Mini Chicken Pot Pies

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and peas. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic powder and thyme, if using, and season with salt and pepper.

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for about 1 minute to make a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly, making sure there are no lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.

Add the heavy cream and shredded chicken to the mixture, and stir to combine. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the filling is creamy and heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove from heat and set aside.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crusts
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Unroll the pie crusts and use a round cookie cutter, a glass, or a cup to cut out circles that are slightly larger than the muffin tin cups (about 4-5 inches in diameter). You’ll need 12 rounds in total—one for the bottom of each mini pie. Press each round of dough into the bottom of the muffin tin, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.

#### Step 3: Fill the Mini Pot Pies
Spoon the chicken filling into each pie crust, dividing it evenly among the 12 muffin cups. Be generous with the filling, as it will bake down slightly.

#### Step 4: Add the Top Crust
Using the remaining pie crust, cut out smaller rounds to place over the top of each mini pot pie. Gently press the edges of the top crusts down around the sides to seal the pies. If you prefer, you can also cut the dough into strips and create a lattice crust for a fun presentation!

If you’d like a golden, glossy finish, brush the top of each pie with a beaten egg (egg wash). This will give the crust a beautiful, shiny appearance when baked.

#### Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You may want to place a baking sheet underneath the muffin tin to catch any potential drips.

#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the mini chicken pot pies are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These pies are perfect on their own, or you can pair them with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

### Tips for the Perfect Mini Chicken Pot Pies:
– **Chicken:** Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or cook your own chicken breasts or thighs.
– **Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or green beans for extra flavor and texture.
– **Crust:** You can use homemade pie crust if you prefer, but store-bought refrigerated pie crusts make this recipe much quicker and easier.
– **Freezing:** These mini pot pies freeze beautifully! After assembling them, cover them with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze them. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them into the oven (no need to thaw), but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

### Why You’ll Love These Mini Chicken Pot Pies:
– **Portion-Controlled:** These mini pies are perfect for individual servings, so everyone gets their own personal pot pie without the need to slice a larger one.
– **Comforting and Hearty:** With creamy chicken, tender vegetables, and a flaky crust, these mini pot pies have all the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie in a more manageable, fun format.
– **Great for Meal Prep:** Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, these mini pies are easy to store and reheat, making them perfect for busy nights or packed lunches.

### Conclusion:
Mini Chicken Pot Pies are a fun, delicious, and convenient twist on the classic comfort food. With a creamy filling, tender chicken, and a flaky, buttery crust, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for family dinners, parties, or any time you want something warm and satisfying. Serve these mini pies with a smile and enjoy the delicious, homey flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more!