Mary Berry’s Perfect Chicken and Mushroom Pie

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty Mary Berry chicken and mushroom pie. This recipe is inspired by the warmth and joy that Mary Berry brings to her cooking, combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a golden puff pastry crust. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a cozy meal to warm you up from the inside out. The total cooking time is approximately 1 hour, and this recipe will serve about 6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a gathering of friends.

Why You’ll Be Glad You Tried This Recipe

Here are some bullet points on why trying the Mary Berry chicken and mushroom pie recipe will be a delightful experience:

Comfort Food at Its Best: The creamy, savory filling paired with flaky puff pastry offers the ultimate comfort food experience.

Simple Ingredients, Exquisite Taste: Utilizing basic ingredients, this recipe turns everyday items into a gourmet meal.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this pie fits right in and impresses every time.

Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or make it vegetarian.

Leftover Friendly: The pie reheats beautifully, making it a practical option for enjoying delicious leftovers.

Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by adults and children alike, it’s a guaranteed hit for satisfying diverse tastes.

How To Make Mary Berry Chicken and Mushroom Pie Recipe Overview

This chicken and mushroom pie features a creamy, savory filling encased in a flaky, buttery puff pastry. The combination of gently cooked chicken, flavorful mushrooms, and a rich sauce made from chicken stock and milk, thickened with flour and enriched with butter, creates a filling that is both comforting and indulgent. The puff pastry topping adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly. Preparing this pie takes about 30 minutes, with another 30 minutes for baking, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Ingredients

• Succulent Chicken: 4 cups, previously cooked and lovingly diced
• Whisper of Flour: 3 tablespoons, to bind and thicken the luxurious sauce
• Golden Butter: 3 heaping tablespoons, for that rich, silky texture
• Earthy Delights: 3 cups of fresh mushrooms, finely sliced
• Splash of Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, just enough to sauté
• Homemade Essence: 2 cups of rich chicken stock, for depth of flavor
• Velvety Milk: 3/4 cup, to smooth out the filling
• Glistening Touch: 1 large egg, beaten, to brush on the pastry for a golden shine
• Chopped Wisdom: 1 large onion, finely diced to meld seamlessly
• Flaky Cover: 1 large sheet of puff pastry, ready to envelop the treasure within
• Season’s Whisper: A pinch of salt, a grind of pepper, and a sprinkle of thyme, all adjusted to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Prepare the filling: Heat the oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the butter and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are soft.
3. Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir until the vegetables are coated. Gradually pour in the chicken stock and milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Combine the chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet, mix well, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble the pie: Pour the filling into a deep pie dish. Cover with the puff pastry sheet, trimming any excess. Seal the edges and brush the top with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
6. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
7. Rest and serve: Let the pie stand for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.

Also Try: Mary Berry Cheese and Onion Pie Recipe

Nutritional Value

Per serving, this pie approximately contains:

Calories: 450

Protein: 26g

Carbohydrates: 35g

Fat: 25g

Cholesterol: 85mg

Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

Can I use leftover roast chicken for this recipe?

Yes, leftover roast chicken is excellent for this pie as it adds a rich flavor. It’s a great way to use up any leftovers from a previous meal. Just dice the chicken up and follow the recipe as usual. The added seasoning from the roast will enhance the overall taste of your pie.

What kind of mushrooms work best in this pie?

For the best results, I recommend using a mix of button and cremini mushrooms due to their firm texture and mild flavor, which complement the creamy filling well. However, you can use any mushrooms you like. Shiitake or portobello also make delicious alternatives that add depth to the pie’s flavor profile.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the filling and even assemble the pie a day ahead. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. This can be a great time-saver if you’re planning to serve the pie for a special occasion or a family dinner. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if you start with a chilled pie.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for the chicken?

To make a vegetarian version of this pie, replace the chicken with a hearty mix of additional mushrooms, carrots, and peas, or even tofu for added protein. These ingredients blend well with the creamy sauce and make a filling meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or texture.

Where does chicken and mushroom pie originate?

Chicken and mushroom pie has its roots in British cuisine. It is a classic dish beloved across the United Kingdom. The combination of chicken and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, topped with pastry, embodies traditional British comfort food. This pie reflects the simplicity and heartiness characteristic of the British culinary approach, making it a staple in homes and local pubs alike.

Conclusion

This Mary Berry chicken and mushroom pie is a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create a dish full of deep, comforting flavors. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand at a savory pie for the first time, this recipe promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!