Are you in the mood for a comforting and hearty dish? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll walk you through a step-by-step recipe to make a delicious homemade chicken pie. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a buttery golden crust, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Introduction
There's something special about a homemade pie, and a chicken pie is no exception. Filled with a creamy chicken and vegetable mixture, encased in a flaky crust, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. By following this recipe, you'll learn how to create a chicken pie from scratch, using fresh ingredients and simple techniques.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need:
For the Filling: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed1 tablespoon olive oil1 onion, diced2 carrots, peeled and diced2 celery stalks, diced1 cup frozen peas3 cloves of garlic, minced3 tablespoons all-purpose flour1 cup chicken broth1 cup milk1 teaspoon dried thymeSalt and pepper to tasteFor the Crust:2 ½ cups all-purpose flour1 teaspoon salt1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed6-8 tablespoons ice water
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let's move on to the preparation.
Preparing the Filling
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the chicken broth and milk to the skillet, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
Add the cooked and cubed chicken, frozen peas, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.
Making the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter.
Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape them into discs. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling and Baking the Pie
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out one disc of the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it's large enough to cover the bottom of your pie dish.
Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish and press it gently against the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
Pour the chicken filling into the prepared pie crust.
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it on top of the filling. Pinch the edges of the crust together to seal the pie. You can also use a fork to create a decorative pattern around the edges.
Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You've successfully prepared a delicious homemade chicken pie from scratch. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a buttery crust creates a comforting and satisfying dish that will surely impress your loved ones. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Now it's time to enjoy your creation and savor each bite of this delightful chicken pie. Happy cooking!
FAQ
1. Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of making it from scratch?
Absolutely! If you're short on time or prefer the convenience, you can use store-bought pie crust instead of making it yourself. Just follow the package instructions for baking times and temperatures.
2. Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Of course! This recipe serves as a great base, and you can customize it to your liking. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or bell peppers to the filling to addmore variety and flavors.
3. Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time. After assembling the pie, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, remove the plastic wrap, and bake according to the recipe instructions.
4. Can I freeze the chicken pie?
Absolutely! Chicken pie freezes well, making it a convenient option for future meals. After baking the pie and allowing it to cool completely, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Summary
In this blog post, we shared a wonderful recipe for homemade chicken pie. From preparing the flavorful filling to making the flaky crust, we covered each step in detail. By following this recipe, you'll be able to create a comforting and delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.
Remember, you can always customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using store-bought pie crust for convenience. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or craving a cozy meal at home, this chicken pie is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness with this delightful chicken pie recipe. Bon appétit!
