I remember the first time I made a chicken and mushroom pie. I was in my tiny kitchen, excited to try something new, and slightly intimidated by the thought of making a homemade pie crust. I’d seen people like Jamie Oliver make it look so easy, but I was sure it would be a disaster. The result? A beautifully golden, creamy pie that took less time than I’d imagined and was bursting with comforting flavors. This is why Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie from his 30-Minute Meals series became one of my go-to recipes.
This recipe is a perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, you can whip this up in no time and impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the specifics of what makes this pie such a winner!
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie 30-minute Meals Recipe
Jamie Oliver is known for making complicated dishes approachable, and this chicken and mushroom pie is no exception. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that combines juicy chicken with earthy mushrooms in a creamy sauce, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. And the best part? You can make it in just 30 minutes.
Here’s the recipe breakdown:
What You’ll Need
- 2 chicken breasts (skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 cup chestnut mushrooms (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon plain flour
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup double cream
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- Salt and pepper
Ingredients Needed
To make this pie as tasty as Jamie’s version, you’ll need a handful of ingredients. Don’t be intimidated by the list – these are staples you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Chicken Breasts: This is your main protein, and choosing skinless chicken breasts ensures a lean, tender filling.
- Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and sautéing the onions and mushrooms. It adds a nice flavor depth.
- Onion and Garlic: The base flavors that bring everything together. They are key to building the savory profile of the pie.
- Chestnut Mushrooms: These mushrooms have a nutty, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and the creamy sauce.
- Plain Flour: To thicken the sauce. It creates a smooth, velvety texture that coats the chicken and mushrooms.
- Chicken Stock: Adds depth to the sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade, but make sure it’s flavorful.
- Double Cream: For that rich, velvety texture. It makes the filling indulgent and smooth.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme is the best, but dried will work just fine. It adds that earthy, aromatic flavor that complements both the chicken and mushrooms.
- Puff Pastry: Store-bought is perfect for this recipe. The flaky layers of pastry are a dream when baked.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie 30-minute Meals
Here’s how to make this delicious pie in 30 minutes, just like Jamie Oliver does it:
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Prep The Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. Season them well with salt and pepper.
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Cook The Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
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Cook The Mushrooms
- Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes until they release their moisture and start to brown.
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Make The Sauce
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir for a minute. Then, slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, add the cream and thyme. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
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Combine Chicken And Sauce
- Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir everything together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
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Assemble The Pie
- Transfer the chicken mixture into a baking dish. Roll out the puff pastry and place it over the dish, trimming any excess. Press the edges down to seal, then make a few slits in the top to let steam escape.
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Bake
- Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
- Chicken and Mushrooms: Chicken is a mild protein, making it the perfect partner for the earthy, umami flavor of mushrooms. Together, they create a balanced filling that’s hearty yet not too heavy.
- Flour and Cream: The flour thickens the sauce and helps bind the chicken and mushrooms, while the cream adds richness and makes the sauce luxuriously smooth.
- Puff Pastry: Puff pastry is light and flaky because of its layers of butter and dough. It provides the perfect contrast to the creamy filling, adding texture and crunch to every bite.
Expert Tips
- Make It Ahead: This pie is great for prepping in advance. You can prepare the filling ahead of time and just assemble and bake the pie when you’re ready.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a splash of white wine or a dollop of Dijon mustard to the sauce for extra depth. Both ingredients complement the chicken and mushrooms beautifully.
- Puff Pastry: If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, make sure to brush the top with a little egg wash before baking. It helps the crust turn golden and crispy.
- Use Different Mushrooms: If you can’t find chestnut mushrooms, feel free to use cremini or button mushrooms. Each variety brings a slightly different flavor to the dish.
- Get Creative with Herbs: While thyme is perfect for this dish, you can experiment with rosemary, sage, or even a little tarragon for an extra layer of flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with extra mushrooms or even some hearty vegetables like spinach and leeks. Add a little tofu or lentils for protein.
- Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some grated cheddar or Parmesan on top of the filling before covering it with the puff pastry. It melts beautifully into the sauce.
- Add Bacon: If you’re craving something with a bit of smokiness, crisp up some bacon and stir it into the chicken and mushroom mixture. It adds a wonderful contrast to the richness of the cream.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some red chili flakes or a touch of curry powder to the sauce. It’ll give the pie a warming, spicy undertone.
Final Words
This pie is all about comfort. It’s a meal that wraps you up in warmth, flavors, and memories. The combination of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich sauce, all enclosed in a flaky, buttery crust, is nothing short of magical. Plus, it’s easy enough to make on a weeknight but feels special enough for guests or family dinners.
FAQs
How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Mushroom Pie Take To Make?
It takes around 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal for a busy day.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Mushroom In This Pie?
Yes, you can swap in other mushrooms like cremini or portobello, but keep the texture in mind.
Is The Pastry For Jamie Oliver’s Pie Made From Scratch?
No, the recipe uses pre-made puff pastry to save time while still delivering a delicious result.