginess of the tomatoes. Remove the pan from the heat, savor the rich aroma, and prepare for the next step.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Pot Pie

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the butter chicken into a casserole or pie dish, spreading it out evenly. Thaw your puff pastry if it’s frozen and place it over the top, carefully crimping the edges to seal in the delicious filling. Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape. Brush the entire surface with beaten egg to ensure a glossy, golden crust. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the puff pastry is puffed up and perfectly golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

How to Serve Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe

The image shows a golden-brown baked pie in a white rectangular baking dish on a white marbled surface. The pie has a thick, flaky crust that covers it fully, with some darker browned edges around the rim. Pieces of fresh green parsley leaves are scattered on top, adding a pop of color. A wooden spoon rests inside the dish, scooping out a portion that reveals the inside filled with orange-brown chunky filling sandwiched between layers of crust. The pie crust looks crispy and flaky with slight cracks, and the overall scene is bright and clean. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes brings the dish to the next level. Try sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts with the rich sauce. A few thin slices of red chili add a subtle heat and a pop of vibrant red, perfect to excite your palate.

Side Dishes

This pot pie is quite substantial on its own, but a light side salad with crisp greens, cucumber, and a zesty lemon dressing offers a refreshing balance. For a heartier meal, steamed basmati rice or lightly spiced roasted vegetables complement the buttery, creamy flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and inviting presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with personal puff pastry lids. This makes the dish feel extra special at dinner parties. Alternatively, serve it family-style straight from the casserole dish, allowing everyone to enjoy the warm, flaky topping and a hearty helping of butter chicken underneath.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe keeps its wonderful flavors well, making it perfect for easy next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze the pot pie before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. This makes it a lifesaver for busy weeks.

Reheating

To reheat, place individual portions on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through and the pastry is crisp again—usually about 15 minutes. Microwaving is possible but will soften the crust and alter the textural delight of the puff pastry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well but keep an eye on cooking time since they can dry out faster. Marinating thoroughly helps keep the meat tender and flavorful.

What if I don’t have puff pastry?

While puff pastry is ideal for the flaky texture, you could experiment with phyllo dough or even homemade pie crust, but the results will be different. Puff pastry gives this dish its signature buttery crunch.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like cauliflower florets, chickpeas, or paneer cubes to keep the satisfying texture and soak up the creamy butter chicken sauce.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. The butter chicken sauce can be made up to a day in advance and refrigerated. Bring it back to a simmer when assembling the pot pie before topping with pastry and baking.

How spicy is this Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe?

This recipe uses mild to moderate spices to keep it cozy and comforting, perfect for all palates. Feel free to adjust the amount of chili or spice blends to suit your preference.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about wrapping tender, spiced butter chicken inside a flaky puff pastry shell to create this unforgettable Butter Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Puff Pastry Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, guaranteed to bring joy to your dinner table. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and fall in love with every savory, buttery bite!