Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie

• Story Behind the Recipe
• In a cozy kitchen on a chilly autumn evening, Sarah decided to experiment with a classic comfort food recipe, transforming it into a keto-friendly delight. Inspired by her love for creamy, savory pot pies and her commitment to a low-carb lifestyle, she set out to create a dish that would satisfy both her cravings and her dietary needs. Thus, the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie (Keto) was born. This dish quickly became a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks, where everyone marveled at how delicious and healthy it was. Sarah’s creation proved that with a bit of creativity, it’s possible to enjoy the best of both worlds: flavor and nutrition.
• Key Considerations
• Low-Carb Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients used are keto-friendly, avoiding high-carb vegetables and using alternative thickeners.
• Portion Control: Since keto recipes can be calorie-dense, be mindful of portion sizes.
• Freshness of Ingredients: Use fresh, organic vegetables and high-quality cheddar cheese to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
• Cooking Method: Properly cooking the chicken and vegetables to avoid sogginess and to ensure the pie has the perfect texture.
• Tips and Tricks
• Thickening the Sauce: Use xanthan gum or almond flour to thicken the sauce instead of traditional flour or cornstarch.
• Crust: Opt for a crust made with almond flour or coconut flour to keep it keto-friendly.
•  Cheese: Grate your own cheddar cheese to avoid the added carbs in pre-shredded varieties.
• Pre-cooking Ingredients: Pre-cook the chicken and vegetables to avoid excess moisture, which can make the pie soggy.
• Ingredients
• For the Filling:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp xanthan gum (optional for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Crust:

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened.
   • Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
   • Add the xanthan gum gradually, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
   • Stir in the cooked chicken, broccoli, and cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a large bowl, mix almond flour, coconut flour, shredded mozzarella, melted butter, egg, and salt until a dough forms.
   • Press half of the dough into the bottom of a pie dish to form the base crust. Bake for 10 minutes or until slightly golden.
   • Pour the chicken and broccoli filling into the baked crust.
   • Roll out the remaining dough and place it on top of the filling, sealing the edges.
   • Make small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.
3. Bake:
   • Bake the pot pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Storage Methods

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pot pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, add an additional 20-25 minutes to the baking time.

Variations

1. Vegetable Swap: Substitute broccoli with other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or spinach.
2.  Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère or Gouda for a unique flavor twist.
3. Protein Alternatives: Use turkey or ham instead of chicken for a different protein option.
4. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

1. Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, and high in fiber, which supports digestive health and boosts immunity.
2. Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
3. Chicken: A great source of lean protein, aiding in muscle repair and growth.
4. Almond Flour: Low in carbs and high in healthy fats, promoting satiety and supporting heart health.
5. Coconut Flour: High in fiber and low in carbs, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports digestive health.

Enjoy the delicious and nutritious Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Pot Pie, a perfect keto-friendly comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal