Mary Berry’s Chicken Pie with Potato Topping is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, blending the savory richness of chicken pie with the heartwarming touch of mashed potatoes. Ideal for cozy family dinners or as a heartening meal during the colder months, this recipe promises to charm your taste buds.
Serving 6-8 people, this dish can be prepared within about 2 hours, making it perfect for a weekend treat or a special gathering.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step to create Mary Berry’s Chicken Pie with Potato Topping, including some personal tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.
What is Mary Berry Chicken Pie With Potato Topping?
Mary Berry Chicken Pie With Potato Topping is a rustic and heartwarming dish that layers creamy chicken filling beneath a fluffy, golden potato crust, offering a deliciously satisfying twist to the traditional pie.
Other Pie Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Chicken and Mushroom Pie
- Jamie Oliver Leek and Potato Pie
- James Martin Meat and Potato Pie
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for chilly evenings, providing a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a dish.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and children alike, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any family gathering.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Great for using up leftover chicken, reducing food waste while still making a delicious meal.
- Impressive Yet Simple: While it looks impressive when served, it’s surprisingly straightforward to make, even for novice cooks.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Chicken Pie With Potato Topping
- Chicken Breasts: 500g (approximately 1.1 lbs), diced
- Onions: 2 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots: 2 large, diced
- Frozen Peas: 150g (about 0.33 lbs)
- Chicken Stock: 400ml (about 1.7 cups)
- Heavy Cream: 150ml (about 0.63 cups)
- Butter: For frying and topping
- Flour: 2 tablespoons, for thickening
- Potatoes: 900g (approximately 2 lbs), peeled and quartered
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Thyme: A few sprigs, leaves picked
Equipment
- Large Frying Pan
- Saucepan
- Potato Masher
- Baking Dish (about 9×13 inches)
- Sharp Knife
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Wooden Spoon
Mary Berry Chicken Pie With Potato Topping Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Filling:
- Cook the Chicken: In a large frying pan, melt butter and fry diced chicken breasts until golden.
- Add Vegetables: Include chopped onions and carrots in the pan, cooking until they begin to soften.
- Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the chicken and vegetables, stir to coat, then gradually add chicken stock, stirring continuously until thick.
- Final Touches: Mix in heavy cream, frozen peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly, then remove from heat.
Step 2. Prepare the Potato Topping:
- Boil Potatoes: Cover quartered potatoes with water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and cook until tender.
- Mash: Drain and mash potatoes with butter until smooth, seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 3. Assemble and Bake:
- Layer the Filling: Transfer the chicken mixture to a baking dish.
- Add Potato Topping: Spoon mashed potatoes over the chicken mixture and spread evenly.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake for 30-40 minutes until the topping is golden and crisp.
Step 4 . Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Best served hot, paired with a simple green salad for freshness
What to Serve with Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping
Accompanying your chicken pie with the right sides can transform a simple meal into a feast.
Here’s what you can serve to complement the flavors:
- Green Salad: Toss together mixed greens with a vinaigrette to add a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pie.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans work well, providing a vibrant and healthy side.
- Cranberry Sauce: Offer a small bowl of cranberry sauce for a sweet and tart flavor that cuts through the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any creamy sauce left on the plate.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted to perfection make a hearty addition.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping
Achieving perfection in this classic dish involves some handy tips that ensure your chicken pie is as delightful as Mary Berry’s own creations:
- Ensure Proper Layering: Spread the potato topping evenly over the chicken mixture to prevent sogginess and achieve a uniformly crisp top.
- Season Each Layer: Flavor each component separately to enhance the overall taste of the pie, especially the potatoes and chicken filling.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme or parsley to infuse the pie with aromatic freshness.
- Keep an Eye on Moisture: If your chicken filling seems too liquidy, add a bit more flour while cooking to help it thicken.
- Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully heated before baking the pie to get a beautifully browned top.
Variations of Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping
Giving your chicken pie a twist can keep your menu exciting. Here are some creative variations to spice up the traditional recipe:
- Add Mushrooms: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the chicken filling for an earthy flavor.
- Swap the Protein: Try using turkey or duck instead of chicken for a different taste.
- Cheesy Topping: Mix grated cheese into the potato topping for extra richness and a golden crust.
- Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for a kick.
- Veggie Delight: Boost the vegetable content by adding spinach or leeks to the filling.
How to Store Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping Leftovers
Storing leftovers properly ensures your pie remains delicious for the next servings:
- Cool Before Storing: Allow the pie to cool completely to avoid condensation that can make the topping soggy.
- Airtight Container: Use an airtight container to keep the pie fresh in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
How to Reheat Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping Leftovers
Reheating your pie correctly can make it just as enjoyable the second time around:
- Oven Method: Reheat in an oven at 350°F until the pie is thoroughly warmed through (about 20-30 minutes).
- Cover with Foil: Cover the pie with aluminum foil while reheating to keep the moisture in and prevent the topping from burning.
- Avoid the Microwave: For best results, avoid using the microwave as it can make the potato topping chewy.
FAQs
Can I Make Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time. Assemble the pie up to one day before you plan to bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the pie from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as directed.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping?
The total cooking time for Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping is approximately 2 hours. This includes about 1 hour of preparation and 40-50 minutes of baking time in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F).
What Is the Best Way to Thicken the Filling for Mary Berry Chicken Pie?
To thicken the filling for Mary Berry Chicken Pie, use about 2 tablespoons of flour. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the cooked chicken and vegetables, then stir well before gradually adding the chicken stock. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, which should take a few minutes.
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Regular Potatoes for the Topping?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used as a healthier alternative to regular potatoes for the topping. They add a slightly sweet flavor and are rich in fiber and vitamins. Prepare them the same way as regular potatoes—peel, boil until tender, and then mash with butter, seasoning to taste.
Nutrition Values (per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25 grams
- Fat: 22 grams (with variations depending on the type of cream and butter used)
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sodium: 400 mg (this will vary based on the chicken stock and the amount of added salt)
Final Words
Enjoy making and sharing this comforting Mary Berry Chicken Pie with Potato Topping. It’s a recipe that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite, perfect for any meal where you want to feel at home. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive occasion, this pie will always be a beloved choice.