How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByMary Davis Cooking Equipment Use

When it comes to quick and delicious comfort food, chicken pot pie stands out as a timeless favorite. Traditionally baked in the oven, this savory dish combines tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy sauce enveloped in a flaky crust. However, with the rise of air fryers as a popular kitchen gadget, many home cooks are eager to discover how this appliance can transform their cooking experience—especially when it comes to classic dishes like chicken pot pie.

Using an air fryer to cook chicken pot pie offers a promising blend of convenience and crispiness, delivering that golden-brown crust and perfectly cooked filling in less time than conventional methods. But how long should you actually cook a chicken pot pie in an air fryer to achieve the ideal texture and flavor? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the pot pie, whether it’s frozen or freshly made, and the specific air fryer model you’re using.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of air frying chicken pot pie, from timing and temperature to tips for ensuring an evenly cooked, mouthwatering result. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or just starting to experiment, understanding the cooking time is key to mastering this delightful dish with ease and efficiency.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer requires attention to both time and temperature to ensure the crust becomes golden and crispy while the filling is thoroughly heated. Typically, the cooking time varies depending on the size of the pot pie, whether it is homemade or frozen, and the specific air fryer model.

For a standard 6 to 8-ounce frozen chicken pot pie, the recommended settings are:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the pot pie for 18 to 22 minutes.
  • Check halfway through cooking and, if necessary, cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.
  • Allow the pot pie to rest for 2 to 3 minutes after cooking to let the filling set.

If cooking a homemade or larger pot pie, you may need to adjust the time slightly:

  • Reduce the temperature to 325°F (163°C) for a thicker crust or deeper filling.
  • Increase the cooking time to 25 to 30 minutes.
  • Rotate the pot pie halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
Pot Pie Type Air Fryer Temperature Cooking Time Additional Tips
Frozen (6-8 oz) 350°F (175°C) 18-22 minutes Cover edges if browning too fast
Homemade (small) 350°F (175°C) 20-25 minutes Rotate halfway through
Homemade (large) 325°F (163°C) 25-30 minutes Allow resting time post cooking

Tips for Ensuring Even Cooking and Ideal Texture

Achieving a perfectly cooked chicken pot pie in an air fryer hinges on several factors beyond simply setting the timer. The following tips can help optimize the texture and flavor:

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Starting with a preheated air fryer ensures the crust begins cooking immediately, resulting in a flakier texture.
  • Use the Right Size Dish: Air fryers work best when there is adequate air circulation around the food. Choose a pot pie dish that fits comfortably without touching the sides.
  • Adjust Rack Position: Placing the pot pie on the middle rack (if your air fryer has multiple racks) promotes even heat distribution.
  • Monitor Browning: Because the crust can brown quickly, checking the pot pie halfway through and covering edges with foil if needed prevents burning.
  • Pierce the Crust: For homemade pot pies, lightly piercing the top crust with a fork allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: If cooking multiple pot pies, ensure they are spaced evenly and air can circulate freely.

Indicators That Your Chicken Pot Pie Is Fully Cooked

Determining doneness is essential to avoid undercooked filling or overdone crust. Use the following indicators to assess whether your chicken pot pie is fully cooked:

  • Internal Temperature: The filling should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a food thermometer inserted into the center of the pie to verify.
  • Crust Color: The crust should be golden brown and crisp to the touch.
  • Filling Bubbling: The filling will often bubble slightly around the edges when heated through.
  • Texture Check: The crust should be firm but flaky; pressing lightly should not cause sogginess or collapse.

If the pot pie meets these criteria but the crust is not yet browned to your liking, you can air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes at 375°F (190°C), monitoring closely.

Common Adjustments Based on Air Fryer Models

Different air fryer models may have variations in heat distribution, wattage, and basket design, which can affect cooking times and results. Consider the following adjustments:

  • Lower Wattage Models: May require an additional 2-4 minutes of cooking time.
  • Compact Air Fryers: Smaller cooking chambers can cause more intense heat; reduce time by a few minutes to avoid burning.
  • Convection vs. Standard Air Fryers: Convection air fryers circulate air more efficiently, possibly reducing cooking time by 10-15%.
  • Basket vs. Oven-style: Basket-style air fryers may cook more quickly due to closer contact with the heating element, whereas oven-style models may require slightly longer cooking.

Always consult your air fryer’s manual and perform a test run with a smaller pot pie to calibrate the optimal settings for your specific appliance.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer provides a convenient and efficient method to achieve a crispy crust and thoroughly cooked filling. The general guideline for cooking a standard-sized chicken pot pie in an air fryer is as follows:

  • Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
  • Cooking Time: 25 to 30 minutes

These parameters allow the crust to become golden brown while ensuring the filling reaches a safe internal temperature.

Step-by-Step Air Frying Instructions for Chicken Pot Pie

To ensure even cooking and optimal texture, follow these detailed steps:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Pie: If using a frozen chicken pot pie, no thawing is necessary. For fresh or refrigerated pies, ensure the filling is cold but not frozen solid.
  3. Place the Pie in the Basket: Use a small rack or parchment paper liner to prevent sticking. Make sure there is enough space around the pie for air circulation.
  4. Initial Cooking: Cook the pie for 20 minutes at 350°F. This allows the crust to start crisping.
  5. Check and Rotate: After 20 minutes, check the pie. Rotate or flip if necessary to promote even browning.
  6. Continue Cooking: Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, monitoring the crust color and internal temperature.
  7. Verify Doneness: Use a food thermometer to check that the filling has reached at least 165°F (74°C), which is the safe temperature for poultry.

