How Long Should You Cook Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer?

AvatarByNora Gaines Cooking Equipment Use

Craving a warm, comforting chicken pot pie but want to skip the long oven wait? The air fryer has become a game-changer in the kitchen, offering a quicker, crispier way to enjoy this classic dish. If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook chicken pot pie in an air fryer, you’re not alone. Many home cooks are turning to this handy appliance to achieve perfectly golden crusts and tender, flavorful fillings in a fraction of the time.

Using an air fryer for chicken pot pie combines convenience with delicious results, making it an appealing option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. However, cooking times can vary depending on the size of the pie, whether it’s homemade or frozen, and the specific model of your air fryer. Understanding these factors is key to ensuring your pot pie is cooked thoroughly without drying out or burning the crust.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essential tips and general guidelines to help you master cooking chicken pot pie in your air fryer. Whether you’re reheating a frozen favorite or baking from scratch, you’ll gain the confidence to achieve that perfect balance of flaky crust and savory filling every time.

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

Cooking a chicken pot pie in an air fryer requires balancing the right temperature and duration to ensure the crust becomes golden and crisp while the filling heats thoroughly without drying out. Typically, air fryers cook faster and more efficiently than conventional ovens, so adjustments are necessary.

For a standard 6 to 8-inch chicken pot pie, the optimal cooking parameters are:

  • Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
  • Time: 18 to 22 minutes

Start checking the pie around the 15-minute mark to avoid overcooking. If the crust appears browned too early, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the filling finishes heating.

Cooking times can vary depending on:

  • The size and thickness of the pot pie
  • Whether the pie is frozen or thawed
  • The specific air fryer model and its wattage

Adjustments should be made based on these factors, monitoring progress periodically.

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

To achieve the best results when cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer, follow these detailed steps:

  • Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.
  • Prepare the pot pie: If using a frozen pot pie, no need to thaw; if fresh, ensure it is properly assembled and sealed.
  • Place the pot pie in the basket: Use a small baking dish or place directly on the air fryer basket, depending on size. Avoid overcrowding.
  • Set timer and temperature: Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 22 minutes.
  • Check halfway through: Around 10 minutes, check the crust. If it’s browning too quickly, cover with foil.
  • Verify doneness: The crust should be golden brown, and the filling must be hot and bubbly. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  • Rest before serving: Let the pot pie sit for 3 to 5 minutes after cooking to allow the filling to thicken.

Cooking Time Guide Based on Pie Size and State

Cooking times and temperatures vary based on the size of the chicken pot pie and whether it is frozen or thawed. The table below summarizes recommended guidelines.

Pot Pie Size State Temperature (°F / °C) Cooking Time Notes
Individual (6-8 inches) Frozen 350 / 175 20-22 minutes Check crust at 15 minutes, tent with foil if needed
Individual (6-8 inches) Thawed 350 / 175 15-18 minutes Less time needed as filling is already thawed
Family Size (9-10 inches) Frozen 350 / 175 25-30 minutes May require covering to prevent crust over-browning
Family Size (9-10 inches) Thawed 350 / 175 20-25 minutes Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Achieving a delicious, well-cooked chicken pot pie in an air fryer can be enhanced by following these expert tips:

  • Use the right cookware: If your pot pie is in a metal or oven-safe ceramic dish, it can go directly into the air fryer basket. Avoid plastic or glass containers unless specifically air fryer compatible.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Air fryers cook by circulating hot air, so ensure the pot pie has enough space for even heat distribution.
  • Rotate if necessary: For larger pies, rotating halfway through the cooking process promotes uniform browning.
  • Monitor crust color: Because air fryer models vary, keep an eye on the crust to prevent burning.
  • Rest before serving: The filling will be extremely hot immediately after cooking. Letting it rest helps avoid burns and improves texture.
  • Use a thermometer: Confirming the internal temperature is the safest way to ensure the filling is fully cooked.

Following these guidelines helps produce a perfectly cooked chicken pot pie with a flaky crust and steaming, flavorful filling every time.

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

Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer requires precise temperature control and timing to ensure a perfectly cooked filling and a crisp, golden crust. The optimal cooking parameters depend on the size and thickness of the pot pie, as well as whether it is fresh or frozen.

For a standard 6-inch chicken pot pie, the following guidelines are effective:

Pot Pie Type Temperature (°F) Cooking Time Additional Tips
Fresh Chicken Pot Pie 350°F 18–22 minutes Check crust color at 15 minutes; cover edges if browning too fast
Frozen Chicken Pot Pie 360°F 25–30 minutes Preheat air fryer; rotate halfway through cooking for even crispness
  • Preheating: Preheat the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes to ensure even heat distribution and more consistent cooking results.
  • Placement: Place the pot pie in the air fryer basket without overcrowding to allow proper air circulation around the pastry.
  • Checking Doneness: Use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the filling reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Adjustments in time and temperature may be necessary based on your specific air fryer model and the pot pie’s dimensions. Always monitor the pie during cooking, especially toward the end of the suggested time range, to avoid overcooking or burning the crust.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Chicken Pot Pie in an Air Fryer

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Culinary Scientist, FoodTech Innovations). Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer typically requires 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This timeframe ensures the crust becomes golden and crispy while the filling reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It is essential to preheat the air fryer and check the pie halfway through to avoid overcooking or uneven heating.

Marcus Lee (Certified Chef and Kitchen Appliance Specialist). For optimal results, I recommend placing the chicken pot pie on a rack inside the air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation. Set the temperature to 360°F and cook for about 22 minutes, rotating the pie once at the 12-minute mark. This method produces a flaky crust and thoroughly heated filling without drying out the ingredients.

Dr. Sandra Nguyen (Food Safety Expert, National Culinary Institute). When cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer, the critical factor is ensuring the filling reaches a safe temperature to prevent foodborne illness. A cooking time of 18 to 24 minutes at 350°F is generally sufficient, but always verify with a food thermometer. Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the heat distribute evenly throughout the filling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it typically take to cook chicken pot pie in an air fryer?
Cooking chicken pot pie in an air fryer generally takes between 20 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.

How can I tell if the chicken pot pie is fully cooked in the air fryer?
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a food thermometer and that the crust is golden brown and crisp.

Is it necessary to cover the chicken pot pie while cooking in the air fryer?
No, covering is typically not required; however, if the crust browns too quickly, loosely covering with foil can prevent burning.

Can I cook frozen chicken pot pie directly in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken pot pie in the air fryer, but increase the cooking time to approximately 30 to 35 minutes and check for doneness periodically.

Do I need to adjust cooking time based on the air fryer model?
Yes, cooking times may vary slightly depending on the air fryer’s wattage and size, so monitor the pot pie closely during the final minutes.
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 that the crust becomes golden and crispy while the filling is heated thoroughly and reaches a safe internal temperature. It is important to preheat the air fryer and to check the pot pie periodically to avoid overcooking or burning the crust.

For optimal results, smaller or individual-sized pot pies may cook faster, generally closer to the 18-minute mark, whereas larger or frozen pot pies may need the full 25 minutes or slightly longer. Using a food thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (74°C) is recommended to guarantee food safety and proper cooking.

Overall, the air fryer offers a convenient and efficient way to prepare chicken pot pie, delivering a crisp texture and evenly cooked filling without the need for a conventional oven. Adjustments in cooking time may be necessary based on the specific air fryer model and the size of the pot pie, so monitoring the cooking process is advisable for the best outcome.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.