How to Cook Costco Chicken Pot Pie

The Kirkland Signature Chicken Pot Pie is a ready-to-bake comfort food sold in the Costco deli section.

It weighs around 5 to 5.5 pounds and feeds 6 to 8 people easily.

The filling contains 1.5 pounds of rotisserie chicken breast meat, peas, carrots, and a creamy gravy sauce. All wrapped in flaky pie crust.

Most people pick this up for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Takes about 60 to 90 minutes in the oven with minimal hands-on work.

This guide covers 3 cooking methods with exact temperatures and timing.

Product Details

Product: Kirkland Signature Chicken Pot Pie

Type: Fresh, unbaked (crust is raw, filling is pre-cooked)

Package Size: 5 to 5.5 lbs (6-8 servings)

Price: $3.99 to $4.99 per pound at Costco (Updated January 2025)

Storage: Refrigerate until best-by date or freeze up to 3 months

Calories per Serving: 390 calories per 5 oz serving (1/8 of pie)

Main Ingredients: Rotisserie chicken breast, peas, carrots, enriched flour, modified corn starch, cream, chicken broth

Item Number: 16382

Cooking Methods Comparison

Recommended Method: Conventional oven at 375 degrees F for golden crust and bubbling filling throughout.

Method 1: Conventional Oven (Recommended)

This produces a golden brown crust with fully heated creamy filling.

Total time runs 60 to 90 minutes depending on your oven. Feeds the whole family in one go.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare the Pot Pie?

Remove all plastic packaging before baking. The pie comes in an aluminum pan that goes straight into the oven.

Instructions:

1. Take off the plastic lid and plastic base completely
2. Leave the pot pie in its metal tin
3. Place the pie on a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips
4. Cover the entire top loosely with aluminum foil

Equipment: Rimmed baking sheet (at least 12 inches), aluminum foil, meat thermometer

Step 2: What Temperature and Time Do You Use?

Bake at 375 degrees F. The foil prevents the crust from burning before the center heats through.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C)
2. Place covered pie on middle or lower-middle rack
3. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes with foil on

Temperature: 375 degrees F

Time: 50-60 minutes covered, plus 5-10 minutes uncovered

Step 3: When Do You Remove the Foil?

After the initial baking time, take off the foil so the crust can brown properly.

Instructions:

1. At the 50-minute mark, carefully remove aluminum foil
2. Continue baking uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes
3. Watch for the crust turning golden brown

Checkpoint: At 50 minutes, crust should be pale but filling should start bubbling at edges

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center of the pie. The filling should register 165 degrees F minimum.

Instructions:

1. Insert thermometer into center of pie, through crust into filling
2. Check that internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C)
3. Look for bubbling gravy around edges and golden crust
4. Let rest 10 to 15 minutes before cutting

Target Temperature: 165 degrees F internal

Visual Indicator: Golden brown crust with steam rising, bubbling filling visible at edges

Method 2: Convection Oven

Convection ovens circulate hot air for faster, more even cooking.

Reduces total cook time by about 15 to 20 minutes compared to conventional.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare for Convection?

Same prep as conventional. Remove all plastic, keep pie in aluminum tin.

Instructions:

1. Remove plastic lid and base
2. Place on rimmed baking sheet
3. Cover loosely with foil (more important here since convection browns faster)

Equipment: Rimmed baking sheet, aluminum foil, meat thermometer

Step 2: What Temperature and Time for Convection?

Lower the temperature by 25 degrees compared to conventional settings.

Instructions:

1. Preheat convection oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)
2. Bake covered for 40 to 50 minutes
3. Position on middle rack for best airflow

Temperature: 350 degrees F (convection setting)

Time: 40-50 minutes covered, plus 5-10 minutes uncovered

Step 3: When Do You Remove the Foil?

Check earlier than conventional since convection browns faster.

Instructions:

1. Remove foil at the 40-minute mark
2. Check crust color every 2 to 3 minutes
3. Continue until golden brown (5-10 more minutes)

Checkpoint: At 40 minutes, check if filling is bubbling

Step 4: How Do You Know When It’s Done?

