Chicken pie is a delicious comfort food that's perfect for family dinners. You'll love the tender chicken chunks, mixed with veggies and creamy sauce, all wrapped in a flaky, golden crust. It's easy to make and serves 6-8 people. Preheat your oven, prepare the filling, and make the dough. Then, assemble the pie by pressing dough into a baking dish, adding the filling, and covering it with more dough. Don't forget to cut slits for steam to escape! Bake until golden brown and bubbly. There's so much more to discover about this mouthwatering dish, from its history to tasty variations.
Key Takeaways
- Chicken pie is a savory dish featuring tender chicken chunks in a creamy sauce encased in flaky pastry.
- The dish typically serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Key ingredients include cooked chicken, frozen vegetables, butter, flour, and chicken broth.
- Baking time is usually 30-35 minutes at 425°F (220°C) until the crust is golden and filling bubbles.
- Variations include adding different vegetables, experimenting with seasonings, or substituting chicken with other proteins like turkey or beef.
History
Three distinct origins contribute to the history of chicken pie. You'll be excited to learn about this tasty dish's roots!
First, it's believed that the ancient Greeks were making meat pies as far back as the 5th century BC. They'd wrap meat in a flour and water paste, then bake it. Clever, right?
Next, you've got the Romans. They took this idea and ran with it, creating elaborate pies filled with all sorts of meats, including chicken. They'd even decorate the crusts with intricate designs. How cool is that?
Finally, there's the Medieval influence. In England during the Middle Ages, cooks started making "coffyns," which were savory pies with tall, straight sides. These pies often contained chicken and other poultry. They were a hit at fancy feasts and banquets!
Over time, these different traditions mixed and merged. People all over the world started making their own versions of chicken pie.
Today, you can find countless recipes, from pot pies to hand pies, each with its own special twist. Isn't it amazing how one simple dish can have such a rich history?
Recipe
Chicken pie is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chunks of chicken with a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, golden pastry. This classic recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.
This recipe yields a generous 9-inch pie that serves 6-8 people. While it may seem like a complex dish, with a little preparation and patience, you'll be able to create a mouthwatering chicken pie that rivals any restaurant version. The combination of savory chicken, vegetables, and herbs creates a rich and flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with the buttery crust.
- 2 cups cooked, diced chicken
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 (9 inch) unbaked pie crusts
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed, stirring until smooth. Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking and stirring until the mixture boils and thickens.
Add the chicken and mixed vegetables, stirring to combine. Pour the mixture into the bottom pie crust, then cover with the top crust. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
For best results, let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of white wine to the sauce while cooking. To prevent the edges of the crust from browning too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil during the first 15-20 minutes of baking.
Leftover chicken pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Cooking Steps
You're about to embark on a tasty journey to make a delicious chicken pie!
First, you'll preheat your oven and prepare the shredded chicken filling, which is the heart of your pie.
Then, you'll mix the dough ingredients, add them to your baking dish, and top it all off with the filling and a final layer of dough, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece that's ready for the oven.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Before diving into the filling preparation, it's crucial to get your oven ready. You'll want to preheat it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure your chicken pie bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden. This step might seem small, but it's super important!
While your oven's heating up, you can gather all your ingredients and start prepping them. Don't forget to position your oven rack in the center. This helps the heat circulate evenly around your pie.
If you're using a convection oven, you might want to lower the temperature by about 25°F, as these ovens cook faster. Keep an eye on the oven's temperature indicator light – when it goes off, that means your oven's reached the right temperature.
It usually takes about 10-15 minutes to preheat, but this can vary depending on your oven. While you're waiting, why not do a little kitchen dance? It'll make the time fly by!
Step 2. Prepare Shredded Chicken Filling
Now that your oven's preheating, it's time to tackle the star of the show: the shredded chicken filling. You'll need about 2 cups of cooked chicken for this recipe. If you haven't already, boil some chicken breasts until they're fully cooked. Once they're cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with some diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. These ingredients will add tons of flavor to your filling!
Next, pour in some chicken broth to keep everything moist and delicious. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika or your favorite herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Now, here's the fun part: mix everything together with your hands! It might feel a bit messy, but it's the best way to make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Once you're done, your chicken filling will be ready to go into the pie crust. Yum!
Step 3. Mix Dough Ingredients Together
With the chicken filling ready, let's turn our attention to the pie crust.
