The Best Chicken Pie Recipe You'll Ever Make!

Let me set the scene: you just made what might be the tastiest chicken pie you've ever eaten. And as soon as you take it out of the oven, the golden top crackles with the promise of flaky perfection. And the smell? It's like a warm hug in pie form. As soon as it hits the table, everyone gathers around with their mouths open and their eyes wide.

This is the best chicken pie recipe you'll ever find. That pie is so full of taste and goodness that all the other chicken pies look like they're not even close. The trick is having the right amount of soft chicken, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a buttery, crunchy crust!

So, grab your tools and get ready to make a pie that everyone will want more of—maybe even higher than that. Remember that the only thing better than the pie is the sigh of contentment that comes after each delicious bite. Now, let's get into it!

The Health Benefits of Chicken Pie

Lean Protein Powerhouse

At the heart of any chicken pie is chicken breast, a prime source of lean protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy. Incorporating chicken into your diet helps maintain muscle mass and supports metabolic health. Plus, it’s lower in fat compared to red meats, making it a heart-healthy choice.

Nutrient-Rich Vegetables

Chicken pie often includes vegetables like carrots, onions, and leeks. These veggies add more than just flavor; they boost the nutritional value of your pie:

• Carrots Rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, carrots support vision health and a strong immune system.
• Onions Packed with antioxidants and compounds like quercetin, onions can help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
• Leeks These offer a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, and contribute to digestive health with their prebiotic fibers.

Essential Minerals

The addition of ingredients like chicken broth and various herbs not only enhances flavor but also adds to the mineral content of your pie. Broth provides important minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and muscle function.

Balanced Fat Content

While the buttery crust does add fat, using moderate amounts of high-quality fats (like olive oil and butter) can be part of a healthy diet. Olive oil, in particular, contains monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health. The key is to balance your fat intake and choose healthier options when possible.

Customizable Nutrition

One of the best things about chicken pie is how adaptable it is to fit various dietary needs. You can use whole wheat flour for the crust to add fiber or substitute in healthier fats and low-sodium options for the broth. Adding more vegetables or even a side salad can further boost the nutritional profile.

Comforting and Satisfying

Aside from its nutritional benefits, chicken pie is incredibly filling. Its combination of protein, fiber (from vegetables), and healthy fats helps keep you satisfied longer, which can aid in portion control and prevent overeating.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 6 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 leek, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, diced small
• 1 carrot, cut into small cubes
• 3 pounds chicken breast, cut into cubes or strips
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons plain flour
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dough:

• 500 g plain flour
• 250 g cold butter
• 100 ml cold water
• 1 beaten egg

How to Make the Best Chicken Pie?

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by heating 6 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over low heat. Add the thinly sliced leek, diced onion, and small cubes of carrot. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they start to soften, which should take about 10 minutes. The key here is to cook them slowly so they release their natural sweetness and flavor.

Next, introduce the chicken to the pan. Sprinkle in the dried thyme and bay leaves, and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink, ensuring that it’s evenly browned for that delicious depth of flavor.

Now, sprinkle 3 tablespoons of plain flour over the mixture. Stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables. Let this cook for another 3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Then pour in 1/2 cup of white wine. Allow it to boil for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol and reduce slightly.

Add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir continuously and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. The sauce should thicken up and coat the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Once everything is cooked and thickened the way you like it, remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool completely. This step ensures that the filling won’t make the crust soggy when baked.

Step 2: Make the Dough

While the filling cools, you can prepare the dough. In a large bowl, combine 500 g of plain flour with a pinch of salt. Cut 250 g of cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This process creates those lovely, flaky layers in your crust.

Gradually pour in 100 ml of cold water, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Use your hands to knead it gently until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two portions: 1/3 for the top crust and 2/3 for the base. Flatten each portion into discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill them in the refrigerator while you preheat your oven.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a pie dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger portion of dough (2/3) into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish with a little extra around the edges. Transfer this rolled dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the sides and trimming any overhang.

Spoon the cooled filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly. Roll out the remaining dough (1/3) to cover the pie. Carefully place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Make a small slit in the center to allow steam to escape.

Bake the pie in your preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The aroma of the pie baking will make your kitchen smell incredible, and you might find it hard to wait for it to cool!

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Once the pie is golden and done, please remove it from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your chicken pie warm, with a side of fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Zulay's Final Thought

That's it! You now have the best chicken pie recipe ever! You can cozy up and enjoy the moment with this chicken pie. It has a buttery, flaky shell and a creamy, savory filling. It's made with simple, hearty foods that bring out the best in old-fashioned home cooking.

That's not all you're getting when you eat this pie—you're getting the heart of good old-fashioned comfort. The flavors are deep, and the crust is just the right amount of crispy. Let's be honest: you're not the only one who goes back for seconds (or thirds).

If you serve this pie at a family get-together, a special event, or just as a treat during the week, remember that you're not just making a meal; you're making a moment. An extra serving of creamy mashed potatoes or a side of green vegetables might be just what you need to make the meal full.

Enjoy every bite, and don't forget that this pie maybe your kitchen's best-kept secret! Have fun baking!

Let Us Know What You Think!

We’d love to hear your thoughts on this chicken pie recipe! Did you put your own spin on it, or did you follow the recipe to the letter? Leave a comment below sharing your experience or any tips you might have. And if you enjoyed this recipe, let us know what other dishes you'd like to see next.

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Know Someone Who Would Love This Recipe?

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