Chicken and Ham Pie with a Flaky Pastry Crust
There’s something incredibly comforting about settling down with a warm plate of pie after a long day. Chicken and Ham Pie satisfies that craving for hearty meals that many seek out when they want to feel cozy. The rich combination of tender chicken and flavorful ham enveloped in a creamy filling creates a dish that is simply irresistible, making it a beloved recipe for dinner. Each bite takes you into a world of savory goodness, and the experience is amplified by the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen during baking.
A savory pie captures the essence of comfort food in a delightful and simple way. The magic lies not just in the filling but also in the Flaky Pastry Crust that holds everything together. This crust is light, buttery, and delightfully crispy. It adds texture and crunch, making each bite an adventure. Store-bought crusts lack the personal touch that homemade pastry brings to the table. When you make it yourself, you control the ingredients and can craft a crust that perfectly complements your filling.
Homemade pastry elevates any dish, and this pie is no exception. When making your own crust, you can experiment with herbs and spices to give it a unique flavor. Incorporating a touch of sage or thyme can enhance the overall taste profile. Baking tips for pie lovers include keeping your fat cold and not overworking the dough. These steps create that signature flakiness that everyone loves in a pie crust. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or at a gathering, a hearty meal like this is sure to please.
With so many possible variations, this easy recipe can be tailored to individual tastes. Guests will appreciate the loving care you put into preparing this dish. Next time you crave comfort food, consider making this Chicken and Ham Pie. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish while bringing your family together around the dinner table.
Ingredients and Quantities
Pie Filling
For the filling, you will require the following:
- Chicken: 2 cups, cooked and diced. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results.
- Ham: 1 cup, diced. A leftover ham from a previous meal works wonderfully here.
- Cream: 1 cup heavy cream. This ingredient adds a rich, creamy filling that everyone will enjoy.
- Vegetables: 1 cup mixed. Consider peas, carrots, and corn for a colorful and tasty combination.
- Herbs and spices: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. These will elevate the savory pie and enhance the flavors.
Flaky Pastry Crust
Moving on to the crust, which is crucial for a perfect homemade pastry:
- Flour: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour. Use a little extra for dusting your workspace during preparation.
- Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), chilled and cut into small pieces. The butter needs to be cold for a flaky texture.
- Water: 6 to 8 tablespoons cold water. Gradually add water until the dough just comes together, being careful not to make it too wet.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon. This adds flavor to the pie crust, ensuring a balanced taste.
This easy recipe for a comforting, hearty meal is perfect for any dinner. Use these baking tips for the best outcome: keep your ingredients cold and handle the dough minimally. With the right approach, you can create a savory pie that your family will love.
Method for Making Chicken and Ham Pie
Preparing the Filling
To begin, gather your ingredients. Chop chicken breast and slice ham into bite-sized pieces. On the stovetop, heat some butter in a large skillet. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Pour in some chicken broth to keep the meat moist. Stir in diced onions, carrots, and peas to create a colorful filling. Mix in herbs and spices like thyme and rosemary for extra flavor. Now, it’s time to make it creamy. Add a splash of cream and a sprinkle of flour. This provides thickness and will create a smooth filling. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
Making a Homemade Pastry Crust
A flaky pastry crust is essential for this savory pie. Start by combining flour, salt, and cold butter in a bowl. Use your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Cold water is next. Gradually add it while mixing gently until the dough holds together. Remember, overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust. Shape the mixture into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps achieve that distinct flakiness.
Assembling the Pie and Baking Directions
After chilling, roll out the pastry on a floured surface. Aim for a round shape thick enough to hold the filling. Place it in a pie dish, letting some dough hang over the edges. Spoon the creamy filling onto the crust. Now, roll out another piece of dough for the top. Lay it carefully over the filling and press the edges together. Crimp them for a decorative touch. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. The pie should turn a beautiful golden brown when ready.
Tips for a Golden Flaky Crust
Using cold ingredients is key to a lofty pie crust. It creates layers that will bake up flaky and light. Brushing the top with an egg wash before baking enhances color. Consider sprinkling some sea salt or herbs on the crust for added taste. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil. Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. This patience leads to a neat presentation. Enjoy a hearty meal that brings comfort to the table with each delicious bite.
Baking Tips for the Perfect Pie
Baking a savory pie like chicken and ham is all about achieving the right balance of flavors and textures. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps create a beautifully golden crust while cooking the filling thoroughly. Baking time will typically range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your size and depth of the pie. Always keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
To prevent a soggy bottom crust, one effective method is to blind bake the pastry. Line the inside of the pie crust with parchment paper, then fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake it for about 15 minutes before adding the filling. This initial cooking helps set the crust and keeps it crisp when you add that creamy filling.
For achieving the best flaky texture, make sure your homemade pastry is cold before you roll it out. Use cold butter and ice water in your dough to maximize flakiness. When rolling out the crust, avoid overworking the dough. This allows the layers to form, which is essential for that sought-after flaky pie crust. A quick tip: fold the dough several times to create more layers.
Allowing the pie to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing is crucial. This waiting period helps the filling to settle and thicken slightly. Cutting into it too soon can lead to a mess. You want to savor every bite as you enjoy this hearty meal, filled with herbs and spices that make each slice delightful.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Chicken and ham pie is a wonderful choice for a hearty meal. The flaky pastry crust adds a delightful crunch to the creamy filling. This savory pie can be the centerpiece of a cozy dinner. Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can enhance the flavors beautifully.
For those who prefer heartier options, mashed potatoes or buttery corn are excellent accompaniments. Roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, can add color and additional nutrients. These sides complement the rich filling and bring a bit of balance to the plate.
Variations on the Recipe
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the filling. Adding mushrooms or leeks can provide extra depth of flavor. For a twist on the traditional recipe, try using different meats, such as turkey or even a mix with pancetta. This easy recipe allows for plenty of creativity.
If you’re looking to cater to personal tastes, consider modifying the spices. Some people enjoy adding thyme or rosemary to the filling. These herbs and spices can elevate the dish and offer a unique flavor profile. A pinch of nutmeg can also make a surprising difference.
Baking Tips
Preparing homemade pastry can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Ensure your butter is cold for a flaky texture. Chill your pie crust before baking to help it hold its shape. Brushing the top with an egg wash adds a beautiful golden color when baked.
Overall, consider what your family enjoys. Customizing the herbs and flavors can turn this classic dish into something everyone loves. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Wrapping Up the Comfort of Homemade Pie
The appeal of a savory pie lies in its warmth and familiarity. It’s a dish that wraps you in a soft embrace after a long day. Many people treasure the blend of tender chicken and flavorful ham, combined with a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. Each bite brings a wonderful mix of textures and tastes. Comfort food like this creates memories around the dinner table.
Why not try making your own version at home? With just a few simple ingredients and some time, you can create a delicious meal that will impress your family. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner. Making pie is a rewarding experience. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to be made with care and love.
Baking with friends and family can be especially delightful. Gather your loved ones, roll out the pastry, and share in the process. Everyone can join in to chop, stir, and shape the pie, creating laughter and joy in the kitchen. This shared experience adds an element of fun to the cooking. Ultimately, the memories created while making a meal are often just as cherished as the meal itself.
