Ultimate Homemade Chicken Pie: A Comfort Food Classic for Every Occasion

Discover the ultimate homemade chicken pie recipe that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and flaky pastry. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, and comforting meals, this detailed guide walks you through every step from roasting chicken to crafting the perfect pastry crust. Easy to customize, it offers a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, make this classic comfort food at home and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills. The golden crust and flavorful filling make it a standout recipe for any occasion.

Ultimate Homemade Chicken Pie: A Comfort Food Classic for Every Occasion

A Delicious and Heartwarming Homemade Chicken Pie Recipe

If you're searching for a dish that embodies warmth, comfort, and deliciousness, look no further than this homemade chicken pie. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or chilly evenings, this classic recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken with a rich assortment of vegetables all enclosed in a flaky, buttery pastry crust. The combination of savory ingredients and the crispy, golden exterior makes this chicken pie a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Using simple ingredients that are easily available in most kitchens, this recipe offers an enjoyable cooking experience that yields a hearty meal for the whole family. Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving, hosting a Sunday lunch, or simply craving comfort food, this chicken pie stands out as an ideal choice that can be adapted to your taste preferences.

Ingredients for the Filling:

3 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (divided into 6 pieces)

Kosher salt to season

Freshly ground black pepper for flavor

¾ cup all-purpose flour for thickening

5 cups homemade chicken broth, freshly prepared

2 chicken bouillon cubes to enhance depth of flavor

¼ cup heavy cream for richness

2 large yellow onions, diced finely

1½ cups frozen pearl onions for sweetness

2 cups diced carrots, briefly blanched

2 cups frozen peas for a pop of color and freshness

½ cup chopped fresh parsley for added aroma

12 tablespoons unsalted butter for sautéing and sauce

3 tablespoons olive oil for roasting

Pastry Ingredients:

3 cups refined flour for the dough

½ to 2/3 cup ice-cold water to bind the dough

1 teaspoon baking powder to ensure flakiness

1½ teaspoons kosher salt for seasoning

¼ pound cold unsalted butter, cubed for richness

½ cup vegetable shortening for tender crust

1 beaten egg plus 1 tablespoon water for egg wash

Cracked black pepper and sea salt for topping

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.

Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then brush with olive oil. Roast them in the oven for approximately 40-45 minutes until thoroughly cooked and the skin is crispy. Allow the chicken to cool, then debone and chop or shred into bite-sized pieces, yielding about 5 to 6 cups of shredded chicken.

Next, prepare the flavorful sauce: heat the homemade chicken broth and dissolve the bouillon cubes into it. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until translucent and fragrant. Slowly stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking gently until it turns slightly golden. Gradually pour in the hot broth mixture, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens to a smooth consistency. Incorporate the heavy cream, along with salt and pepper to taste, then add the shredded chicken along with the pre-cooked vegetables—carrots, pearl onions, and peas—mixing everything thoroughly. Finish by stirring in freshly chopped parsley for added aroma and freshness.

To make the pastry, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt in a food processor. Add the cold cubed butter and shortening, pulsing until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. With the processor running, slowly add the ice-cold water until the dough just comes together. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface, knead briefly into a smooth ball, then wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to rest.

Divide the rested dough into portions, then roll each portion into an 8-inch circle on a floured surface. Spoon the chicken filling into each circle, then fold the dough over to form a semi-circle or full circle, pinching and crimping the edges to seal the pie entirely. Cut a small vent on the top to allow steam to escape during baking, then brush the surface with the beaten egg wash. Sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper to enhance flavor and presentation.

Arrange the assembled pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and bubbly. Remove from the oven and allow resting for a few minutes before serving hot, ensuring the delicious filling stays intact when cut into slices. Serve this classic chicken pie with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.

This homemade chicken pie is more than just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience that combines savory flavors, flaky pastry, and the comfort of home cooking. It’s perfect for special occasions or as an everyday family favorite that will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. The balance of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and buttery crust makes each bite satisfying and memorable. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices, making it uniquely yours. With a little preparation and patience, you'll enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right from your own kitchen, bringing family and friends together to share in its delicious goodness.