Do you crave a quick, warm, and satisfying meal? Look no further than frozen pot pie in the air fryer! This easy recipe will have your taste buds singing with its deliciously thick filling of meat, potatoes, and veggies.
Are Banquet Pot Pies Precooked?
The answer is both yes and no! While all the ingredients in the pot pie have been pre-cooked, the crust itself remains uncooked. You’ll find instructions on the packaging, suggesting either microwave or oven cooking. However, with an air fryer in hand, we can combine the best of both worlds to create a mouthwatering Banquet Pot Pie.
Benefits of Cooking in an Air Fryer
Why should you choose to make pot pie in an air fryer? Well, besides my personal obsession with air frying everything, here are some compelling reasons:
- Doesn’t heat up the house: It’s hot outside, and turning on the oven to make a pot pie isn’t appealing. The air fryer doesn’t generate the same amount of heat, keeping your kitchen cool.
- Quick and easy main dish: Pot pies are a perfect option for busy weeknights. Pair them with a couple of vegetable side dishes, and you have a complete meal.
- Crisp crust: While you can microwave pot pies faster, the crust won’t be crispy. Air fryer pot pies boast a delightfully crisp crust that won’t disappoint. Plus, you don’t need to dirty another pan by removing the pot pie from its metal pie tin before microwaving it.
- Family-friendly meal: Pot pies are a beloved dish for many children and even adults. Reminiscent of the good old days, this recipe is sure to transport you back in time.
Can You Cook a Frozen Banquet Pot Pie in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! You can confidently cook your frozen Banquet pot pie in the air fryer, and the results will be nothing short of delicious. Whether it’s chicken, turkey, or veggie pot pie, the cooking method remains the same. Follow the simple steps below.
How to Make Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer?
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Remove any plastic wrap or packaging from the pot pie.
- Keep the aluminum pan that came with it for serving. If your pot pie has a bottom crust in a paper pie plate, note that it will cook differently.
- No need for vent holes in the pot pie crust. Simply place it on the hot air fryer tray or basket and cover it with foil.
- Cover the entire top of the pot pie with foil for even browning. It enhances the appearance of the finished cooked pot pie.
- Place the pot pie in the center of the air fryer and let it cook.
Should You Thaw Frozen Banquet Pot Pie Before Air Frying?
Absolutely not! The magic of cooking a frozen pot pie lies in going from rock hard to tender and warm. Thawing the pot pie first will result in a different texture, with a dreaded mushy crust underneath. Embrace the beauty of cooking it directly from frozen.
Can You Put Aluminum Foil in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use aluminum foil in your air fryer, but it’s not always the best option. Be cautious to avoid harmful situations. It’s safe to use aluminum foil in the basket of the air fryer. However, remember that acidic foods can react with aluminum, so avoid using it with ingredients like tomatoes and citrus.
Is the Chicken in Frozen Pot Pies Precooked?
While the chicken cubes in the pot pies are pre-cooked, the vegetables and dough are not. So, rest assured that the brand you choose has already taken care of cooking the chicken to perfection.
Are Frozen Pot Pies Healthy?
Frozen chicken pot pies tend to have high levels of sodium, fat, and cholesterol. However, they are not inherently bad for you. As long as you maintain a reasonably balanced diet, frozen chicken pot pies can be a part of your meal rotation without any major concerns. So, enjoy them guilt-free!
Storage Tips
It’s best to enjoy air-fried pot pies while they’re still piping hot and fresh. Typically served in personalized portions, leftovers can be covered and refrigerated. Be aware, though, that the inner broth and filling may cause the crust to become mushy quickly.
Recipe Tips
Before embarking on your air fryer pot pie journey, keep these tips and substitutions in mind:
- No need to defrost the frozen pot pie. Place it directly into the preheated air fryer.
- Swanson brand pot pie was used in this recipe, but feel free to explore other brands and fillings like beef or veggie. Cooking times may vary slightly.
- Be aware of the weight of your pot pie, as the cooking time will vary depending on its size.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How To Make A Frozen Chicken Pot Pie In The Air Fryer
- Frozen Pot Pie in Air Fryer (Chicken or Turkey!)
- The Best Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
For more fantastic recipes and cooking inspiration, visit Ekilove. Get ready to elevate your air fryer game with this delectable Banquet Pot Pie recipe!