Same indicators as conventional. Internal temp of 165 degrees F is non-negotiable.

Instructions:

1. Check internal temperature at center
2. Filling should be bubbling and steaming
3. Rest for 10 minutes before serving

Target Temperature: 165 degrees F

Visual Indicator: Crispy golden crust, visibly bubbling gravy

Method 3: Reheating Leftover Slices

The full Kirkland pot pie is too large for most air fryers (11 inches diameter).

But air fryer works great for reheating cooked slices. Keeps the crust from getting soggy.

Step 1: How Do You Prepare Leftover Slices?

Cut your leftovers into individual portions. Room temperature slices reheat more evenly.

Instructions:

1. Remove leftover slice from refrigerator
2. Let sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes
3. Place in air fryer basket or on small aluminum pan

Equipment: Air fryer, small foil pan (optional)

Step 2: What Temperature for Reheating?

Higher heat for shorter time keeps the crust crispy.

Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 350 to 400 degrees F
2. Place slice in basket (single layer)
3. Heat for 8 to 12 minutes

Temperature: 350-400 degrees F

Time: 8-12 minutes for refrigerated slices

Step 3: How Do You Prevent Burning?

Check halfway through. Cover with foil if crust is browning too fast.

Instructions:

1. Check at 5-minute mark
2. If edges are getting dark, tent with small piece of foil
3. Continue until filling is hot throughout

Checkpoint: At 5 minutes, check crust color

Step 4: When Are Reheated Slices Ready?

The filling should be steaming hot when you cut into it.

Instructions:

1. Internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F
2. Crust should be crispy, not soggy
3. Let cool 2 to 3 minutes before eating (filling gets very hot)

Target Temperature: 165 degrees F

Visual Indicator: Steam rising when cut open

Microwave Reheating (Quick Method)

Faster but crust will be softer. Good for when you just want something warm fast.

1. Place slice on microwave-safe plate
2. Cover with paper towel
3. Heat 1.5 to 2 minutes on high
4. Check and add 30 seconds if needed

Safety and Quality Indicators

Food Safety

• Internal Temperature: 165 degrees F minimum throughout
• Steam Check: Should release steam when cut into center
• Thawing: Fresh deli pot pie does not need thawing. If frozen, bake from frozen (add 15-20 minutes)

Quality Indicators (Done Properly)

• Color: Golden brown top crust, not pale or dark brown
• Texture: Flaky top crust, denser bottom crust that holds the filling
• Temperature: Hot throughout, above 165 degrees F
• Appearance: Bubbling gravy visible at edges, steam rising

Signs of Overcooking

• Dark brown or blackened crust edges
• Dry chicken pieces that fall apart
• Burnt smell or bitter taste from crust
• Gravy has thickened to paste consistency

Serving Suggestions

Portion Size: One-eighth of pie per serving (approximately 5 oz, about 1 cup)

Serving Ideas

• Serve as a complete meal since it contains protein, vegetables, and carbs
• Add a simple green salad with vinaigrette for contrast
• Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans for extra vegetables

Pairing Recommendations

• Light sides work best: mixed greens, roasted asparagus, Costco frozen vegetables
• Avoid heavy starches like Costco mashed potatoes since the pie already has crust
• Apple cider, white wine, or sparkling water complements the rich filling

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Storage

• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Store in airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap
• Consume within 4 days
• Can freeze cooked slices for up to 3 months

Reheating Instructions

• Air Fryer: 8-12 minutes at 350-400 degrees F
• Oven: 15-20 minutes at 350 degrees F
• Microwave: 1.5-2 minutes on high (crust will soften)
• Target Temperature: 165 degrees F

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Issue: Burnt crust but cold center

Cause: Oven too hot or foil not used during initial bake

Solution: Always cover with foil for first 50 minutes. Lower temperature to 350 degrees F if your oven runs hot.

Issue: Soggy bottom crust

Cause: Pie sitting in drippings or oven rack positioned too low

Solution: Place on middle rack. Make sure baking sheet has raised edges to keep pie elevated from any pooled liquid.

