Chicken and Leek Pie Jamie Oliver Recipe

Name: Chicken and Leek Pie Jamie Oliver Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: Not specified
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1.5 kg whole free-range chicken; 150g smoked pancetta; Fresh thyme; 2 leeks; 1 celery heart; 1 onion; 1 carrot; 250 ml dry cider; 1 heaped teaspoon English mustard; 1 litre organic chicken stock; 500g button mushrooms; 2 tablespoons crème fraîche; 1 large egg; 500g plain flour; 250g cold butter; Olive oil; Salt and black pepper

Dive into the world of comforting British cuisine with the Chicken and Leek Pie by Jamie Oliver. This hearty dish is not just a meal; it's a delightful experience of flavors and textures that promises to warm any table it graces.

Chicken and Leek Pie: A Brief Description

At its heart, the Chicken and Leek Pie is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in a symphony of taste. Featuring tender chicken pieces and sweet leeks enveloped in a creamy sauce, and encased in a flaky, buttery pastry, this dish is Jamie Oliver's nod to traditional British comfort food. The pie is perfect for sharing, making it a favorite for family dinners or gatherings.

Cultural and Historical Context

Pies have been a staple in British cuisine for centuries, evolving from medieval meat pies to the diverse and delicious variations we see today. Chicken and leek, in particular, is a classic combination, beloved for its comforting flavors. Jamie Oliver, known for his focus on fresh, accessible ingredients and simple cooking techniques, brings his own twist to this traditional recipe, making it accessible for home cooks everywhere.

Ingredients List

For the filling:

Whole free-range chicken (1.5 kg)
Smoked pancetta (150g)
Fresh thyme, leeks, celery heart, onion, carrot
Dry cider (250 ml) and English mustard (1 heaped teaspoon)
Organic chicken stock (1 litre) and button mushrooms (500g)
Crème fraîche (2 tablespoons) and a large egg

For the pastry:

Plain flour (500g) and cold butter (250g)

Additionally, you'll need olive oil, flour for thickening, and seasoning ingredients like sea salt and black pepper.

Preparation Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season and sear the chicken in a pan. Then, simmer with pancetta, thyme, chopped vegetables, cider, mustard, and stock until tender.
Make the Pastry: Combine flour, butter, and water to form a dough, then chill.
Assemble the Pie: Shred the cooked chicken and mix with mushrooms, crème fraîche, and the reduced cooking liquid. Line a pie dish with pastry, fill with the chicken mixture, cover with more pastry, and bake until golden.
Serve: Enjoy this pie hot, ideally with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to preserve the pastry's crispness.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Chicken and Leek Pie is rich in protein and provides a good balance of fats and carbohydrates. The use of crème fraîche and pancetta adds depth to its flavor profile while contributing to its calorie content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the pie ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pie when ready to bake.
Can I use store-bought pastry? Absolutely, using ready-made puff or shortcrust pastry is a great time-saver.
Is there a gluten-free option? For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with your preferred gluten-free blend and ensure that the cider and stock are gluten-free.

In conclusion, Jamie Oliver's Chicken and Leek Pie stands as a testament to the joy of cooking and sharing food. Its simplicity, coupled with the rich flavors and textures, makes it a dish worth trying at home. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this pie is sure to impress.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips from Jamie Oliver, explore his collection of culinary creations that promise to inspire and delight.