Flaky Chicken Pie

For the Crust:

• Puff pastry: This is the secret to getting that golden, flaky crust. You can use store-bought puff pastry for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious.
• Egg wash: A beaten egg mixed with water or milk to brush on top of the pie before baking, which will give the crust its beautiful golden color.

How to Make Flaky Chicken Pie:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by cooking the chicken if it’s not already cooked. You can bake, grill, or poach it, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set the chicken aside.

Next, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’re using frozen vegetables, make sure they’re thawed before adding them to the pan.

Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. This will help thicken the filling. Gradually pour in 1 ½ cups of chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Now, add the heavy cream to the mixture, stirring to combine. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley to taste. Finally, add the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry Crust

While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface, ensuring it’s large enough to cover your pie dish. If you’re making individual pies, you can cut the pastry into smaller circles or squares to fit your dishes.

Place the puff pastry over the pie dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges. Press the edges gently to seal and crimp with a fork for a decorative look. If you’re making a top-only crust, use the remaining dough to create a top layer for the pie.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Spoon the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared pie dish. Make sure the filling is evenly spread and level. Then, cover the pie with the prepared puff pastry, pressing down the edges to seal it. If you’re using a top crust, make a few small slits in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash

To achieve that golden, flaky crust, brush the top of the pie with an egg wash. Simply beat one egg with a tablespoon of water or milk, and gently brush it over the pastry using a pastry brush.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the pastry start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the pie is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy this deliciously flaky, creamy chicken pie!

Tips for the Best Flaky Chicken Pie:

1. Use Cold Puff Pastry: If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, make sure it’s chilled before working with it. This ensures it puffs up nicely when baked.
2. Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great option for saving time and adding extra flavor to the pie.
3. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the filling. Mushrooms, celery, or potatoes are all great additions that can enhance the flavor and texture of the pie.
4. Make Ahead: This pie can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. You can also freeze the unbaked pie and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
5. Perfect Golden Crust: If you want the crust to be extra crispy, place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures even heat distribution and helps avoid soggy bottoms.

Why You’ll Love Flaky Chicken Pie:

1. Comforting: This pie is the epitome of comfort food, offering a creamy filling, tender chicken, and a light, flaky crust.
2. Easy to Make: Although it looks impressive, this chicken pie is relatively simple to prepare, especially when using store-bought puff pastry.
3. Customizable: You can tweak the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, herbs, or seasonings to make it your own.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner, a holiday meal, or a potluck, this pie is sure to be a hit.
5. Leftover-Friendly: This pie is an excellent way to use up leftover chicken, making it both economical and delicious.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that is easy to make and full of flavor, Flaky Chicken Pie is the perfect dish. With a creamy, savory filling and a light, golden crust, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to disappear quickly. Grab your ingredients, roll out the pastry, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that will warm your heart and your stomach!