James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe

James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a classic, hearty British dish that perfectly combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all enveloped in a golden, flaky pie crust. This dish is celebrated for its rich flavors, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or a satisfying weekend treat.

James Martin, a renowned British chef, is known for his ability to elevate traditional dishes with modern techniques and ingredients, and this pie is no exception. The beauty of the recipe lies in its balance of simplicity and flavor, allowing the chicken and mushrooms to shine while the creamy filling offers the ultimate indulgence.

The pie is perfect for those who love a classic chicken pie but want something a little more refined. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort, with a savory filling that’s both rich and light at the same time. The result is a golden, golden-brown crust that’s flaky and crisp, giving way to a rich, savory interior that is simply irresistible.

James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Filling

• 500g chicken breast or thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 250g chestnut mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 100ml white wine (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
• 300ml chicken stock (or homemade, if possible)
• 200ml double cream (for richness)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon plain flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For The Pie Crust

• 1 pack of ready-made puff pastry (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)

Optional Garnishes And Extras

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Extra thyme or rosemary (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

To prepare James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie, you will need the following equipment:

• Large frying pan/skillet: For sautéing the chicken, mushrooms, and vegetables.
• Saucepan: For making the creamy sauce.
• Pie dish: A round, shallow dish to assemble and bake the pie.
• Rolling pin: If using homemade puff pastry, a rolling pin will be needed to roll out the dough.
• Pastry brush: To apply the egg wash for a golden finish.
• Sharp knife: For chopping the chicken and vegetables.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring the filling as it cooks.
• Measuring spoons and cups: To ensure accurate measurements of the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie

1. Prepare The Chicken And Vegetables

• Dice the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a more rustic pie, you can shred the chicken once cooked.
• Chop the vegetables: Finely chop the onion and garlic, and slice the mushrooms.

2. Cook The Filling

• Cook the chicken: Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
• Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pan, add a bit more butter if needed. Add the chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
• Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.

3. Make The Sauce

• Create a roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat. Cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flour to absorb the moisture and create a roux.
• Add the liquid: Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly, to deglaze the pan and lift any browned bits off the bottom. Let it reduce slightly. Then, add the chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer.
• Add cream: Stir in the double cream and simmer the sauce for 5 minutes until thickened to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble The Pie

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Combine the chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Prepare the pie dish: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish, leaving enough overhang to fold over the edges.
• Fill the pie: Spoon the creamy chicken and mushroom filling into the pie dish, smoothing it out evenly.
• Top with pastry: Cover the filling with the rolled-out pastry. Trim any excess pastry, then crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Make a small slit in the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Bake The Pie

• Egg wash: Brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden sheen.
• Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.

6. Serve

• Once baked, let the pie rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use a mix of mushrooms: While chestnut mushrooms are typically used, feel free to experiment with other types like button mushrooms, shiitake, or porcini for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Use leftover chicken: If you have leftover roast chicken, you can use that instead of cooking fresh chicken. Just add it toward the end of the sauce-making process to heat through.
• Homemade pastry: If you prefer making your own puff pastry, you can absolutely do so, but it’s an additional time commitment. Store-bought pastry works perfectly well in this recipe.
• Adjust the filling: If you prefer a thicker or thinner filling, simply adjust the amount of cream or stock to suit your preference.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Be sure to cook the chicken just until it’s done-overcooking it will make it dry and less tender in the pie.

James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s ideal for any occasion. It combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce encased in a perfectly flaky crust.

With its easy-to-follow recipe and potential for customization, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or serving it to guests, this chicken and mushroom pie will undoubtedly be a hit, offering both flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

Simple Twists On James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie Recipe

James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a beloved classic, known for its rich flavors, creamy filling, and buttery crust. While the recipe itself is a winner, there are a variety of ways you can give it a personal twist to enhance the taste or adapt it to suit different preferences. Here are some easy, creative variations:

1. Herb Infusion: Instead of using just traditional thyme or parsley, try incorporating a mix of herbs like tarragon, rosemary, or sage. These can bring out different earthy flavors that complement the mushrooms and chicken beautifully. Fresh herbs are always better than dried ones, but if you only have dried herbs on hand, use them sparingly.
2. Cheese Lover’s Version: Add a handful of grated cheese to the filling for an extra layer of richness. Strong cheeses such as Gruyère or mature cheddar will add a savory, tangy kick to the creamy base, enhancing both the texture and flavor. You could also experiment with blue cheese, such as Roquefort or Stilton, for a more intense flavor profile.
3. Smoky Twist: For a smoky flavor, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika or even finely diced smoked ham or pancetta to the pie filling. This will deepen the flavor and make the dish more complex, without overwhelming the subtle flavors of the chicken and mushrooms.
4. Vegetarian Variation: To make this a vegetarian option, simply swap out the chicken for more mushrooms, such as a mix of cremini, oyster, and shiitake mushrooms, or even add in some roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes. This swap will still keep the pie hearty and flavorful, making it a fantastic option for vegetarians.
5. Add Some Greens: For a pop of color and added nutritional value, fold in some spinach, kale, or peas into the filling. These greens work beautifully in the creamy sauce, and their freshness provides a great balance to the richness of the pie.
6. Spicy Option: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes or finely diced fresh chilies can bring a subtle kick to the pie. You could also try adding a teaspoon of mustard powder or Dijon mustard to the sauce for a bit of tangy spice.
7. Pie Crust Variations: Instead of using the traditional shortcrust pastry, try a puff pastry topping for a flakier, airier finish. You could also use phyllo dough for a lighter, crispier texture or even make a mashed potato topping for a twist on the classic shepherd’s pie.

