How to Perfectly Bake a Savory Chicken Pie

Cooking Time: 2 hours
Servings: 6-8 servings

Baking a savory chicken pie can be a rewarding experience, especially if you are looking for a heartwarming dish that is both delicious and comforting. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions on how to prepare this delightful meal with ease. Whether you're hosting friends or just making it for yourself, this chicken pie will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients needed for the filling:

• 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of sliced carrots
• 1 cup of chopped onions
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups of chicken broth
• Cheese of your choice (optional)

For the pastry crust:

• 3 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of cold butter, cut into cubes
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 3-4 tablespoons of ice water or milk

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 Celsius).

• Mix the chicken, carrots, onions and garlic in a pan. Add the butter or olive oil.
• Sauté the mixture until it becomes golden brown. This process takes around 15-20 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste as you mix them well together.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix flour with chicken broth and stir until there are no lumps left.

• Pour the mixture over the sautéed chicken mixture. Bring it to a boil before you reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about another 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 Celsius).
• Once done, allow the mixture to cool slightly before you transfer it into a baking dish.

Step 3: In a bowl, combine flour and cold butter. Add salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix with ice water or milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough is just coming together but not wet.

• Gather the dough into a ball, flatten it slightly and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Chill the pastry for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface. Cover it with another piece of parchment paper and roll again until you get a smooth, even thickness that matches your baking dish’s size. Carefully remove the top sheet of parchment paper before transferring the pastry to the pan.

• To ensure the bottom crust is sealed properly, crimp the edges of the crust with the tines of a fork or pinch them together firmly.
• Fill the pie shell with the cooled chicken and vegetable filling. Sprinkle some cheese over it if you prefer that extra touch of flavor.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for about an hour, until the top crust is golden brown and crisp.

Tips for Success

• If possible, prepare the filling a day before. This gives the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful pie.
• Use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Fresh herbs, free-range chicken, organic vegetables, and cold butter are recommended.
• Maintaining an even temperature during baking is crucial. Make sure your oven temperature is accurate before you start baking.

Step 6: Once done, remove the pie from the oven carefully using oven mitts to protect yourself from heat. Let it cool down completely for at least 20 minutes so that it’s easier to handle and eat. Serve warm or cold depending on your preference.

• To store leftovers safely, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving.

Conclusion: Baking a savory chicken pie is not just about following recipes; it's also about the joy that comes from sharing a meal with loved ones. This dish is versatile enough to be served at any time of day, whether for breakfast, lunch or dinner. With its comforting flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become one of your family favorites.