You'll need a large mixing bowl to combine all the dough ingredients. Start by adding the flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Give these dry ingredients a quick stir with a whisk or fork to blend them together.
Now, it's time to add the wet ingredients. Crack the eggs into the bowl, and pour in the milk and oil. Using a wooden spoon or your clean hands, mix everything together until you've got a soft, slightly sticky dough.
Don't worry if it looks a bit messy at first – that's normal!
Keep mixing and kneading the dough in the bowl for about 5 minutes. You'll feel it becoming smoother and more elastic as you work it. If the dough feels too sticky, you can sprinkle in a little more flour.
Once it's nice and smooth, form it into a ball. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out later.
Step 4. Add Dough to Baking Dish
After your dough has rested, it's time to add it to your baking dish. Grab your greased baking dish and get ready for some fun! Now, gently transfer the dough into the greased baking dish, making sure to spread it out evenly. This step is crucial for achieving a uniform texture throughout the bread. Once the dough is in the dish, it’s time to sprinkle it with your favorite toppings, such as cheese, herbs, or even garlic. This step will add a delicious finishing touch to your homemade cheese bread recipe.
Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the dish. You'll want to create an even layer that's about 1/4 inch thick. Don't worry if it's not perfect – your pie will still taste amazing!
Now, here's a neat trick: use a fork to poke some holes in the bottom of the dough. This will help prevent air bubbles from forming while it bakes.
Next, spread your chicken filling evenly over the dough. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges so you can seal the pie later.
For the top crust, roll out the remaining dough on a lightly floured surface. Carefully transfer it to cover the filling, and press the edges together to seal.
Don't forget to cut a few small slits in the top to let steam escape. Your chicken pie is now ready for the oven!
Step 5. Add Filling and Top Layer
The moment has arrived to bring your chicken pie to life with its flavorful filling and golden top layer.
First, grab your prepared chicken mixture and carefully spoon it into the dough-lined baking dish. Spread it evenly, making sure to fill all the corners. Don't be shy – pack it in there!
Next, it's time for the fun part: the top layer. Take the remaining dough you've set aside and gently roll it out to fit the top of your pie. Carefully drape it over the filling, pressing the edges to seal it with the bottom crust.
Here's a pro tip: use a fork to crimp the edges, creating a pretty pattern that'll make your pie look extra special.
Now, let's add some flair! Use a sharp knife to cut a few small slits in the center of the top crust. This will let steam escape and give your pie a rustic look.
For a beautiful golden finish, brush the top with a beaten egg. Your chicken pie is now ready for the oven, where it'll transform into a mouthwatering masterpiece!
Final Thoughts
Throughout this journey of creating the perfect chicken pie, you've learned valuable techniques and tips. You've mastered the art of making a flaky crust, seasoning the filling just right, and assembling the layers with care.
Now, as you take your golden-brown masterpiece out of the oven, you can't help but feel proud of your accomplishment.
Remember, practice makes perfect! Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't exactly like the picture. Each time you make this delicious dish, you'll get better and more confident.
You can even experiment with different ingredients to make it your own special recipe. Try adding vegetables like peas or carrots, or swap the chicken for turkey or beef.
Your homemade chicken pie is sure to become a family favorite. It's perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or when you need to impress guests.
Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a mouth-watering meal that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Torta De Frango Be Made Ahead and Frozen?
Yes, you can make it ahead and freeze it. It's a great time-saver for busy days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. When you're ready, thaw and reheat it.
What Are Some Common Side Dishes Served With Torta De Frango?
You'll often find this dish served with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or rice. Don't forget about Brazilian-style potato salad! For a complete meal, you might also enjoy some farofa or fried plantains on the side.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of Torta De Frango?
You can definitely make a vegetarian version of this dish. Try substituting the chicken with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You'll still get a delicious savory filling in a flaky pastry crust.
How Long Does Leftover Torta De Frango Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?
You'll want to eat your leftovers within 3-4 days for best quality and safety. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Don't leave them out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can Torta De Frango Be Served as Finger Food at Parties?
You can definitely serve this dish as finger food at parties. Cut it into small, bite-sized squares or rectangles. It's a tasty, portable option that guests can easily pick up and enjoy while mingling.
Ana is our Brazilian barbecue expert, known for her churrasco techniques and tropical-infused side dishes. Whether it’s a casual weekend cookout or a large festive gathering, Ana brings the vibrant energy of Brazil to every meal, making outdoor cooking an unforgettable experience.
