Can You Put Chicken Pot Pie in Air Fryer A Quick Guide

Yes, you can absolutely cook chicken pot pie in an air fryer—it’s a fast, convenient way to achieve a golden, flaky crust and evenly heated filling without the oven. Just place the frozen or refrigerated pie in the basket, cook at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, and enjoy a crispy, mess-free meal with minimal cleanup.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can air fry chicken pot pie for a quick, crispy meal.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and golden crust.
• Use oven-safe dish to prevent spills and maintain pie shape.
• Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and uneven heating.
• Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe, fully cooked pie.
• Adjust time for frozen pies—add 5–10 minutes for thorough heating.

Can You Put Chicken Pot Pie in Air Fryer? A Quick Guide

Picture this: It’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something warm, comforting, and hearty. Your mind instantly goes to a classic chicken pot pie—flaky crust, creamy filling, and chunks of tender chicken. But here’s the catch: You don’t want to wait an hour for your oven to preheat and cook it. Enter the air fryer. This kitchen gadget has become a game-changer for quick, crispy meals with minimal effort. But can you put chicken pot pie in an air fryer and still get that golden, delicious result? The answer is a resounding yes—with a few tricks up your sleeve.

As someone who’s experimented with everything from frozen pot pies to homemade versions in my air fryer, I can tell you it’s not just possible—it’s often better. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation gives the crust a crispiness that rivals the oven, while the filling stays juicy. Whether you’re using store-bought pies or crafting your own, this method is a lifesaver for busy weeknights, solo dinners, or even last-minute guests. But before you toss a pot pie into the air fryer basket, there are a few things to know to avoid soggy crusts or uneven cooking. Let’s dive in!

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Chicken Pot Pie

The air fryer isn’t just a trendy appliance; it’s a practical tool for modern cooking. Unlike traditional ovens, which take time to heat up and cook food slowly, air fryers use convection to circulate hot air rapidly. This means faster cooking, less energy, and often better texture. But why does this work so well for chicken pot pie?

Faster Cooking Time

Oven-baked chicken pot pie typically takes 40–50 minutes, but in an air fryer, you can cut that down to 15–25 minutes. For example, a store-bought frozen chicken pot pie that usually needs 45 minutes in the oven can be ready in under 20 minutes. This is perfect for those nights when you’re starving and don’t want to wait. Just pop it in, set the timer, and voilà—dinner is served.

Crispier Crust

One of the biggest challenges with reheating or cooking pot pie is getting a flaky, golden crust. Ovens often leave the bottom soggy, but the air fryer’s even heat distribution crisps the top and bottom simultaneously. Pro tip: Lightly brush the crust with melted butter or egg wash before cooking for an extra-shiny, crunchy finish.

Energy Efficiency

If you’re trying to save on energy bills (or just hate heating up your entire kitchen), the air fryer is a no-brainer. It uses up to 75% less energy than a conventional oven. Plus, it doesn’t require preheating, which saves even more time and power.

Small-Batch Cooking

Got a single pot pie or a mini version? The air fryer is ideal for cooking small portions without wasting space or energy. No need to fire up the oven for one serving—just slide the pie into the basket and let the air fryer work its magic.

How to Cook Frozen Chicken Pot Pie in the Air Fryer

Frozen pot pies are a pantry staple, but they often come with a caveat: “Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes.” With an air fryer, you can skip the oven and get better results. Here’s how to do it right.

Step-by-Step Guide

• Prep the pie: Remove the pot pie from its packaging, but keep it in the foil dish (if it came in one). This helps retain heat and prevents the pie from drying out.
• Preheat the air fryer (optional): Some models benefit from a 2–3 minute preheat at 360°F. If your air fryer has a preheat setting, use it. If not, just start cooking.
• Place the pie in the basket: Arrange the pie in the center of the basket, ensuring there’s space around it for air to circulate. If you’re cooking multiple pies, leave at least 1 inch between them.
• Cook at 360°F for 15–18 minutes: Start with 15 minutes, then check the crust. If it’s golden and crisp, the pie is likely done. If not, add 2–3 more minutes. For thicker pies, you might need up to 20 minutes.
• Let it rest for 3–5 minutes: This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice without spilling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Soggy crust? This usually happens if the pie is overcrowded or cooked at too low a temperature. Increase the heat to 375°F or flip the pie halfway through (if possible).
• Uneven cooking? Pies with thick crusts or dense fillings might cook faster on top than the bottom. Try rotating the basket halfway through or using a lower temperature (350°F) for a longer time (20–22 minutes).
• Too dry? Brush the crust with butter or olive oil before cooking to keep it moist. You can also cover the top with foil for the first 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Example: Store-Brand Frozen Pot Pie

I recently tested a popular brand of frozen chicken pot pie in my 5.8-quart air fryer. At 360°F for 16 minutes, it came out perfectly golden with a creamy, hot filling. The crust was crispy on top and tender on the bottom—no soggy mess. Compared to the oven, it saved 30 minutes and used less energy. Win-win!

Cooking Homemade Chicken Pot Pie in the Air Fryer

Homemade chicken pot pie is a labor of love, but it doesn’t have to be a time-consuming process. The air fryer can handle homemade pies too, with a few adjustments to ensure success.

Choosing the Right Crust

The crust is the make-or-break element of any pot pie. For air frying, opt for a butter-based or flaky pastry crust (like puff pastry or a homemade shortcrust). Avoid crumb or graham cracker crusts—they’ll turn mushy. If you’re making your own crust, roll it slightly thinner than usual (about 1/8 inch) to ensure even cooking.

