Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken with earthy mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s the type of pie that provides warmth and satisfaction, perfect for cozy family dinners or a special occasion. The Hairy Bikers, a beloved British duo known for their rustic and delicious cooking style, have perfected this recipe, which features succulent chicken breast or thigh meat paired with mushrooms, herbs, and a creamy sauce, all encased in a golden, buttery pastry.

What makes this dish stand out is not just its flavor but its versatility. The filling can be prepared in advance, and the pie can be baked just before serving, making it a great option for meal prepping or for a dinner that doesn’t require last-minute attention. It is the ideal combination of savory ingredients, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy classic comfort food with a twist.

Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make this mouthwatering pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken: About 600g of chicken breast or thighs (boneless and skinless). Chicken thighs are often preferred due to their richer flavor and juiciness.
2. Mushrooms: 200g of button mushrooms or chestnut mushrooms, sliced thinly. Mushrooms add depth and umami to the pie.
3. Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped. This adds sweetness and a base of flavor to the filling.
4. Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic enhances the savory profile of the dish.
5. Flour: 2 tablespoons of plain flour to thicken the sauce.
6. Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables and creating the sauce base.
7. Cream: 200ml of double cream. The cream makes the filling rich and indulgent.
8. Stock: 250ml of chicken stock (homemade or store-bought). The stock adds richness and flavor to the filling.
9. Thyme: A few sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme for aromatic seasoning.
10. Pastry: 1 pack of ready-made shortcrust or puff pastry. Shortcrust provides a sturdy base, while puff pastry will give you a flakier, lighter top.
11. Egg: 1 egg, beaten, for glazing the pastry.
12. Salt and Pepper: To taste for seasoning.

Equipment Needed

Making the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie requires a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large Pan: A frying or sauté pan for cooking the chicken, mushrooms, and making the sauce.
• Pie Dish: A 9-inch pie dish is typically used for this recipe, though you can opt for individual ramekins for single servings.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the pastry.
• Pastry Brush: To glaze the pastry with the egg wash.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping the chicken, vegetables, and mushrooms.
• Chopping Board: A stable surface for chopping all the ingredients.
• Bowls: For preparing and mixing the ingredients as needed.

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

Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to making this delicious pie:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by prepping the chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Slice the mushrooms thinly, chop the onion finely, and mince the garlic.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a little oil in your large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add a little more butter. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown.
4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually add the chicken stock while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens, add the cream and thyme. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Season with salt and pepper, and stir everything together. Let it simmer for a few minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
6. Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish. You’ll need a base and a lid for the pie. If you’re using shortcrust pastry, roll out enough for the base and a little extra for the top. For puff pastry, you may only need enough for the top layer.
7. Assemble the Pie: Place the pastry base into your pie dish and trim any excess. Pour the creamy chicken and mushroom filling into the pastry base. Then, place the pastry lid on top, pressing the edges together to seal the pie. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
8. Egg Wash: Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish when baked. You can also make a small slit in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
9. Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once the pie is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with some steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal!

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

To ensure your Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Using chicken thighs gives the pie a richer, more tender filling, while chicken breasts can be leaner. Choose according to your preference for juiciness.
• Thickening the Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, you can mix a little more flour with cold water and stir it in to thicken. Alternatively, cook the sauce a little longer to allow it to reduce and thicken naturally.
• Flavor Boosters: Fresh thyme is a classic herb for this pie, but you could also experiment with rosemary, tarragon, or even a little nutmeg for extra flavor. A splash of white wine or sherry can also be added to the sauce for a more complex taste.
• Pastry Tips: If you want an extra-crispy pastry top, consider using puff pastry instead of shortcrust. For a rustic look, you can also leave the edges of the pastry exposed or make a lattice pattern.
• Make-Ahead: This pie can be made in advance! Prepare the filling and assemble the pie, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. It can also be frozen before baking for a future meal.

The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie is the perfect comfort food – rich, hearty, and absolutely satisfying. With simple ingredients, a straightforward process, and a few key tips, you can create this delicious dish that will impress your family and friends.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this pie is bound to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and enjoy a slice of this culinary warmth right from your oven!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie recipe is a delightful, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy filling-all encased in golden, flaky pastry.

But what if you want to add a personal touch or try a new flavor profile?

Here are a few simple twists to make this classic dish even more exciting:

1. Add Bacon For A Smokier Flavor

For those who love a bit of smokiness, try adding crispy bacon or pancetta to the filling. The bacon will bring an additional savory depth and richness, complementing the creamy chicken and mushrooms. Simply fry the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces and stir it into the sauce before filling the pie.

2. Experiment With Different Mushrooms

While the original recipe uses button mushrooms, there are plenty of alternatives to explore. Try using a mixture of wild mushrooms like porcini, chestnut, or shiitake for a more intense, earthy flavor. These mushrooms not only enhance the flavor of the pie but also give it a more sophisticated, rustic feel.

