Chicken Pie is a classic comfort food enjoyed worldwide for its flaky pastry, tender chicken filling, and rich, flavorful sauce. From homemade family dinners to bakery and café menus, a well-made chicken pie combines warmth, texture, and nutrition in a single dish.
This guide covers everything about chicken pie from traditional and modern recipes to serving ideas, storage tips, and packaging solutions for professional use.
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What Is Chicken Pie?
A chicken pie typically consists of a savory filling made with cooked chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, encased in either shortcrust or puff pastry. It may be served as a main meal, a snack, or as part of a café or bakery menu.
Common components include:
- Filling: Chicken pieces, peas, carrots, onions, and herbs
- Sauce: Creamy white sauce, gravy, or béchamel
- Crust: Flaky shortcrust or puff pastry
Chicken pies vary across cultures: British chicken pies often include creamy sauces; Australian or American versions may add corn, mushrooms, or cheese.
For more ideas on savory pie combinations that pair well with chicken pie, check our guide on Pie and Peas: The Ultimate Guide for Cafés and Bakeries.
Why Chicken Pie Is So Popular
Comfort and Flavor
The combination of buttery pastry and savory chicken filling is universally appealing.
Versatility
Chicken pie can be served hot or cold, as an individual portion or family-sized dish.
Nutritional Value
When balanced with vegetables, a chicken pie provides protein, fiber, and carbohydrates in a single meal.
Business-Friendly
Chicken pie is a profitable menu item for cafés, bakeries, and restaurants due to its popularity, versatility, and ease of preparation in batches.
How to Make Chicken Pie
Ingredients for Making Chicken Pie
For the Filling:
- 500g cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup cream or milk
- Salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley
For the Pastry:
- 1 sheet puff pastry or homemade shortcrust
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Making Chicken Pie
Prepare the Filling
- In a pan, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Add carrots and peas; cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add chicken stock and cream, stirring constantly.
- Add cooked chicken and season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Simmer until thickened, then cool slightly.
Prepare the Pie
- Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Roll out pastry and line a pie dish.
- Add filling and cover with top pastry layer.
- Seal edges, brush with egg wash, and cut a few slits for steam.
Bake
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until pastry is golden brown.
- Cool slightly before serving to set filling.
Variations of Chicken Pie
Classic British Chicken Pie
- Creamy filling with carrots, peas, and onions
- Shortcrust pastry
Chicken and Mushroom Pie
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor
- Use puff pastry for a flaky crust
Chicken and Leek Pie
-
Leeks replace or complement onions for a milder, sweeter taste
Mini Chicken Pies
- Serve in cupcake tins or small ramekins for individual portions
- Perfect for cafés and takeaway
For more inspiration on pie varieties, visit our guide on Pie and Potato: The Timeless Comfort Duo Every Café Should Celebrate
Serving Chicken Pie
Plating
- Serve with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, or a fresh salad
- Add gravy or sauce for extra flavor
Portioning
- Family-size pies: cut into 6–8 slices
- Individual pies: single servings for quick meals or bakery displays
Presentation Tips
- Brush top crust with egg wash for a golden finish
- Garnish with fresh parsley for visual appeal
- For takeaway, use eco-friendly pie boxes to maintain shape and freshness
Storage and Meal Prep
Refrigeration
- Store cooked pies in airtight containers for 3–4 days
- Reheat in oven to restore crispness
Freezing
- Freeze fully baked pies for up to 2 months
- Wrap in foil or airtight containers
- Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes
Prepping Ahead
- Prepare filling in advance and store
- Assemble and bake pies as needed for fresh service
Baking Tips for Perfect Chicken Pie
- Don’t overfill: Keep enough space to cover the filling with pastry
- Avoid soggy crust: Brush with egg wash and bake on a lower shelf for even cooking
- Chill pastry: Cold pastry prevents shrinking or cracking
- Even slices: Use a sharp knife and let pie cool slightly before cutting
FAQs About Chicken Pie
What is the best type of chicken for pie?
Use cooked, skinless chicken breast or thigh for tender, flavorful filling.
Can I make chicken pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare filling in advance; assemble and bake pies when ready to serve.
How do I keep the crust flaky?
Keep pastry cold, use minimal handling, and bake in a hot oven.
Can chicken pie be frozen?
Yes, fully baked pies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
What sides go well with chicken pie?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh salad, and gravy are classic accompaniments.
Conclusion
Chicken Pie is a timeless dish that delivers comfort, flavor, and versatility. Whether serving a family dinner, offering café specials, or running a bakery menu, mastering chicken pie ensures consistent quality and satisfaction. By following proper preparation, baking, and storage techniques, and using professional presentation and eco-friendly packaging, chicken pies can be enjoyed fresh, visually appealing, and delicious every time.
