Are you craving a hearty and flavorful dish that will leave you feeling satisfied? Look no further than a Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie. This classic British recipe combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and the tangy kick of Dijon mustard, all encased in a golden puff pastry crust. With its rich and creamy filling, this pie is the ultimate comfort food. In this article, we will take a closer look at this mouthwatering dish, its history, the ingredients needed, and step-by-step instructions on how to make it at home.
The History of Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie
Like many traditional British dishes, the exact origins of Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie are unclear. However, it is believed to have been inspired by the popular Chicken & Mushroom Pie, which has been enjoyed in Britain for centuries. The addition of spring onions and Dijon mustard adds a unique twist to the classic recipe, elevating the flavors and creating a truly delicious combination.
Ingredients for Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie
To create this delectable dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 75g smoked pancetta, finely chopped
- 6-8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 300g mushrooms, quartered
- 25g unsalted butter
- 200g spring onions, sliced, white and green parts separated
- 3 tbsp plain flour, plus extra for dusting
- 800ml chicken stock
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- Small handful of thyme
- 150g fresh or frozen peas
- 150ml double cream
- 500g block puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten
- Steamed green veg and new potatoes, to serve
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie
Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let's dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious pie:
Heat the oil in a flameproof casserole over a medium-high heat and fry the pancetta until browned and crisp, about 5-7 mins. Remove to a bowl using a slotted spoon.
Tip the chicken into the pan, season well and fry for 5-7 mins until browned all over. Remove to the bowl with the pancetta.
Fry the mushrooms in the pan for 7-8 mins until browned and crisp, then stir in the butter, the white parts of the spring onions, and the flour. Cook for a few minutes more until the spring onions have softened slightly.
Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring well after each addition. Bring to a simmer and mix in the mustard, bay leaves, nutmeg, mustard powder, and thyme.
Return the chicken and pancetta to the pan. Simmer for 20-25 mins until the mixture has reduced slightly and thickened.
Stir in the peas, double cream, and green parts of the spring onions. Season well and tip into an 18 x 28cm pie dish, then leave to cool for 10-15 mins.
Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Lightly dust a clean work surface with flour, then roll the pastry out to roughly the thickness of a £1 coin. Brush the edges of the pie dish with some of the beaten egg, lay the pastry on top, and trim to fit.
Cut a steam hole in the middle of the pastry. Once completely cool, the pie can be covered and frozen for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Brush the pastry all over with the remaining beaten egg and bake for 30-40 mins until piping hot and deeply golden.
Serve the Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie with steamed green vegetables and new potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations for Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie
- If you prefer a vegetarian version of this pie, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite meat alternative. The flavors of the mushrooms, spring onions, and mustard will still create a delicious filling.
- For added richness, you can sprinkle grated cheese on top of the pie before baking. Cheddar or Gruyere would be excellent choices.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the pie. Rosemary, sage, or even a pinch of chili flakes can add a unique twist to the dish.
- If you don't have puff pastry on hand, you can use shortcrust pastry as an alternative. The result will be equally delicious.
Conclusion
Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie is a classic British dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and tangy Dijon mustard. With its golden puff pastry crust, this pie is a showstopper that will impress your family and friends. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or served at a dinner party, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the irresistible flavors of Chicken, Spring Onion & Mustard Pie.