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Delicious Brazilian Chicken Pot Pie

By: Barbara Updated on Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:13:27 GMT Hearty Mains
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Barbara, recipe developer and home cook at Graceful Flavors
By Barbara

Hi, I'm Barbara, the recipe developer and home cook behind Graceful Flavors. I share approachable recipes with clear steps, familiar ingredients, and delicious results for real everyday kitchens.

Updated on Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:13:27 GMT

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A close up of a chicken pot pie. Pin it
A close up of a chicken pot pie.

This Brazilian chicken pot pie transforms a simple family meal into a show-stopping centerpiece. The combination of tender shredded chicken, colorful vegetables, and creamy sauce wrapped in buttery pastry creates the perfect comfort food with a South American twist. While it takes some time to prepare, the results are well worth the effort.

I first made this empadão during a Brazilian themed dinner party, and it quickly became my signature dish for gatherings. The combination of buttery crust and savory filling never fails to impress guests, who always ask for the recipe.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

A pastry with meat and vegetables on a plate.
A pastry with meat and vegetables on a plate.

The hearts of palm in this recipe hold a special place in my cooking journey. During a trip to Brazil, I watched a local grandmother prepare this exact dish, carefully chopping these tender palm shoots while explaining how they grow wild in the rainforest. Now whenever I add them to my empadão, I remember her skilled hands and generous spirit.

Make Ahead Options

A chicken pot pie on a plate.
A chicken pot pie on a plate.

Ingredient Substitutions

Cultural Background

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the filling made of?

The filling includes shredded chicken, vegetables like olives, corn, peas, and hearts of palm, combined with tomato sauce and spices.

Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, the filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated until ready to use.

What can I use instead of hearts of palm?

If hearts of palm are unavailable, you can substitute with chopped artichokes or omit them altogether.

How do I achieve a flakier crust?

For a flakier texture, consider replacing half of the butter with shortening.

What side dishes pair well with this pie?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables are great accompaniments to this pie.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You can create a vegetarian version by using vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead of chicken—pair with a vegetable broth for flavor.

4.70 from 175 votes

Brazilian Chicken Pot Pie Delight

Prep Time:
55 Minutes
Cook Time:
30 Minutes
Total Time:
85 Minutes
Servings:
10
A close up of a chicken pot pie.
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Savoury Brazilian pot pie with chicken & veggies.

Ingredients

  • Chicken Filling

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 pounds chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 1/2 cup chopped green olives
  • 1 cup corn (optional)
  • 1 cup green peas (optional)
  • 1 cup hearts of palm, chopped (optional)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • A couple dashes of hot sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon flour dissolved in 1/3 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Crust

  • 5 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1/4 to 1/2 cup cold water
  • 3 sticks butter (12 oz), cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten (for brushing)

Instructions

1.

1. Prepare the Filling: Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent, about 2 minutes.

2.

2. Cook the Vegetables: Add tomatoes and cook until softened, 2-3 minutes.

3.

3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in shredded chicken, olives, corn, peas, hearts of palm, tomato sauce, and hot sauce.

4.

4. Simmer the Mixture: Add chicken broth and the flour/milk mixture. Simmer over medium-low heat, stirring often, until the mixture thickens and most of the liquid is gone (about 10 minutes).

5.

5. Add Parsley: Stir in parsley, taste, and season with salt and pepper. Let cool completely.

6.

6. Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Stir in egg yolks.

7.

7. Add Butter: Add butter and work it in with your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

8.

8. Add Water: Gradually add water (you may not need all), working until the dough just comes together. Wrap and chill for 20 minutes.

9.

9. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

10.

10. Roll Out Dough: Roll out ⅔ of the dough into a 12-inch round and press into a 9-inch springform pan, including up the sides. Prick with a fork.

11.

11. Fill the Pie: Fill with the cooled chicken mixture, smoothing the top.

12.

12. Cover the Pie: Roll out the remaining dough and cover the pie. Seal and tuck the edges, then cut two slits in the center to let steam escape.

13.

13. Brush the Crust: Brush with the beaten egg yolk.

14.

14. Bake: Bake for 25–35 minutes or until golden brown and hot throughout.

15.

15. Cool and Serve: Let rest slightly before serving.

Notes

  1. You can make the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it.
  2. The crust can be made with half butter and half shortening for a slightly flakier texture.
  3. Serve with a simple green salad for a full meal.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy.
  • Contains gluten.
  • Contains eggs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 510
  • Total Fat: 31 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 35 g
  • Protein: 26 g