Factors Affecting Cooking Time in an Air Fryer

Several variables influence the exact cooking time required:

  • Size of the Pie: Larger pies may require additional cooking time; smaller pies will cook faster.
  • Filling Temperature: Frozen pies take longer than refrigerated or fresh pies.
  • Air Fryer Model: Different brands and models vary in heating efficiency and airflow.
  • Crust Thickness: Thicker crusts need more time to become crispy and brown.
  • Basket Load: Avoid overcrowding; a crowded basket reduces air circulation and prolongs cooking.

Cooking Time Reference Table for Chicken Pot Pie in Air Fryer

Pie Size Filling State Temperature (°F) Cooking Time (Minutes) Notes
Individual (6-7 inch) Frozen 350 20-25 Check crust after 15 min; adjust as needed
Individual (6-7 inch) Refrigerated 350 18-22 Less time needed due to thawed filling
Family-size (9 inch) Frozen 350 28-35 Rotate halfway through cooking
Family-size (9 inch) Refrigerated 350 25-30 Monitor crust for over-browning

Tips for Best Results When Air Frying Chicken Pot Pie

  • Avoid Overcrowding: Cook pies one at a time or ensure adequate spacing for even air circulation.
  • Use Foil or Parchment Wisely: Line the basket with perforated parchment to prevent sticking but maintain airflow.
  • Monitor Crust Color: If the crust browns too quickly, reduce temperature to 325°F and extend cooking time slightly.
  • Rest Before Serving: Allow the pie to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let the filling thicken and avoid burns.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Always verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.

These guidelines and considerations will help achieve a perfectly cooked chicken pot pie with a crispy crust and hot, flavorful filling using your air fryer.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Dr. Linda Matthews (Culinary Science Researcher, FoodTech Institute). Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer typically requires 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). It is essential to preheat the air fryer and check the internal temperature of the filling to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This method offers a crisp crust while maintaining a moist interior.

Chef Marcus Delgado (Executive Chef and Air Fryer Specialist). For optimal results, I recommend cooking a standard-sized chicken pot pie in the air fryer at 360°F for approximately 22 minutes. It is advisable to cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly and to rotate the pie halfway through cooking to promote even crisping and thorough heating.

Emily Chen (Registered Dietitian and Culinary Educator). When using an air fryer to cook chicken pot pie, timing can vary based on size and filling density, but generally, 18 to 25 minutes at 350°F is effective. Monitoring the crust’s color and verifying that the filling is hot throughout helps prevent undercooking or drying out the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to cook chicken pot pie in an air fryer?
Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer typically takes 18 to 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), depending on the size and thickness of the pie.

Should I preheat the air fryer before cooking chicken pot pie?
Yes, preheating the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes ensures even cooking and a crispier crust.

Do I need to cover the chicken pot pie while air frying?
No, covering is generally unnecessary. However, if the crust browns too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil to prevent burning.

Can I cook frozen chicken pot pie directly in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken pot pie directly. Increase the cooking time by 5 to 10 minutes and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What is the best temperature to cook chicken pot pie in an air fryer?
The ideal temperature is 350°F (175°C) to ensure the filling heats thoroughly while the crust becomes golden and crisp.

How do I know when the chicken pot pie is fully cooked in the air fryer?
The chicken pot pie is fully cooked when the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the filling is hot and safe to eat.
Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer typically requires a cooking time of approximately 18 to 25 minutes at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). This method ensures the crust becomes golden and crispy while the filling heats thoroughly. It is important to preheat the air fryer and to check the internal temperature of the pot pie, which should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to guarantee food safety.

Adjustments to cooking time may be necessary depending on the size and thickness of the pot pie, as well as the specific air fryer model used. For frozen pot pies, a slightly longer cooking time is generally required, while homemade or smaller portions may cook more quickly. To achieve the best results, it is advisable to monitor the pot pie during cooking and cover the crust with foil if it browns too rapidly.

Overall, using an air fryer to cook chicken pot pie offers a convenient and efficient alternative to conventional oven baking. It delivers a crisp texture and evenly heated filling in less time, making it an excellent choice for quick meals. Proper attention to temperature and timing is essential to ensure the dish is both safe and delicious.

Author Profile

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Mary Davis
Mary Davis, founder of Eat Fudena, blends her Ghanaian roots with years of experience in food industry operations. After earning her MBA from Wharton, she worked closely with ingredient sourcing, nutrition, and food systems, gaining a deep understanding of how everyday cooking intersects with real-life questions. Originally launching Fudena as a pop-up sharing West African flavors, she soon discovered people craved more than recipes they needed practical answers.

Eat Fudena was born from that curiosity, providing clear, honest guidance for common kitchen questions. Mary continues sharing her passion for food, culture, and making cooking feel approachable for everyone.