Start by melting unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and aromatic. This creates a flavorful base that will infuse the entire filling. Toss in chopped carrots and cook for a few more minutes until they start to soften.
Next, add the diced chicken breast to the pan. Stir frequently to cook the meat evenly. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned on all sides. This step ensures every bite of your pot pie is tender and juicy.
Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and mix it well to coat the chicken and vegetables. This helps create a roux that thickens the sauce. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
Now it’s time to season! Add dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Then, toss in frozen peas and let the filling simmer for a few more minutes. The peas will cook quickly and add a pop of color and texture to the dish.
Roll out your thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Use one of your ramekins to cut out circles, leaving a 1/2-inch border around each. These cutouts will sit perfectly on top of each filled ramekin. No extra shaping needed—just press, cut, and place.
Spoon the creamy chicken filling into each ramekin. Place a pastry circle over the top of each one, pressing down lightly around the edges. In a small bowl, whisk the egg with water to make your egg wash. Brush the tops of each pastry to help them bake to a golden, glossy finish.
Place the ramekins in a preheated oven at 200°C. Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving—they’ll be bubbling hot inside!