Properly storing your chicken pot pie ensures it stays fresh, safe, and delicious for your next meal. Whether homemade or store-bought, taking the right steps will help maintain its flavor and texture while preventing food waste.

Why Proper Storage Matters

Storing food correctly isn’t just about convenience—it’s essential for food safety. Per the USDA Food Safety Guidelines, cooked food left out for more than two hours is prone to bacterial growth, making it unsafe to eat.

Additionally, improper storage can ruin your pot pie’s delicate balance of flaky crust and creamy filling. If you’re concerned about keeping the crust crispy, check out this helpful guide on how to keep the bottom crust of chicken pot pie from getting soggy.

Steps to Refrigerate Chicken Pot Pie

1. Cool It Properly

Before refrigerating, let your chicken pot pie cool down completely. Placing hot food directly in the fridge can cause condensation, leading to sogginess and uneven cooling.

• Set the pie on a wire rack to cool evenly.
• Allow it to reach room temperature (30–45 minutes).

2. Use Airtight Containers

Airtight containers are ideal for preventing your pie from absorbing unwanted fridge odors. If you’ve prepared a homemade pie, consider slicing it into portions before storing.

• Whole Pie Storage: Place the entire pie in a large, sealed container.
• Portion Storage: Divide the pie into servings, and use small containers for easy reheating.

For tips on storing specific pot pie varieties, check out this article on Pillsbury chicken pot pie.

How Long Can It Stay in the Fridge?

Refrigerated chicken pot pie can last for 3–5 days. To ensure safety, always inspect leftovers before reheating:

• Check for foul odors or discoloration.
• Look for signs of mold on the crust or filling.

If you don’t plan to eat it within this window, freezing is a great alternative. Learn how to freeze pot pies properly in this detailed guide on keeping chicken pot pies fresh.

Reheating Tips for Refrigerated Pot Pie

To restore your chicken pot pie to its original glory, reheating correctly is crucial. Here are three methods:

Oven Method (Recommended)

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the pie on a baking tray and cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Heat for 20–30 minutes, removing the foil in the last 10 minutes for a crispy crust.

Microwave Method (Quick Option)

• Cut the pie into portions for even heating.
• Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.

Air Fryer Method (For Small Servings)

• Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Heat for 10–12 minutes, ensuring the crust remains flaky.

FAQs About Storing Chicken Pot Pie

1. Can You Refrigerate an Unbaked Pie?

Yes! Storing an unbaked pie is often the best option if you want a freshly baked taste later. Keep the filling and crust separate to avoid a soggy bottom.

2. Is It Safe to Eat Pot Pie Left Out Overnight?

No. Per food safety guidelines, cooked food left at room temperature for over two hours should be discarded.

3. How Does Homemade Compare to Store-Bought?

Homemade pies typically have fewer preservatives, meaning they might spoil faster. However, their freshness and flavor make the extra care worthwhile.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can store your chicken pot pie effectively, preserving its texture, flavor, and safety. From cooling to reheating, every detail matters when dealing with a dish as delicious as this. For additional inspiration and pot pie variations, explore delicious recipes to elevate your culinary repertoire.