Chicken and Leek Pie Recipe: A Delectable Delight for Dinner
Chicken and leek pie is a classic British comfort food that never fails to satisfy with its creamy filling encased in a buttery, flaky pastry. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it the perfect dish to impress family and friends. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a mouth-watering chicken and leek pie that will become a regular feature on your dinner table.
Ingredients:
– 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 2 leeks, washed and sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp plain flour
– 300ml chicken stock
– 150ml double cream
– 1 tsp thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 500g block of ready-made puff pastry
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Preparing the Filling:
1. Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan).
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the diced chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the sliced leeks and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
5. Sprinkle the plain flour over the leeks and stir to coat, cooking for a further 2 minutes.
6. Slowly pour in the chicken stock while continuously whisking to avoid any lumps forming.
7. Add the double cream, thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until it thickens.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix well to combine. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Assembling the Pie:
1. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
2. Place the chicken and leek filling into a pie dish, ensuring it is evenly spread.
3. Cover the filling with the rolled-out pastry, trimming off any excess around the edges.
4. Use a fork to crimp the edges of the pastry to seal the pie.
5. Make a few slits on the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.
6. Brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
Baking the Pie:
1. Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the filling is bubbling.
2. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken and leek pie into generous portions and serve hot with your choice of sides, such as buttery mashed potatoes and steamed greens. The creamy filling with tender chicken and sweet leeks encased in buttery pastry is sure to impress your dinner guests and leave them wanting more.
In Conclusion:
This chicken and leek pie recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines simple ingredients with rich flavors to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed for a cosy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is a versatile option that never disappoints. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a taste of British comfort with this delicious and easy-to-make chicken and leek pie recipe.