Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Chicken Leek Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Chicken Leek Pie is a beloved dish that encapsulates the warmth and comfort of home cooking. This scrumptious pie features tender chicken and flavorful leeks encased in a golden pastry, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or a cozy evening at home. 🍽️ In this blog post, we will delve into the recipe, explore the ingredients needed, and share tips to achieve the best results.

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Ingredients for the Ultimate Chicken Leek Pie 🥧

To create this delectable dish, you'll need to gather some essential ingredients. Below is a detailed list that includes everything you need for the filling as well as the pastry.

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For the Pastry

• 500g plain flour
• 250g unsalted butter, diced and chilled
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg yolk
• Cold water

For the Filling

• 700g chicken breasts, diced
• 2 large leeks, finely sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 300ml chicken stock
• 200ml double cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparing the Pastry 🍽️

Making the pastry is a crucial step in ensuring that your chicken leek pie is both flaky and delicious. Follow these steps for perfect pastry:

1. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter, and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

2. Adding the Egg Yolk: Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough; it should be soft yet manageable.

3. Chilling the Dough: Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps in resting the dough, ensuring it becomes easier to roll out and prevents shrinkage while baking.

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Making the Filling 🐔

While the dough chills, you can prepare the chicken and leek filling. The filling is what brings this dish to life!

1. Cooking the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sautéing the Leeks: In the same skillet, add the sliced leeks and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

3. Combining Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, and add the chicken stock, double cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped parsley for added freshness.

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Assembling the Pie 🥧

With the pastry and filling ready, it’s time to assemble your pie:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (or 180°C for fan ovens).

2. Rolling Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out two-thirds of the pastry into a circle. Line a pie dish with the pastry, allowing the excess to hang over the edges.

3. Filling the Pie: Pour the chicken and leek filling into the pastry base, spreading it evenly.

4. Covering the Pie: Roll out the remaining pastry and cover the filling. Press the edges together to seal and trim any excess. Cut a few slits on the top to allow steam to escape.

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Baking the Pie 🔥

1. Egg Wash: Beat an egg and brush it over the top of the pastry to give it a golden color when baked.

2. Baking Time: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

3. Cooling: Once baked, let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the filling set slightly and make it easier to slice.

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Serving Suggestions 🍽️

The Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Chicken Leek Pie can be served with a side of seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad. This combination not only enhances the dish but adds a delightful crunch and freshness to the meal.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pie

• Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality chicken and fresh leeks.
• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding additional herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: This pie can be prepared in advance and frozen. Just make sure to bake it from frozen; it may take a bit longer.

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Conclusion 🥳

Creating the Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Chicken Leek Pie is a rewarding culinary experience. Not only does it satisfy the palate, but it also fills your home with delightful aromas. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion, combining ease of preparation with an impressive presentation. Whether you're cooking for family or hosting friends, this chicken leek pie is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!