Main Course

Chicken Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Name: Chicken Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed veggies; 2 cups shredded cooked chicken or turkey; 14 ounces chicken stock; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon poultry herb seasoning; 3 cups creamy mashed potatoes; 1/4 cup whole milk; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Glennis Annis November 22, 2024

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I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food. It reminds me of family gatherings, cozy nights in, and the pure joy of eating warm, hearty meals.

During one of my culinary explorations, I stumbled upon chicken shepherd’s pie. It’s a dish that truly encapsulates warmth and satisfaction, and with my nutrition background, I’m excited to share it with you.

What is Chicken Shepherd’s Pie?

At its core, chicken shepherd’s pie is a savory baked dish that layers shredded chicken in a creamy sauce, topped with a generous mound of fluffy mashed potatoes. Typically, shepherd’s pie is associated with lamb or beef, but I find swapping in chicken brings its own unique charm.

This version is especially vibrant and nuanced, showcasing fresh ingredients and comforting flavors.

Three elements make this dish stand out: the depth of flavors from the filling, the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, and the tempting golden crust that forms when baked.

The colors in the filling from mixed vegetables create a visual feast in addition to a culinary one.

Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover chicken, making this pie not only delightful but practical.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

You might be wondering why you should try this recipe. Let me list a few compelling reasons:

Comfort in Every Bite: There’s something magical about a home-cooked pie. It’s nostalgia on a plate.

Customizable: Easily tailor the fillings based on what you have in your fridge. Leftover veggies or proteins can shine here.

A Nutritional Powerhouse: Loaded with veggies and lean proteins, you can feel good serving this to your family.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead, freeze, and pop in the oven whenever a craving strikes.

Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of the buttery mashed potatoes and the seasoned chicken filling creates an irresistible duet.

The Ingredients

Before we dive into the cooking adventure, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s the magic list:

½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups frozen mixed veggies (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken or turkey
14 ounces chicken stock
½ cup dry white wine (or substitute with extra chicken stock)
1 teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon poultry herb seasoning
3 cups creamy mashed potatoes
¼ cup whole milk
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

Step by Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these carefully crafted steps to create your chicken shepherd’s pie masterpiece.

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, gather a baking dish—about 2-quart size works well. This step sets the stage for your oven-baked creation.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the finely chopped onion and let it cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The smell is already heavenly!

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onions and garlic in the skillet. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. At this point, things might start getting a bit thick.

Step 4: Add the Liquid Gold

Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and dry white wine. This is where the magic begins. Keep whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken. Add the sea salt, pepper, and poultry herb seasoning to elevate the flavors.

Step 5: Fold in the Stars

Now, fold in the shredded chicken and frozen mixed veggies. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The anticipation builds as you watch your filling transform.

Step 6: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

If you haven’t done so already, make your creamy mashed potatoes. Boil your potatoes until tender, then mash them with the whole milk, Dijon mustard, and fresh thyme. Season to taste with salt and pepper. They should be creamy but with enough structure to hold their shape when spread.

Step 7: Assemble the Pie

Now, take your filling and pour it into the bottom of the baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Then, using a spoon or a spatula, dollop the mashed potatoes on top and gently spread them to cover the filling.

Use a fork to create peaks. These peaks will brown and crisp up beautifully as they bake.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled pie in the preheated oven and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. The scent that fills your kitchen is something you’ll want to bottle up and keep forever.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some pointers to ensure your chicken shepherd’s pie turns out perfectly:

Use Leftovers: This pie is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover chicken. It adds flavor and saves time.

Season Wisely: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. A good shepherd’s pie should sing with flavor.

Mashed Potatoes: If you’re short on time, store-bought mashed potatoes work too! Just spice them up with some seasoning.

Texture Matters: Ensure your filling isn’t too runny; the mashed potatoes won’t hold if it is.

Make It Ahead: You can prepare and assemble your pie a day in advance. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if cooking from the fridge.

Can I Store Chicken Shepherd’s Pie?

Absolutely! After baking, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover it tightly, and it will retain its deliciousness. If you want to freeze it, ensure the pie has cooled completely before wrapping it up.

It can hold in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven.

What Can I Serve with Chicken Shepherd’s Pie?

Looking for the perfect sidekick for your pie? Consider these:

Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad can balance the richness of the pie.
Garlic Bread: Slathered in butter, it’s a delightful addition.
Steamed Green Beans: They add color and texture to your plate.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing counterpart to the warm pie.
Roasted Vegetables: They bring extra vitamins and flavors.

Variations

To keep things exciting, here are a few variations to consider:

Southwestern Style: Add corn, black beans, and a hint of chili spice. Top with jalapeño cheddar mashed potatoes.
Creamy Mushroom: Stir in sautéed mushrooms with the filling. It provides earthiness and depth.
Herbed Chicken: Use fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley in the filling for a fragrant twist.
Buffalo Chicken: Mix in buffalo sauce with the chicken for a spicy kick. Top with blue cheese crumbles.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for lentils or chickpeas and add in your favorite vegetables.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of making chicken shepherd’s pie is not just about the final dish. It’s about the memories created in the kitchen and the satisfaction of serving something so warm and inviting.

Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a lively family gathering, this dish has a way of bringing people together. Dive into this recipe, let it nourish your soul, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Who knew such magic could be crafted with a few simple ingredients? Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Chicken Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Hearty Food Ideas

Author: Glennis Annis Cuisine: American Courses: Main Course

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 45 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 182 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

I’ve always had a soft spot for comfort food. It reminds me of family gatherings, cozy nights in, and the pure joy of eating warm, hearty meals.

During one of my culinary explorations, I stumbled upon chicken shepherd's pie. It’s a dish that truly encapsulates warmth and satisfaction, and with my nutrition background, I’m excited to share it with you.