Name: The Best Chicken and Leek Pie You’ll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp oil (Substitution: Use butter for added flavor.); 2 large leeks (Clean thoroughly, as soil may gather between layers.); 4 pieces chicken thighs (Substitute with turkey or lamb if desired.); 25 g butter (No direct substitution recommended for best results.); 25 g plain flour (Consider gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.); 300 ml chicken stock (You can use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.); 100 ml double cream (Substitute with heavy cream or a plant-based alternative as necessary.); 375 g ready-rolled puff pastry (Use homemade pastry for a personal touch, but store-bought saves time.); 1 piece egg (No substitute if you want the traditional finish.)

The smell of a freshly baked pie can bring back cherished memories, wouldn’t you agree? Mary Berry’s Classic Chicken and Leek Pie is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace that transports me back to cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air. This iconic comfort food features tender chicken paired with sweet leeks, all enveloped in a crisp, golden puff pastry that’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or weeknight meals. One irresistible perk is its versatility—feel free to swap in turkey or mushrooms to suit your taste! Plus, it comes together seamlessly, making it a delightful option for busy cooks who crave something special without the hassle. Are you ready to whip up this culinary classic and fill your kitchen with its comforting aroma?

Chicken And Leek Pie

Why is This Chicken And Leek Pie Special?

Comforting Experience: This Chicken And Leek Pie encapsulates the essence of cozy home cooking, perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight meal.
Flavors That Sing: The delightful combination of tender chicken and sweet leeks mingles perfectly with a creamy sauce, all wrapped in a flaky pastry.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, you’ll find this recipe accessible, even for beginner cooks eager to impress.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize! Swap in turkey or mushrooms, allowing you to create variations that suit your family’s preferences.
Crowd Favorite: Its rich, satisfying flavors make it a hit at dinner parties, ensuring everyone leaves with full hearts and happy bellies.

Get ready to enjoy a slice of comfort that warms both body and soul!

Chicken And Leek Pie Ingredients

Discover the essential elements for creating this delightful dish.

For the Filling

Oil – Adds moisture and prevents sticking in the pan. Substitution: Use butter for added flavor.
Leeks (2 large) – Provide a sweet, mild onion flavor that forms the base of the filling. Note: Clean thoroughly, as soil may gather between layers.
Chicken Thighs (4, boneless) – Tender meat that remains juicy during cooking. Substitute with turkey or lamb if desired.
Butter (25g) – Used to create a roux for the sauce, enriching the flavor. No direct substitution recommended for best results.
Plain Flour (25g) – Thickens the creamy sauce for a perfect consistency. Consider gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Chicken Stock (300ml) – Adds depth of flavor to the filling. You can use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.
Double Cream (100ml) – Provides richness to the sauce. Substitute with heavy cream or a plant-based alternative as necessary.

For the Pastry

Ready-Rolled Puff Pastry (375g) – Forms the golden topping of the pie. Use homemade pastry for a personal touch, but store-bought saves time.
Egg (1, beaten) – Gives the pastry a beautiful golden color when brushed on top. No substitute if you want the traditional finish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken And Leek Pie

Step 1: Sauté Chicken and Leeks
In a large frying pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced large leeks and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Next, incorporate cubed boneless chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides.

Step 2: Make Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add 25g of butter to the pan, stirring until melted. Gradually sprinkle in 25g of plain flour, mixing to create a roux that cooks for about 1 minute. Slowly pour in 300ml of chicken stock and 100ml of double cream, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C Fan). Spoon the thick and creamy chicken and leek filling into a pie dish, spreading it evenly. Carefully lay the ready-rolled puff pastry over the top, trimming any excess edges. Crimp the edges securely to seal in the goodness, and make a small steam vent in the center to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 4: Bake
Brush the pastry generously with the beaten egg for a golden finish. Place the pie in the hot oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed up and beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on it, and remove from the oven when it’s tempting with its aromatic scent and delightful color.

Chicken And Leek Pie

What to Serve with Mary Berry Chicken And Leek Pie

Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that beautifully complement this heartwarming pie.

Fresh Garden Salad:
A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the pie.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes:
Soft, buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting, velvety base to soak up the pie’s creamy filling, enhancing each bite.
Roasted Seasonal Vegetables:
Roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts bring a sweet earthiness that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the chicken and leek filling.
Steamed Green Beans:
Tender, vibrant green beans add a pop of color and crunch, bringing a fresh flavor that cuts through the pie’s creaminess.
Herbed Couscous:
Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs offers a light and fluffy side option, perfect for scooping up any filling that spills over.
Crisp Apple Tart:
For dessert, a warm apple tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream completes the meal, combining sweet and tart elements that linger in the memory.

