If you're a fan of comfort food, you've probably had a chicken pot pie before. This classic dish consists of a flaky pastry crust filled with savory chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce. One serving of a 198 g chicken pot pie contains approximately 370 calories.
While chicken pot pie is undeniably delicious, it's also important to consider its nutritional information. Let's take a closer look at the carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, cholesterol, vitamins, and minerals present in this dish.
Whether you're looking to incorporate more protein into your diet or trying to watch your sodium intake, understanding the nutritional benefits and drawbacks of chicken pot pie can help you make informed choices about your meals.
Calories per serving of Chicken Pot Pie
As previously mentioned, one serving of a 198 g chicken pot pie contains approximately 370 calories. This can vary slightly depending on the recipe or brand you choose, but it's a good estimate to keep in mind when planning your meals. While 370 calories may seem like a lot, it's important to note that chicken pot pie can be quite filling thanks to its mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. If you're watching your calorie intake, you may want to consider enjoying a smaller portion or pairing your chicken pot pie with a side salad or vegetables. Keep in mind that everyone's nutritional needs are different, so make sure to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your diet.
Carbohydrates in Chicken Pot Pie
A serving of chicken pot pie also contains around 37 grams of carbohydrates. This mostly comes from the pastry crust and the starchy vegetables like potatoes and peas that are often included in the filling. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for your body, but it's important to aim for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables rather than simple carbohydrates like sugar and refined flour whenever possible. Consider pairing your chicken pot pie with a quinoa salad or roasted vegetables to balance out your meal's carbohydrate content.
Protein content of Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie can be a great source of protein, with approximately 17 grams per serving. This mostly comes from the chicken and any other protein sources like beans or tofu that may be included in the filling. Protein is an essential nutrient that helps build and repair tissues, and it can also help keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal. Consider pairing your chicken pot pie with a protein-rich side dish like quinoa, lentils, or roasted nuts and seeds.
Fat content of Chicken Pot Pie
One serving of chicken pot pie contains around 20 grams of fat. Some of this comes from the protein sources like chicken or beans, while the majority comes from the pastry crust and the cream-based sauce. While fat is an important part of a healthy diet, too much of it can increase your risk of health issues like heart disease and obesity. Consider enjoying smaller portions of chicken pot pie or choosing lighter versions made with skinless chicken, reduced-fat cream, or a vegetable-based crust.
Sodium in Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie can be quite high in sodium, with one serving containing around 720 milligrams. This mostly comes from the salt used in the pastry crust and the sauce. Too much sodium can increase your risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. To reduce your sodium intake, consider making your own chicken pot pie with low-sodium chicken broth and adding flavor with herbs and spices instead of salt. You can also pair your chicken pot pie with a low-sodium side dish like steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad.
Cholesterol in Chicken Pot Pie
One serving of chicken pot pie contains around 70 milligrams of cholesterol. This mostly comes from the cream-based sauce and any butter or margarine used in the pastry crust. While cholesterol is important for building cells and producing hormones, too much of it can increase your risk of heart disease. Consider choosing lighter versions of chicken pot pie made with reduced-fat cream or a vegetable-based crust.
Vitamins present in Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie can be a good source of certain vitamins, depending on the ingredients used. For example, a chicken pot pie that includes carrots and peas can be rich in vitamin A, while one that includes mushrooms can be rich in vitamin D. Vitamins are essential nutrients that help your body function properly, from supporting your immune system to aiding in cell growth and repair. Consider adding a variety of vegetables to your chicken pot pie to boost its vitamin content.
Minerals present in Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken pot pie can also be a good source of certain minerals, like iron and magnesium. These minerals are important for maintaining strong bones, supporting your immune system, and aiding in muscle function and relaxation. Consider including sources of iron like chicken, beans, and leafy greens in your chicken pot pie, and consider adding magnesium-rich ingredients like spinach, pumpkin seeds, and almonds to boost its mineral content.
Serving size for Chicken Pot Pie
The serving size for chicken pot pie is typically one pie or 198 grams. While it can be tempting to eat the entire pie, keep in mind that this can contribute a significant amount of calories, carbohydrates, fat, sodium, and cholesterol to your diet. Consider dividing the pie into smaller portions or pairing it with other low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods to balance out your meal. You might also consider making your own chicken pot pie and freezing individual servings for later use.
Health benefits of Chicken Pot Pie
While chicken pot pie may not be the healthiest food out there, it can still provide some benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For example, the chicken and vegetables included in the pie can be rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, while the carbohydrates from the pastry crust can provide energy for your body. Additionally, enjoying comfort foods like chicken pot pie in moderation can help support your mental and emotional health and provide a sense of satisfaction and comfort.
Chicken pot pie is a classic dish that can provide a comforting and satisfying meal when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pot Pie
1. What are the ingredients in a chicken pot pie?
A typical chicken pot pie includes chicken, vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and potatoes), a creamy sauce, and a pastry crust.
2. How many calories are in a chicken pot pie?
A 198-gram serving of chicken pot pie contains 370 calories.
3. Can I freeze chicken pot pie?
Yes, chicken pot pie can be frozen for later consumption. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, place it in the oven until heated through.
4. How long does it take to cook a chicken pot pie?
The cooking time for a chicken pot pie will depend on the instructions on the package or recipe that you are using. Typically, it takes about an hour to cook a frozen chicken pot pie and 30-40 minutes to cook a fresh chicken pot pie.
5. Can I make a vegetarian version of chicken pot pie?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegetarian version of chicken pot pie by using vegetable broth and omitting the chicken. You can also substitute the vegetables with your favorite veggies, such as mushrooms or broccoli.