Magical Pumpkin Chicken Pot Pies to Celebrate Halloween & Samhain

As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, the magic of fall invites us to gather and celebrate, especially at Halloween. This year, we are elevating the traditional chicken pot pie, Something Classic's most beloved dish at Harris Teeter for over twenty years, by preparing it in a pumpkin! This delightful twist brings seasonal flavors to your table and creates a stunning centerpiece to celebrate the season. On a few special Halloween years, I made special wild mushroom chicken pies in small pumpkins and they sold like an open bowl of dark chocolate Halloween candy you leave on your porch after you've turned in for the evening and want to ward off evil spells and toilet paper.

A Taste of Tradition: Something Classic's Premier on The Food Network

Our chicken pot pie carries a legacy rich in family tradition. It was featured on the Food Network show "Food Finds," showcasing my grandmother's cherished pot pie recipe. The dish includes pulled chicken, fresh leeks, haricots verts, baby potatoes, white wine, and fragrant rosemary—a comforting combination that was gifted to many of your neighbors, friends with new babies and just an easy, special dinner.

For two years, the Food Finds episode aired every few weeks nationally without any notice. Our phones at Something Classic buzzed with stories from viewers sharing memories of their family recipes as well as purchase our pies. We received overwhelming support, and shipments of our pies soared to thousands across the nation. This connection through food confirmed my understanding that nostalgia and food were tied together whether we know it our not. Recipes are handed down from our grandmothers and mothers with stories and family histories creating a lasting connection to our past and ancestors.

Celebrating Samhain: A Time for Reflection and Rebirth

As we prepare our fall chicken pot pie, we also honor Samhain—the good witches' New Year. Celebrated from October 31 to November 1, it marks the transition from the harvest season into the long, cold months ahead. Samhain is a time for reflection, honoring ancestors, and recognizing life's cycles.

This year, celebrate Samhain with a dish that captures the season's essence. Our pumpkin pot pie not only tempts the taste buds, but it also becomes a centerpiece for converstation of the stories and histories of our loved ones who are no longer with us. This is similar to the day of the dead celebration in the Mexican culture. I hope that my kids and future grandkids will remember me one day as they enjoy my pumpkin-filled chicken pot pie on Halloween.

The Enchanting Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie in a Pumpkin

📜 Ingredients of Enchantment:

• 🎃 1 Pumpkin Vessel (medium, hollowed)

• 🐓 2 cups Pulled Chicken (tender of spirit)

• 🌿 1 cup Leeks, sliced (green whisper charms)

• 🥕 1 cup Heirloom Carrots, diced (sun-gold talismans)

• 🥒 1 cup baby Zucchini, sliced (emerald essence)

• ⚖️ touch of cream

• 🍷 1 cup White Wine/chicken stock (elixir of melding)

• 🌱 2 sprigs fresh Rosemary, (herb of memory & protection)

• 🥓 1 cup Pancetta, diced (crispy binding)

• 🫒 2 tbsp Olive Oil (slippery conduit)

• ⚖️ Salt & Pepper to taste (balancing elements)

• 🥧 1 Pie Crust, cut in strips (covering sigil)

  
  

  Ritual of Creation:

Summon the Pumpkin Vessel Slice the top, banish seeds, and reserve the shell.

“Hollow heart, hold my feast,From your shell, magic released.”

Awaken the Vegetables Heat olive oil in a pan. Add leeks, carrots, zucchini, and potatoes. “Root and green, awaken and mingle,Your essence blend, your colors tingle.”

Bind the Meats Add pulled chicken and pancetta. Stir until warmed and mingled. Add a spoonful of flour.

“Flesh of fowl, spirit of pork,Together rise, together work.”

Pour the Elixir Add white wine/chicken stock/touch of cream and season with rosemary, salt, and pepper.

“Wine of the vine, herb of the land,Flavor unite at my command.”

Infuse the Pumpkin Vessel Spoon mixture into the pumpkin.

“Heart of pumpkin, hold this delight,Safe and warm through day and night.”

Seal the Spell Cover with pie crust, piercing slits for energy to escape or make a lattice talisman

“Cover and crown, my spell complete,Golden crust, a magic treat.”

Conjure the Oven’s Fire Bake at 400°F (190°C) for 45–60 min.

“Heat and time, transmute this blend,From humble ingredients, a feast ascend.”

Release & Feast Cool slightly, serve with wine or meade, and savor.

“Bless this meal, nourish and delight,Autumn’s bounty, pure and bright.”

A Dash of Magic: The Special Spell Twist

To make your pot pie even more enchanting, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of sage while cooking. These herbs elevate the flavor and enhance the fall essence of your dish. Remember, cooking is about pouring love—and a bit of magic—into every meal.

Order Your Own Enchanted Pie

If the kitchen feels a bit daunting, don’t worry! You can order one of our signature chicken pot pies directly from our website. Each pie is made with care, ensuring that you can experience the flavors of fall without the hassle. Order your Chicken Pot Pie Here - The Original (not in the pumpkin)

Watch Jill in Action

Interested in learning how to create this delightful dish? Check out our YouTube video Here where Jill Marcus, our owner and culinary storyteller, showcases how to make this enchanting chicken pot pie.

Celebrate the Spirit of Fall

As we gather around the table this fall, let's cherish family, embrace tradition, and revel in the magic of the season. Our chicken pot pie in a pumpkin is not just a meal; it’s a joyful celebration of life, love, and the changing seasons.

Whether you're preparing this dish for your family or sharing it with friends, may your pot pie bring laughter, memories, and a touch of witchy charm to your autumn gatherings. Happy Samhain!