Issue: Filling not hot throughout

Cause: Insufficient baking time or oven not fully preheated

Solution: Always use a meat thermometer. Add 10-15 minutes if needed. Make sure oven is fully preheated before putting pie in.

Issue: Crust too pale after baking time

Cause: Foil left on too long

Solution: Remove foil 10 minutes earlier. For extra browning, brush crust with beaten egg before baking.

Issue: Too salty

Cause: This is a common complaint with the Kirkland pot pie

Solution: Serve with unseasoned sides. Pair with fresh vegetables or plain salad to balance sodium intake.

Product Variations and Related Items

Similar Costco Products

• Costco Shepherd’s Pie – beef-based with mashed potato topping, similar size and price
• Marie Callender’s Frozen Pot Pies (8-pack in freezer section) – smaller 10 oz individual portions, different cooking instructions
• Costco stuffed chicken breast – another comfort food option with different prep

Cooking Time Adjustments

Frozen pot pie (if you froze the fresh one): Add 15-20 minutes to covered baking time

Marie Callender’s frozen pot pies (10 oz): 400 degrees F for 50 minutes in oven, or 25 minutes in air fryer at 350 degrees F

Other Costco Comfort Foods

If you enjoy easy prepared meals from Costco, check out these similar items:

• Costco lasagna for Italian comfort food
• Costco mac and cheese as a creamy side dish
• Costco ravioli lasagna for a twist on pasta
• Costco meatloaf for another hearty dinner option

FAQ on How To Cook Costco Chicken Pot Pie

How long do you cook Costco chicken pot pie?

Bake the Kirkland Signature pot pie for 60 to 90 minutes total at 375 degrees F.

Keep it covered with foil for the first 50-60 minutes. Then remove foil and bake 5-10 more minutes until golden brown.

What temperature do you bake Costco chicken pot pie?

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for conventional ovens.

For convection ovens, lower to 350 degrees F. The cooking time stays similar but check earlier since convection browns faster.

Do you need to thaw Costco chicken pot pie before baking?

The fresh deli pot pie does not need thawing. It comes refrigerated, not frozen.

If you froze it at home, bake directly from frozen. Just add 15-20 extra minutes to the covered baking time.

Can you cook Costco chicken pot pie in an air fryer?

No. The full Kirkland pot pie measures 11 inches and won’t fit most air fryers.

However, you can reheat leftover slices in an air fryer at 350-400 degrees F for 8-12 minutes. Works great for crispy crust.

How do you know when Costco chicken pot pie is done?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the center. Internal temperature must reach 165 degrees F minimum.

Visual signs include golden brown crust, bubbling filling at the edges, and steam rising when cut.

Should you cover Costco chicken pot pie with foil while baking?

Yes. Cover loosely with aluminum foil for the first 50-60 minutes of baking.

This prevents the crust from burning before the center heats through. Remove foil for the last 5-10 minutes to brown.

Can you microwave Costco chicken pot pie?

Not the whole pie. The aluminum pan is not microwave safe, and microwaves cannot produce a crispy golden crust.

You can microwave cooked leftover slices for 1.5-2 minutes on high. The crust will be softer though.

How many servings are in a Costco chicken pot pie?

The Kirkland pot pie weighs 5-5.5 pounds and serves 6 to 8 people.

One serving is about one-eighth of the pie (5 oz). Each portion contains 390 calories and 15 grams of protein.

How do you store leftover Costco chicken pot pie?

Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container.

Leftovers stay good for 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze cooked slices for up to 3 months.

Why is my Costco chicken pot pie crust burnt but center cold?

You probably skipped the foil or your oven runs hot.

Always cover with aluminum foil for the first 50 minutes. If your oven tends to overbake, lower temperature to 350 degrees F and add baking time.

Conclusion

Now you know how to cook Costco chicken pot pie perfectly every time.

The process is simple. Preheat to 375 degrees F, cover with foil, bake for about an hour, then let that golden brown crust develop.

Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. That 165 degrees F reading is your signal that the bubbling filling is safe to eat.

Let it rest before serving. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen.

This Kirkland Signature comfort food delivers a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal effort.