Easy James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Recipe

James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie
Yields: 1 Serving Difficulty: Easy Prep Time: 30 Mins Cook Time: 1 Hr Total Time: 1 Hr 30 Mins

Welcome to a culinary journey where tradition meets comfort — the James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie. This dish is a delightful blend of tender chicken pieces and earthy mushrooms encased in a flaky, buttery pastry. It’s the quintessential comfort food that brings a touch of gourmet to your dining table.

This recipe serves 6-8 people and requires about 1- 1.5 hours of preparation and cooking time.

Follow along as I guide you through each step to create this exquisite pie, providing useful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

What is James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie?

James Martin’s Chicken Mushroom Pie is a classic British dish that features a creamy filling of chicken and mushrooms, seasoned with herbs and encased in a rich, flaky pastry. This pie is renowned for its savory depth and comforting qualities.

James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Recipe

 

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful and Fulfilling: Every bite offers a burst of creamy chicken and mushroom flavors, wrapped in a crisp pastry.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, this pie fits perfectly.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for preparing ahead of time for a stress-free hosting experience.

Ingredients Needed to Make James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie

  • Chicken Breasts (500g or approximately 1.1 lbs): Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Mushrooms (300g or approximately 0.66 lbs): Cleaned and sliced; chestnut mushrooms are preferred for their rich flavor.
  • Onion (1 large): Finely chopped.
  • Garlic Cloves (2): Minced, for a hint of warmth.
  • Chicken Stock (400ml or approximately 1.7 cups): Provides the base for the creamy filling.
  • Double Cream (200ml or approximately 0.85 cups): Adds richness to the filling.
  • Butter (2 tbsp): For sautĂ©ing and adding a velvety finish.
  • Flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the pie filling.
  • Fresh Thyme (1 tbsp): Chopped, for a touch of earthy aroma.
  • Puff Pastry (1 sheet): Use ready-rolled for convenience.
  • Egg (1): Beaten, for glazing the pastry.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Equipment

  • Large Frying Pan: For cooking the filling.
  • Pie Dish: Approximately 9-inch diameter.
  • Rolling Pin: For rolling out the pastry.
  • Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
  • Sharp Knife: For chopping ingredients.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring the filling.

Instructions to Make James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  • Heat the Butter: In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • SautĂ© the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions to the pan, cooking until they are translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Mushrooms

  • Brown the Chicken: Increase the heat slightly and add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until they are golden and nearly cooked through.
  • Add Mushrooms: Introduce the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are soft and browned.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

  • Sprinkle with Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and mushrooms, stirring well to coat everything evenly.
  • Pour in Stock and Cream: Gradually add the chicken stock, followed by the double cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook until the sauce thickens. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Roll Out the Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry to fit the size of your pie dish.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

  • Fill the Dish: Spoon the chicken and mushroom mixture into your pie dish.
  • Cover with Pastry: Lay the pastry over the top of the filling, trimming any excess. Press the edges to seal and make small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
  • Glaze with Egg: Brush the pastry with beaten egg to help achieve a golden, glossy finish.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

  • Bake for 25-30 Minutes: Place the pie in the oven and bake until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Step 7: Serve

  • Cool Slightly: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly, making it easier to cut.

James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Recipe

What Do I Serve With James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie?

Deciding on the perfect accompaniments for James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie can enhance the overall dining experience, balancing flavors and textures. Here are some delightful pairing suggestions:

  • Refreshing Green Salad: Begin with a fresh mix of greens like arugula, spinach, and romaine, dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon.
  • Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Opt for creamy mashed potatoes, a classic side that complements the rich pie with its smooth texture.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Consider roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts for a healthy and vibrant addition.
  • Steamed Asparagus: Delight in the simplicity of lightly steamed asparagus spears, seasoned with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie

Achieving perfection in preparing James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie involves attention to detail and a few chef secrets:

  • Thoroughly Brown the Chicken: Start by ensuring the chicken pieces are well-browned to lock in flavor and add depth to the pie.
  • Keep the Filling Thick: Avoid a runny pie by allowing the sauce to thicken properly before it goes into the oven.
  • Chill the Pastry: For an extra flaky crust, keep your pastry chilled until just before you drape it over the filling.
  • Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Pre-cook the filling and let it cool slightly to prevent the pastry base from becoming soggy.

Variations of James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie

Exploring variations of the classic James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie can bring new flavors and excitement to your meal:

  • Add Bacon: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for a smoky flavor that complements the creamy chicken and mushroom filling.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for chunks of hearty vegetables like squash and additional mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • Spice It Up: Introduce a bit of heat with a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper mixed into the filling.
  • Use Different Mushrooms: Experiment with a variety of mushrooms such as shiitake or porcini for different textures and flavors.

How do I Store James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Leftovers?

Proper storage of James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this delightful dish for a little longer.

Here’s how to keep it fresh:

  • Allow to Cool: Ensure the pie cools to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation.
  • Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container to keep the pie fresh and prevent it from absorbing other flavors in the fridge.
  • Refrigerate Promptly: Place the container in the refrigerator as soon as it’s packed. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days.

How do I Reheat James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Leftovers?

Reheating leftovers properly can make James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie taste almost as good as when it’s freshly baked.

Follow these tips for the best results:

  • Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) before reheating to ensure even warming.
  • Cover with Foil: Cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning while allowing the inside to heat thoroughly.
  • Heat Until Warm: It typically takes about 20-25 minutes for the pie to be heated through. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp the pastry.
  • Check Temperature: Ensure the pie reaches an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 560 kcal
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 130 mg
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 3 g

FAQs

Can I Make James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie in advance to save time. Assemble the pie, but instead of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What Can I Use Instead of Chicken in the Pie?

For a vegetarian version of the pie, you can substitute chicken with a mix of additional mushrooms, such as portobello and shiitake, and root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. Tofu or paneer also makes a good protein replacement and absorbs the flavors of the pie beautifully.

How Can I Thicken the Pie Filling If It’s Too Runny?

If the filling of your pie is too runny, you can thicken it by cooking it a bit longer before adding it to the crust. Alternatively, a mixture of cornstarch and water (a cornstarch slurry) added to the filling can help thicken it quickly. Use about 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water for every cup of liquid in your filling.

Is James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie Suitable for Freezing?

James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie is suitable for freezing, either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the pie in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze. To freeze after baking, let the pie cool completely, then cover and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Final Words

This step-by-step guide to making James Martin Chicken Mushroom Pie should equip you with everything you need to create a stunning dish that’s sure to impress. Whether for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home, this pie promises satisfaction in every slice. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

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