Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie Recipe

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie is a classic British comfort dish created by the famous culinary duo, the Hairy Bikers (Si King and Dave Myers). This savory pie is a delightful blend of tender chicken and smoky ham in a creamy, rich sauce, all encased in a buttery, golden pastry. It’s the kind of hearty, satisfying meal perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends, and it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or ham.

The Hairy Bikers are known for their approachable and mouth-watering recipes, and their take on the traditional chicken and ham pie adds a little extra flair with a deep, flavorful filling. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, their step-by-step instructions make it easy to create this mouth-watering pie.

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make this scrumptious Chicken and Ham Pie, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Filling

• 600g (1.3 lbs) skinless chicken breast or thigh (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 200g (7 oz) ham (preferably leftover ham or gammon, cut into chunks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (for frying)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 large carrot (peeled and diced)
• 1 stick of celery (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons plain flour (to thicken the sauce)
• 500ml (2 cups) chicken stock (preferably homemade or low-salt)
• 100ml (½ cup) double cream (for richness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a subtle kick)
• Fresh thyme or mixed herbs (a small handful, finely chopped)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For The Pastry

• 500g (1 lb) ready-made puff pastry (or shortcrust if preferred)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

Equipment Needed

Before you get started, make sure you have these kitchen tools on hand:

• Large frying pan or skillet (for frying the vegetables and chicken)
• Pie dish (an 8-inch round dish should work well)
• Rolling pin (for rolling out the pastry)
• Sharp knife (for chopping the ingredients)
• Chopping board
• Pastry brush (for applying the egg wash)
• Small bowl (for the egg wash)
• Large spoon (for stirring the filling)

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie

Here’s how you can make this delicious chicken and ham pie from start to finish:

1. Prepare The Filling

   • Heat the olive oil or butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
   • Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well. This will help thicken the filling later. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.

2. Add The Chicken And Ham

   • Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the pan and stir well, cooking for about 5 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned.
   • Stir in the ham, then pour in the chicken stock. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.

3. Finish The Filling

   • Stir in the cream and Dijon mustard for richness and flavor. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.
   • Once the filling is done, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the pastry.

4. Prepare The Pastry

   • Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to about the thickness of a £1 coin. You’ll need two pieces-one for the bottom of the pie and one for the top.
   • Grease your pie dish and line it with one layer of the pastry, trimming the edges as necessary.

5. Assemble The Pie

   • Spoon the cooled chicken and ham filling into the pie dish, spreading it evenly.
   • Place the second sheet of pastry over the top and trim any excess. Crimp the edges to seal the pie, and then make a small slit in the center to allow steam to escape while it bakes.
   • Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden finish.

6. Bake The Pie

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
   • Once done, allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To ensure your Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie turns out perfectly, here are a few tips:

1. Use Leftover Ham: If you’ve got leftover Christmas ham or gammon, it’s a fantastic way to make use of it in this pie. The smoky flavor from the ham adds an extra depth to the dish.
2. Add Veggies: Feel free to sneak in other vegetables like peas, leeks, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
3. Pastry Tips: If you want to make your pie extra golden and flaky, use a combination of puff pastry for the top and shortcrust for the base. The shortcrust will hold up better against the filling’s moisture.
4. Creamy Filling: For an even richer filling, consider adding a splash of white wine or a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, which will enhance the flavor profile with a hint of acidity and sharpness.
5. Chill the Pie: After assembling the pie, you can chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps to firm up the pastry and results in a crisper base.
6. Make Ahead: You can make the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before assembling the pie. This allows the flavors to develop further.

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie is the epitome of comfort food-delicious, hearty, and perfect for a family meal or gathering. With its tender chicken, smoky ham, creamy sauce, and crisp pastry, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. The recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or even different types of cheese to make it your own.

With the Hairy Bikers’ easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be able to serve up a pie that rivals the best of British comfort food!

Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every bite!

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie is a comforting classic, beloved for its rich and hearty filling combined with a flaky pastry top. While the original recipe is delicious as is, there are several fun and flavorful twists you can try to make it uniquely yours. These twists don’t just add variety, but can elevate the flavors and textures, making the pie a memorable dish every time.

1. Add Some Veggies: While the original recipe uses chicken and ham as the main protein, consider adding a mix of vegetables for added texture and nutrition. Chopped carrots, peas, and leeks are excellent choices that add sweetness and a bit of crunch. If you prefer something a bit more robust, root vegetables like parsnips or turnips would complement the savory filling beautifully.
2. Herb Variations: The Hairy Bikers’ recipe uses thyme, but you can experiment with different herbs to bring a fresh twist. Try rosemary for a piney aroma, or sage for an earthy richness. Fresh parsley, tarragon, or a sprinkle of oregano can also provide an aromatic punch. You could even mix and match your favorite herbs for a more complex flavor profile.
3. Mushrooms and Garlic: To deepen the savory flavors, sauté some mushrooms and garlic before adding them to the filling. The earthy, umami flavor of the mushrooms pairs beautifully with the chicken and ham, and the garlic adds an extra layer of flavor that melds wonderfully with the cream sauce.
4. Cheese It Up: Adding cheese to the filling or sprinkling it on top of the pie before baking can make the crust even more irresistible. Gruyère or cheddar would add a sharp, nutty flavor to balance the richness of the chicken and ham. For a more indulgent twist, try a creamy Brie or Camembert to bring a luxurious, gooey texture.
5. Swap the Pastry: The Hairy Bikers’ recipe calls for a traditional puff pastry topping, but you could switch it up with a shortcrust pastry for a denser, crunchier texture. If you’re looking for something gluten-free, you can experiment with gluten-free puff pastry or even a mashed potato topping for a comforting twist.
6. Mustard or Wine: Add a splash of mustard to the filling to give it a tangy contrast, or a touch of white wine to deglaze the pan before making the sauce. A bit of Dijon or whole grain mustard can help cut through the richness of the cream, while white wine adds a subtle depth of flavor.
7. Smoked Ham or Bacon: While regular ham works wonderfully, smoked ham or crispy bacon can elevate the flavor profile of the dish. The smoky, salty notes from these ingredients will infuse the filling with an irresistible depth.