Filling Tips

• Pre-cook the filling: Sauté your chicken, veggies, and sauce before assembling the pie. This ensures everything is fully cooked and reduces the risk of a raw center.
• Don’t overfill: Leave at least 1/2 inch of space between the filling and the top crust to prevent overflow. Too much filling can make the pie burst or cook unevenly.
• Use a thickener: A roux (butter + flour) or cornstarch slurry will help the filling set, preventing a runny mess when you slice into it.

Assembling and Cooking

1. Place the bottom crust in an air fryer-safe dish or ramekin (glass or metal works best).
2. Add the pre-cooked filling, then top with the second crust. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers.
3. Brush the top with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) for shine, or melted butter for flavor.
4. Cut 2–3 small slits in the top crust to let steam escape.
5. Air fry at 375°F for 18–22 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

Example: My Go-To Homemade Recipe

For a 6-inch homemade pot pie, I pre-cook 1 cup diced chicken, 1 cup mixed veggies (carrots, peas, celery), and a creamy sauce (milk, flour, chicken broth). I use store-bought puff pastry for the crust, cut into two circles. After assembling, I air fry it at 375°F for 20 minutes. The result? A restaurant-quality pie with minimal effort.

Air Fryer Settings and Times for Different Pot Pies

Not all pot pies are created equal—some are thicker, some are frozen, and others are mini-sized. Here’s a handy guide to help you adjust cooking times and temperatures.

General Guidelines

• Frozen store-bought pies: 360°F for 15–20 minutes (flip halfway if possible).
• Homemade pies (6-inch): 375°F for 18–22 minutes.
• Mini pot pies (3-inch): 350°F for 12–15 minutes.
• Large pot pies (9-inch): Not recommended for most air fryers (too big for the basket). Use a toaster oven or conventional oven instead.

Temperature Adjustments

• 350°F: Ideal for delicate crusts or reheating leftovers. Prevents over-browning.
• 360°F: The sweet spot for most frozen and homemade pies.
• 375°F: Best for thick crusts or dense fillings. Use if your pie is browning too slowly.

Pie Type	Temperature	Time	Notes
Frozen store-bought	360°F	15–20 min	Flip halfway if possible
Homemade (6-inch)	375°F	18–22 min	Pre-cook filling first
Mini (3-inch)	350°F	12–15 min	Use ramekins
Reheated leftovers	350°F	8–10 min	Cover with foil to prevent drying

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, things can go wrong when cooking chicken pot pie in the air fryer. Here are the pitfalls I’ve learned from (sometimes the hard way).

Overcrowding the Basket

Air fryers rely on circulation, so cramming too many pies or oversized dishes into the basket will block airflow. This leads to uneven cooking and soggy spots. Stick to one 6-inch pie or two mini pies at a time.

Skipping the Resting Time

Cutting into a pot pie immediately after cooking will cause the filling to spill everywhere. Let it rest for 3–5 minutes to allow the sauce to set. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Ignoring the Crust’s Needs

A dry crust is a sad crust. Brush it with butter, egg wash, or even a little milk before cooking to keep it moist and golden. For extra flavor, sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs.

Using the Wrong Dish

Not all dishes are air fryer-safe. Avoid plastic, ceramic, or dishes with non-stick coatings that can’t withstand high heat. Stick to metal, glass, or oven-safe silicone.

Not Checking for Doneness

Every air fryer is different, so don’t rely solely on the timer. Check the crust’s color and use a meat thermometer to ensure the filling reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Creative Variations and Leftovers

The air fryer isn’t just for cooking pot pies—it’s also a great way to reheat leftovers or try creative variations.

Reheating Leftover Pot Pie

Reheating in the oven often dries out the crust, but the air fryer brings it back to life. Place the pie in the basket, cover loosely with foil, and air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. The crust stays crisp, and the filling reheats evenly.

Mini Pot Pie Ideas

Mini pot pies are perfect for parties or portion control. Try these twists:

• Vegetarian pot pie: Swap chicken for mushrooms, tofu, or lentils.
• Turkey pot pie: Use leftover turkey and gravy for a post-holiday treat.
• Breakfast pot pie: Fill with scrambled eggs, cheese, and bacon.

Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Options

For dietary restrictions, use gluten-free flour in the filling and a gluten-free crust (like almond flour or store-bought GF puff pastry). For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil and use a plant-based milk in the sauce.

Example: Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

After Thanksgiving, I used leftover turkey, gravy, and veggies to make mini pot pies in ramekins. Air fried at 350°F for 12 minutes, they were a hit with my family—and a great way to use up leftovers!

So, can you put chicken pot pie in an air fryer? Absolutely. With the right technique, you’ll get a crispy, golden crust and a creamy, hot filling in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re cooking from frozen, making your own, or reheating leftovers, the air fryer delivers convenience without sacrificing flavor. Just remember to adjust the time and temperature based on your pie’s size, and don’t skip the resting step. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put chicken pot pie in air fryer?

Yes, you can cook chicken pot pie in an air fryer! It’s a quick and convenient way to enjoy a crispy crust and hot, savory filling without using the oven.

How long do you cook a chicken pot pie in the air fryer?

Most frozen chicken pot pies take 12–18 minutes in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C), depending on size and thickness. Check for a golden crust and internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to thaw a frozen chicken pot pie before air frying?

No, you can air fry a frozen chicken pot pie directly—no thawing needed. Cooking from frozen helps the crust stay flaky and prevents the filling from drying out.

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy crust when cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer?

To avoid a soggy crust, lightly brush the top with butter or oil and cook in a single layer with space for air circulation. This ensures even browning and crispiness.

Can you put a store-bought chicken pot pie in the air fryer?

Yes, most store-bought chicken pot pies (frozen or refrigerated) work well in the air fryer. Just follow the package instructions and adjust air fryer cook time accordingly.

What temperature should the air fryer be for chicken pot pie?

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results. This temperature crisps the crust while thoroughly heating the filling without burning.