Delicious Chicken and Ham Pie Recipe: A Hearty Delight for Every Food Lover

Chicken and ham pie is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty and delicious pie combines tender chicken, savory ham, and a rich, creamy sauce all encased in a flaky pastry crust. It is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of flavors and textures in this pie creates a truly satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more. So let's dive into the world of chicken and ham pie and discover how to create this delightful dish!

Ingredients required for Chicken and Ham Pie

To make a delicious chicken and ham pie, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken: 500 grams of boneless chicken breast or thigh meat, diced into small pieces.

2. Ham: 200 grams of cooked ham, chopped into small cubes.

3. Pastry: 2 sheets of ready-made puff pastry or shortcrust pastry.

4. Onion: 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped.

5. Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced.

6. Carrots: 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and diced.

7. Peas: 100 grams of frozen peas.

8. Butter: 2 tablespoons of butter for sautéing the vegetables.

9. Flour: 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour for thickening the sauce.

10. Chicken stock: 250 ml of chicken stock for the sauce.

11. Milk: 150 ml of milk for the creamy filling.

12. Salt and pepper: To taste.

These ingredients can be easily found in your local grocery store or supermarket, making it convenient to prepare this hearty dish at home.

Step-by-step instructions on how to make Chicken and Ham Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken and ham and cook until browned.

3. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pan and sauté until vegetables are tender.

4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly.

5. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

6. Add thyme, salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices for flavor.

7. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

8. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

9. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and line a pie dish with it.

10. Pour the chicken and ham filling into the dish, spreading it evenly.

11. Cover the filling with another sheet of puff pastry, sealing the edges by pressing them together with a fork.

12. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

13. Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.

14. Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips during cooking.

15. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.

16. Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Chicken and Ham Pie that will surely satisfy your taste buds!

Tips and variations for Chicken and Ham Pie

Tips and Variations for Chicken and Ham Pie:

1. Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value of your pie by adding a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, mushrooms, or leeks. These additions not only provide extra flavor but also contribute to a well-balanced meal.

2. Experiment with herbs and spices: To elevate the taste of your chicken and ham pie, try adding different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, or sage can add a fragrant aroma, while paprika or chili powder can give it a subtle kick.

3. Use different cheeses: For cheese lovers, consider incorporating different types of cheese into your pie. Cheddar or Gruyere can provide a rich and creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a sharp and nutty flavor.

4. Make it gluten-free: If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily make this pie gluten-free by using gluten-free pastry dough or substituting flour with alternative options like almond flour or cornstarch.

5. Try different meats: While chicken and ham are classic choices for this pie, feel free to experiment with other meats such as turkey or bacon to create unique flavor combinations.

6. Mini pies for individual servings: Instead of making one large pie, consider making individual-sized pies using ramekins or muffin tins. This allows for easy portion control and is perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.

Remember, these tips are meant to inspire creativity in the kitchen. Feel free to adapt the recipe according to your preferences and dietary needs while keeping the essence of this delicious dish intact!

Serving suggestions and accompaniments for Chicken and Ham Pie

Chicken and Ham Pie is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions and accompaniments to enhance your dining experience:

1. Salad: Serve the pie alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pie.

2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent accompaniment to Chicken and Ham Pie. The smooth texture of the potatoes complements the hearty filling, creating a comforting combination.

3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed vegetables such as carrots, peas, and broccoli add color, nutrition, and a touch of freshness to the meal. They also provide a balanced contrast to the savory flavors of the pie.

4. Cranberry Sauce: For a touch of sweetness, serve Chicken and Ham Pie with cranberry sauce. The tartness of the sauce cuts through the richness of the meat, adding depth to each bite.

5. Gravy: A drizzle of warm gravy over the pie can take it to another level of indulgence. The savory gravy enhances the flavors and adds moisture to every mouthful.

Remember, these are just suggestions; feel free to experiment with other sides based on your personal preferences. Whether you choose classic accompaniments or get creative with your choices, serving Chicken and Ham Pie with complementary dishes will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone satisfied.

Nutritional benefits of Chicken and Ham Pie

Chicken and Ham Pie is not only a delicious dish but also offers several nutritional benefits. It is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in our body. The chicken and ham provide high-quality protein that helps in muscle development and supports overall growth.

Additionally, this pie contains various vitamins and minerals. Chicken is rich in B vitamins such as niacin, which aids in energy production, and vitamin B6, which plays a vital role in brain development. It also provides important minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium, which are necessary for maintaining healthy blood cells, immune function, and thyroid health.

Ham adds flavor to the pie while providing additional protein and essential nutrients. It contains important vitamins like thiamine (vitamin B1) that helps convert food into energy. It also contains phosphorus, an essential mineral that supports bone health.

However, it's important to note that Chicken and Ham Pie can be high in calories due to the pastry crust. To make it healthier, opt for whole wheat or low-fat pastry options or consider using a lighter crust alternative.

Overall, when enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, Chicken and Ham Pie can be a satisfying meal that provides valuable nutrients to support your overall well-being.

In conclusion, Chicken and Ham Pie is a delightful dish that combines the goodness of chicken and ham with a flaky pastry crust. It is a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, and flavorful vegetables creates a delicious filling that will satisfy every food lover's taste buds.

The versatility of this recipe allows for various adaptations and additions to suit individual preferences. Whether you choose to add mushrooms, leeks, or different herbs and spices, the possibilities are endless. The pie can also be made with different types of pastry, such as puff pastry or shortcrust pastry, depending on personal preference.

When serving Chicken and Ham Pie, it pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. A side salad or steamed vegetables can add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the pie. Mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables make excellent choices as well.

From a nutritional standpoint, Chicken and Ham Pie provides a good source of protein from the chicken and ham. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used in the filling. However, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its higher fat content from the butter or lard used in the pastry.

Overall, Chicken and Ham Pie is a classic dish that never fails to impress. Its delicious flavors, comforting textures, and adaptability make it a favorite among food lovers everywhere. So why not give this recipe a try? Indulge in this hearty delight that celebrates freshness in every bite!