These variations are simple to implement and will keep the dish exciting each time you prepare it. Whether you’re looking to try something new or use up ingredients you already have on hand, these twists will keep the beloved chicken and ham pie fresh and flavorful.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Chicken and Ham Pie, like many savory pies, makes for fantastic leftovers. But to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here’s a guide to storing your pie the right way:

1. Cool the Pie Properly: Before storing, it’s essential to let your pie cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming inside the container, which can make the crust soggy and the filling less appetizing. Avoid putting the hot pie straight into the fridge, as it can raise the temperature inside the fridge and potentially spoil other food.
2. Use an Airtight Container: Once cooled, store your pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This prevents air from getting in and keeps the pie from drying out or absorbing any strong odors from other foods in the fridge.
3. Refrigeration: Leftover pie should be refrigerated if you plan on eating it within the next few days (2-3 days maximum). It’s important to refrigerate the pie as soon as it has cooled, especially if it contains meat or dairy, to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you have more pie than you can eat in a few days, freezing is a great option. Wrap the pie tightly in several layers of foil and plastic wrap, or place it in a freezer-safe container. When storing pies in the freezer, it’s best to freeze them whole or in individual slices. Be sure to label the packaging with the date, so you can keep track of when you stored it. Frozen pies can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
5. Reheating Tips: To enjoy your leftover pie, you can reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispy pastry. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), and bake the pie for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the filling is hot throughout. If you’re in a rush, you can use a microwave, but the pastry won’t retain its crispiness.

By following these storage tips, your leftovers will remain fresh, and you’ll be able to enjoy the pie as much as you did the first time around!

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie?

The rich, comforting nature of Chicken and Ham Pie means it pairs wonderfully with a range of sides. The key is to balance out the richness of the pie with something fresh, light, or texturally different. Here are a few ideas for side dishes that complement the pie beautifully:

1. Green Vegetables: A simple green vegetable side such as steamed broccoli, green beans, or peas can lighten the meal and add a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, sauté spinach with a touch of garlic or try roasted Brussels sprouts for a crispy texture that balances the creamy filling of the pie.
2. Mashed Potatoes: If you’re craving more comfort, a side of mashed potatoes works wonders with the pie. The smoothness of the potatoes can help balance the richness of the pie’s filling. For added flavor, try adding a dollop of butter, cream cheese, or even roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes.
3. Salads: A fresh, vibrant salad can provide a welcome contrast to the richness of the pie. A mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing bite, while a classic coleslaw will give a creamy crunch that complements the pie’s texture.
4. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: For a more indulgent side, crispy roasted potatoes are a perfect accompaniment. The crispy skin and soft inside provide a wonderful contrast to the flaky pastry, and the savory flavors of the potatoes pair perfectly with the rich filling of the pie.
5. Apple Sauce or Chutney: To add a touch of sweetness, serve your pie with some homemade apple sauce or chutney. The sweet tang will help cut through the creaminess of the filling and add an extra layer of complexity to the meal.
6. Bread: A crusty baguette or some fresh, warm bread can be great for soaking up any extra sauce left in the pie dish. A slice of sourdough would work particularly well, as its slight tanginess contrasts nicely with the richness of the pie.
7. Gravy: For a truly indulgent experience, serve your pie with a side of gravy. You could make a simple chicken gravy or a rich, creamy white gravy, which will add even more depth to the overall flavor of the dish.

These side dishes are not only delicious but also help to enhance the flavors of the Chicken and Ham Pie, making your meal even more satisfying and complete.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie is a comforting, versatile dish that can be customized in countless ways to suit your tastes. By experimenting with simple twists like adding extra veggies, herbs, or cheese, you can keep the pie exciting and fresh every time you make it.

Proper storage techniques will ensure that your leftovers stay just as tasty as the original pie, and pairing the dish with a variety of complementary sides will make for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or reheating it the next day, Chicken and Ham Pie is sure to be a beloved favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie?

To make the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie, you will need chicken breasts or thighs, cooked ham, puff pastry, butter, flour, milk, double cream, onion, garlic, mustard, parsley, and seasoning such as salt and pepper. You’ll also need a bit of stock to create a creamy filling.

Can I Substitute Any Ingredients In The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie Recipe?

Yes, you can make a few substitutions in the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie. For example, you can use chicken stock instead of vegetable stock, swap the chicken for turkey, or try a different type of ham such as prosciutto or bacon. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, you can replace the meat with mushrooms or a mixture of vegetables, though this will change the overall flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Cook The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Ham Pie?

The preparation time for the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Ham Pie is approximately 30-40 minutes, while the baking time is around 30-35 minutes at 200°C (180°C fan), or 400°F (350°F fan). The total time from start to finish is about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your familiarity with the recipe and how long you take to assemble the pie.