Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Pie
Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen
Savor the comforting goodness of Jamie Oliver's Chicken Pie, a delightful blend of tender chicken and fresh vegetables enveloped in a flaky, golden pastry. This recipe captures the essence of home cooking, providing a hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With rich flavors and a satisfying texture, this chicken pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
A Comforting Classic
There's something uniquely comforting about a warm chicken pie. It evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings spent together around the dinner table. This recipe encapsulates that warmth, thanks to its hearty filling made from succulent chicken and a medley of vegetables. Each bite brings a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a dish that pleases everyone. Whether it's a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this chicken pie will surely create lasting memories.
But what truly sets this chicken pie apart is its flaky pastry. The contrast between the golden crust and the savory filling makes for a visually appealing and irresistible dish. Preparing your pastry from scratch might seem daunting, but with Jamie Oliver’s straightforward method, you’ll achieve impressive results that will wow your family and friends. This classic recipe is about savoring good food and sharing joy, and it's bound to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredient Insights
The choice of ingredients in Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Pie plays a pivotal role in crafting a flavorful dish. Lean chicken thighs ensure that the filling remains tender and juicy, while fresh onions, carrots, and celery add both sweetness and crunch. Don't underestimate the power of garlic; it elevates the dish with its rich, aromatic notes. Moreover, using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought enriches the flavor profile, providing depth to the overall dish. For those seeking shortcuts, opt for rotisserie chicken to save time.
When it comes to the pastry, using cold butter and minimal handling is key for achieving that signature flakiness. The combination of butter and plain flour offers a simple yet effective base that complements the filling beautifully. By keeping the dough cold, you'll get a pastry that puffs up nicely in the oven. This recipe encourages you to celebrate fresh ingredients, making each bite not only delicious but also wholesome. Fresh, seasonal vegetables enhance the nutrition of your pie, making it a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make Jamie Oliver's Chicken Pie.
Filling
- 1 kg chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 150 g carrots, diced
- 150 g celery, diced
- 150 g onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 ml chicken stock
- 100 g peas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pastry
- 250 g plain flour
- 125 g butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg, beaten for glazing
- Cold water as needed
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect chicken pie.
Prepare the Filling
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
Make the Pastry
In a bowl, combine the flour and butter. Rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add cold water gradually to form a dough.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Pour the filling into the pastry-lined dish. Cover with another layer of pastry and seal the edges.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Pie
To enhance the depth of flavor in your chicken pie, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling. A splash of white wine can also provide an aromatic lift, complementing the chicken perfectly. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and feel free to experiment with additional vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor. Also, ensure that your filling is cooled slightly before adding it to the pastry to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
If you want to prepare the chicken pie in advance, you can make the filling and pastry separately. Assemble the pie a few hours before baking, or keep the assembled pie in the fridge for a day. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This will help the pastry bake evenly, resulting in that golden, flaky crust you'll love.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Pie is as important as preparing it. For a delightful presentation, place the pie on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh herbs. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the pie, adding a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes are also excellent sides, providing a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
For a comforting finish, consider serving the pie with a glass of chilled white wine or a warm cup of herbal tea. These beverages enhance your diner's experience, making it a memorable occasion. Leftovers, if there are any, can be enjoyed the next day, making for a quick and hearty lunch. This chicken pie is not just a dish; it's a shared experience, inviting everyone to come together and enjoy delicious food.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the filling and pastry and assemble it a day ahead. Just bake it before serving.
→ What can I serve with this pie?
A simple green salad or steamed vegetables work well as side dishes.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Pie
Savor the comforting goodness of Jamie Oliver's Chicken Pie, a delightful blend of tender chicken and fresh vegetables enveloped in a flaky, golden pastry. This recipe captures the essence of home cooking, providing a hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With rich flavors and a satisfying texture, this chicken pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Cozy Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Filling
- 1 kg chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 150 g carrots, diced
- 150 g celery, diced
- 150 g onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 ml chicken stock
- 100 g peas
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pastry
- 250 g plain flour
- 125 g butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg, beaten for glazing
- Cold water as needed
How-To Steps
In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned. Pour in the chicken stock and simmer for 20 minutes. Add peas and season with salt and pepper.
In a bowl, combine the flour and butter. Rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add cold water gradually to form a dough. Roll out and fit into a pie dish.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Pour the filling into the pastry-lined dish. Cover with another layer of pastry and seal the edges. Cut slits on top for steam to escape and brush with beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fat: 20 g