James Martin's Chicken Mushroom Pie is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This recipe is a favorite among many, combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this chicken mushroom pie is sure to impress. Let's dive into the preparation and ingredients needed to create this delicious comfort food. 🍽️
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=James+Martin'S+Delicious+Chicken+Mushroom+Pie+Recipe" alt="James Martin's Chicken Mushroom Pie"> </div>
Ingredients Needed for the Pie 🥘
To create this scrumptious dish, gather the following ingredients:
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For the Pie Filling:
- 500g chicken breast, diced
- 250g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 300ml chicken stock
- 200ml double cream
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
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For the Pastry:
- 300g puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
Here is a quick overview of the ingredients:
<table> <tr> <th>Ingredient</th> <th>Quantity</th> </tr> <tr> <td>Chicken Breast</td> <td>500g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Mushrooms</td> <td>250g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Onion</td> <td>1</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Garlic</td> <td>2 cloves</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Chicken Stock</td> <td>300ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Double Cream</td> <td>200ml</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Plain Flour</td> <td>1 tablespoon</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Olive Oil</td> <td>1 tablespoon</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Salt and Pepper</td> <td>To taste</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Puff Pastry</td> <td>300g</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Egg</td> <td>1 (beaten for glazing)</td> </tr> </table>
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Chicken+Mushroom+Pie+Ingredients" alt="Chicken Mushroom Pie Ingredients"> </div>
Step-by-Step Preparation 🍳
Now that we have all the ingredients, let's move on to the preparation steps for this chicken mushroom pie.
Step 1: Cook the Filling
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
- Add the diced chicken breast and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they have softened.
- Sprinkle the plain flour over the mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the double cream, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir well and remove from heat. Let it cool while you prepare the pastry.
Important Note: Ensure the filling is cool before adding it to the pie, as hot filling can make the pastry soggy.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Chicken+Mushroom+Filling" alt="Cooking Chicken Mushroom Filling"> </div>
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface until it's about 3mm thick.
- Take a pie dish and line it with half of the rolled-out pastry. Ensure there are no gaps.
- Pour the cooled chicken mushroom filling into the pastry-lined dish.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Rolling+Out+Puff+Pastry" alt="Rolling Out Puff Pastry"> </div>
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out the remaining pastry for the lid.
- Place the pastry on top of the filling, trimming any excess hanging over the edges.
- Press the edges to seal, crimping with a fork if desired.
- Cut a few slits in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Assembling+Chicken+Mushroom+Pie" alt="Assembling Chicken Mushroom Pie"> </div>
Step 4: Baking the Pie
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Baking+Chicken+Mushroom+Pie" alt="Baking Chicken Mushroom Pie"> </div>
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
James Martin's Chicken Mushroom Pie is best served hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with some seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp side salad to elevate the meal. You can also enjoy it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing soda.
Variations to the Recipe
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your tastes! Here are a few variations you might want to try:
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate peas or carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Change the Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, or spices like paprika, to enhance the flavor.
<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=Serving+Chicken+Mushroom+Pie" alt="Serving Chicken Mushroom Pie"> </div>
Conclusion 🍴
James Martin's Chicken Mushroom Pie is a comfort food classic that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling and flaky pastry, it’s a dish that brings happiness to the table. By following this recipe, you'll not only create a hearty meal but also make wonderful memories with family and friends. Enjoy cooking and indulging in this culinary delight!