3. Incorporate Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage can elevate the flavor profile of the filling. A few sprigs of thyme or a dash of rosemary can bring a fragrant, herby essence to the dish. These herbs pair beautifully with both chicken and mushrooms, giving the filling a more complex, aromatic character.

4. Swap Cream For Crème Fraîche Or Sour Cream

If you’re looking for a slightly tangy twist, substitute the heavy cream with crème fraîche or sour cream. These ingredients will not only add a bit of acidity to cut through the richness but also provide a creamier texture, making the pie filling even more indulgent.

5. Use A Shortcrust And Puff Pastry Combo

Instead of sticking to one type of pastry, why not mix it up?

Use shortcrust pastry for the base of the pie to achieve a sturdy, crumbly bottom, while puff pastry on top gives it a beautifully light, flaky finish. The combination of textures creates a delightful contrast that’s sure to impress.

6. Add A Touch Of White Wine

For an extra layer of flavor, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine after cooking the chicken and mushrooms. This adds a touch of acidity and depth, making the pie filling even more savory. Just be sure to let the wine cook down so the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind only the concentrated flavor.

By making these simple tweaks, you can customize the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie to suit your personal preferences and surprise your taste buds with new textures and flavors!

How To Properly Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a batch of the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie and find yourself with leftovers, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh and delicious for later meals. Here’s how to store it correctly:

1. Cooling Before Storing

Allow the pie to cool completely before storing it. If you place a hot pie in the fridge, it can raise the temperature of your refrigerator, potentially causing bacteria to grow on other foods. Let the pie sit at room temperature for no more than two hours before wrapping it up for storage.

2. Refrigerating Leftovers

Once the pie has cooled, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to eat the leftovers within this timeframe, keeping the pie in the fridge is the most convenient option.

3. Freezing For Later

If you want to keep the pie for a longer period, freezing it is a great option. To freeze, slice the pie into individual portions for easy reheating.

Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat it thoroughly in the oven.

4. Reheating The Pie

To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until the pastry is crispy and the filling is hot. If you’re reheating individual portions, they may only need 10-15 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.

With these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your Chicken and Mushroom Pie leftovers as if they were freshly made!

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

The rich, creamy nature of the Chicken and Mushroom Pie makes it a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside the pie:

1. A Crisp Green Salad

A fresh green salad with a light, tangy dressing offers a nice contrast to the richness of the pie. Consider a salad with mixed greens, arugula, or baby spinach, and add a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, and honey. The acidity of the dressing will balance the creaminess of the pie and cleanse the palate between bites.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes make a lovely side. Their natural sweetness and slightly caramelized edges are the perfect counterpoint to the savory pie filling. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs, then roast in the oven until golden and tender.

3. Mashed Potatoes

For a comforting, hearty addition, serve the pie with a side of buttery mashed potatoes. The creamy, smooth texture of the mashed potatoes works well with the pie’s filling, and their mild flavor complements the chicken and mushrooms perfectly.

4. Steamed Greens

Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a light and healthy side to balance the richness of the pie. Toss them with a little butter, garlic, and lemon juice for added flavor.

5. Garlic Bread

For a more indulgent option, serve the pie with crispy garlic bread. The garlic and butter infuse the bread with rich flavor, which works beautifully with the creamy, savory pie filling.

These sides add variety and texture, making your meal even more enjoyable. Whether you’re after something light and fresh or rich and comforting, there’s a side dish to complement your Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie.

Conclusion

The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a comforting classic that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. By experimenting with ingredients like bacon, wild mushrooms, and fresh herbs, you can add a personal twist to the dish while maintaining its beloved flavors.

Proper storage ensures that leftovers remain fresh and delicious, and pairing the pie with a selection of sides enhances the overall meal, making it even more satisfying. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pie is sure to delight and can easily be tailored to suit your unique culinary style.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Mushroom Pie?

The main ingredients for the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie include chicken breasts or thighs, fresh mushrooms (typically chestnut or button mushrooms), onions, garlic, chicken stock, double cream, and shortcrust or puff pastry. The recipe also calls for seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme or parsley to enhance the flavors.

Can I Substitute The Chicken For Another Protein In The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins like turkey, pork, or even vegetarian alternatives such as tofu or tempeh. For turkey or pork, ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly and cut into bite-sized pieces. For vegetarian options, you may want to add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein to maintain the pie’s rich texture and flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Make The Hairy Bikers’ Chicken And Mushroom Pie?

The preparation and cooking time for the Hairy Bikers’ Chicken and Mushroom Pie is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes around 30 minutes for preparing the filling (cooking the chicken, mushrooms, and other ingredients) and an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour for baking the pie in the oven until golden and crisp. The total time may vary depending on your kitchen equipment and experience level.