Make Ahead Options

Mary Berry’s Chicken And Leek Pie is ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by sautéing the chicken and leeks, making the creamy sauce, and then refrigerating it tightly covered. To maintain the flavors and prevent the pastry from becoming soggy, assemble the pie just before baking. If you prefer to have everything ready, you can also roll out the pastry and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, spoon the chilled filling into the pastry, brush with a beaten egg, and pop it in the oven for that golden finish. Enjoy the ease of a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken And Leek Pie

Fridge: Store leftover Chicken And Leek Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Freezer: Freeze the pie before baking for optimal freshness. Wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap for up to 2 months. Simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating: If reheating individual slices, use the oven for best results. Wrap slices in foil and heat at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes to maintain the crust’s flakiness.

Make-Ahead Tip: The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Assemble the pie right before baking for a freshly baked experience!

Expert Tips for Chicken And Leek Pie

Perfectly Flaky Crust: Allow the filling to cool slightly before adding it to the pastry; this helps to keep the crust from getting soggy.
Don’t Rush the Roux: When making the creamy sauce, ensure you cook the flour in the butter for at least a minute to get rid of the raw taste and achieve a rich flavor.
Season Generously: Taste your filling before sealing the pie; the nice balance of flavors will elevate your Chicken And Leek Pie, making it even more delicious.
Mind the Pastry: Keep your puff pastry cold until it’s time to bake; this helps the layers puff up beautifully as it cooks.
Watch the Baking Time: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your pie and take it out when it’s golden brown and fragrant for the best result.

Chicken And Leek Pie Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe; your taste buds will thank you for it!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with mushrooms and add more leeks, plus other veggies like carrots or peas for a hearty filling. The earthy mushrooms complement the creamy sauce beautifully, making it surprisingly satisfying.
Turkey Twist: Swap chicken for turkey for a delightful twist, especially fitting during the holidays. This variation adds a slightly richer flavor while keeping the comforting essence intact.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute plain flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch without losing too much creaminess. This way, those with dietary restrictions can also enjoy this delightful pie.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the filling for a fragrant boost. The aromatic herbs deepen the flavor and elevate the comforting profile of the pie.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for those who crave some heat. The subtle spice adds an exciting edge to each creamy bite!
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or Gruyère, into the filling before assembling. The melted cheese brings an additional layer of richness and flavor that is incredibly comforting.
Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavors with a little lemon zest in the creamy sauce. It elevates the dish with a fresh, zesty note that balances the richness.
Mixed Meat Medley: Combine different meats, such as chicken, turkey, and ham, for a unique and flavorful filling. Each bite will be a taste adventure, providing a satisfying experience for meat lovers.

Feel free to explore these variations and make this Chicken And Leek Pie your own! If you’re looking for an easy way to mix things up, consider trying it with some fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a lovely balance!

Chicken And Leek Pie

Chicken And Leek Pie Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when choosing leeks?
When selecting leeks, look for firm, straight stalks with vibrant green tops. The white portion should be clean and free of dark spots or wrinkles. Make sure to choose leeks that feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness. Always clean them thoroughly, as soil can accumulate between their layers.

How should I store leftover Chicken And Leek Pie?
Store any leftover Chicken And Leek Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes until thoroughly warmed. This method preserves the crust’s flakiness and the filling’s deliciousness.

Can I freeze Chicken And Leek Pie, and how?
Absolutely! For optimal freshness, freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe dish. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding about 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time for even cooking throughout.

What if my chicken is overcooked when making the filling?
If your chicken appears overcooked when you start to assemble the pie, don’t worry! Just be mindful during cooking; remember that the chicken will continue to cook in the oven. For best results, use chicken thighs as they stay juicy—if you find that the chicken is slightly dry, mix in a bit of cream or stock to moisten it before adding to the pie.

Is this Chicken And Leek Pie suitable for special diets?
If you or anyone in your family has dietary restrictions, this Chicken And Leek Pie can be easily modified. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a medley of vegetables. Also, gluten-free flour can be used to make the roux and ensure the puff pastry is suitable for those with gluten intolerance. Always check your stock and cream for any allergens as well!

How can I enhance the flavors of the Chicken And Leek Pie?
To elevate your Chicken And Leek Pie, consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the filling. You can also add a splash of white wine to the creamy sauce for a deeper flavor profile. Additionally, a pinch of nutmeg can add warmth, while a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving will brighten the dish beautifully.