By adjusting the seasoning, textures, and additional ingredients, you can elevate James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie into something uniquely your own. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of spice, make it more decadent, or opt for a vegetarian version, the options are limitless.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Properly storing leftovers from James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is essential to maintaining its flavor and texture for another day. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Cool Before Storing: Let the pie cool to room temperature before storing. This helps to prevent condensation inside the storage container, which could make the crust soggy. Aim to let the pie rest for about 30 minutes after cooking.
2. Storage Containers: Use an airtight container to store the pie. If you have a leftover whole pie, you can wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in a resealable bag or airtight container. If you’re storing individual slices, it’s best to use a container that fits the slices snugly to avoid air exposure.
3. Refrigeration: The pie can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure your fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower, as this will help slow the growth of bacteria and preserve the quality of the dish.
4. Freezing: If you have more leftovers than you can eat within a few days, consider freezing the pie. To do this, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. For individual slices, wrap each slice separately. Label the packaging with the date so you can keep track of how long it has been frozen. The pie can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. Reheating: To reheat the pie, it’s best to do so in the oven rather than the microwave to retain its crisp crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the pie or slices on a baking tray, and heat for 20-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden and crisp. If you’re reheating a frozen pie, it’s best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

By properly storing leftovers, you can enjoy this comforting dish for several more meals without sacrificing quality. Just make sure you don’t let it sit at room temperature for longer than two hours to avoid food safety issues.

What To Eat With James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie?

James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is rich, creamy, and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can turn this into a complete meal. Here are a few ideas:

1. Green Salad with Light Vinaigrette: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can cut through the richness of the pie, balancing out the heaviness. Opt for mixed greens like arugula, spinach, or watercress, and add some sliced cucumber or radishes for crunch. The tangy dressing will provide a nice contrast to the creamy filling.
2. Mashed Potatoes: While the pie already contains a pastry crust, mashed potatoes can be a wonderful side to complement its rich filling. Try mashed potatoes with a dollop of cream or a touch of garlic for extra flavor. You could also experiment with mashed sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts add a lovely earthy note to the meal. The caramelization from roasting helps bring out the natural sweetness in these veggies, making them a perfect pairing with the savory pie.
4. Buttered Peas or Beans: A classic accompaniment to pie, peas (especially garden peas) or green beans tossed in butter add a fresh and slightly sweet contrast to the richness of the pie. You could even sprinkle some fresh herbs like mint over the peas for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Crispy Garlic Bread: For those who love a little crunch, crispy garlic bread is a fantastic option. The toasted, garlicky bread provides a satisfying texture and flavor that complements the pie, especially when you dip it into the creamy sauce from the filling.
6. Cider or Light White Wine: For a drink pairing, a chilled glass of dry cider or a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay will go wonderfully with the pie. The slight acidity from these drinks helps balance the richness of the pie’s filling.
7. Coleslaw: If you’re craving a cold side, tangy coleslaw is a great option. The crunch from the cabbage and the tang from the dressing adds a nice contrast to the warm, creamy pie.

By mixing and matching sides, you can easily elevate the meal into a satisfying dinner, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.

Conclusion

James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a classic dish that’s full of flavor and comfort. With a few simple twists, you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes, whether you’re looking for a spicy kick, a cheesy addition, or a vegetarian version.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that the pie remains delicious for days to come, whether you choose to freeze it for later or enjoy it fresh from the fridge. Finally, pairing the pie with complementary sides like crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes takes this meal from satisfying to spectacular. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering, James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients Needed For James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie?

The key ingredients for James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie include chicken breasts, fresh mushrooms (usually button or chestnut), puff pastry, butter, flour, milk, cream, garlic, and a selection of herbs like thyme and parsley. The dish is also seasoned with salt and pepper for flavor.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Meat Or Vegetables In James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie?

Yes, you can modify the recipe to suit different preferences. For instance, turkey can be substituted for chicken, or you can opt for a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with additional mushrooms or other vegetables such as leeks, carrots, or spinach. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly if making substitutions.

How Long Does It Take To Cook James Martin’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie, And What Is The Best Method For Achieving A Golden, Crispy Crust?

James Martin’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to bake at 200°C (400°F). To achieve a golden, crispy crust, make sure to brush the top of the pie with a little beaten egg or milk before baking.

This will give the pastry a beautiful golden sheen when it bakes. For an even more flaky result, ensure the puff pastry is chilled before use.