Hairy Bikers' Creamy Chicken, Ham, and Leek Pie

The Hairy Bikers' Creamy Chicken, Ham, and Leek Pie is a classic British dish that combines tender chicken and ham with the sweetness of leeks, enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and encased in a flaky, golden pastry. This comforting pie is perfect for a hearty family meal and is a staple in British cuisine, showcasing the culinary talents of the Hairy Bikers, a beloved cooking duo known for their approachable and satisfying recipes.

Ingredients List for the Creamy Chicken, Ham, and Leek Pie

To prepare this delicious pie, you'll need the following ingredients:

• For the filling:
  • 450ml chicken stock
  • 3 chicken breasts, skinned
  • 75g butter
  • 2 leeks, trimmed and sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 50g plain flour
  • 200ml milk
  • 2-3 tbsp white wine (optional)
  • 150ml double cream
  • 150g thickly carved ham, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper for seasoning
• For the pastry:
  • 350g plain flour
  • 200g butter
  • 1 free-range egg (beaten with 1 tbsp cold water), plus another beaten egg for glazing

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: Start by heating the chicken stock and cooking the chicken breasts in it. Then, in a separate pan, cook leeks and garlic in butter, adding flour to create a roux. Gradually incorporate milk and some of the reserved stock to form a thick sauce. Season with salt and pepper, then add the cream.
2. Make the Pastry: Combine flour and butter in a food processor, then add the beaten egg and water to form a dough. Roll out two-thirds for the base of the pie, and the remainder for the top.
3. Assemble the Pie: Cut the cooked chicken into pieces and mix with the ham and leeks into the cooled sauce. Fill the pastry-lined dish with this mixture, cover with the top pastry, seal the edges, and glaze with beaten egg.
4. Bake: Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 200°C for about 35-40 minutes until golden brown and the filling is hot.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Cool the pie at room temperature, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezer: Cool, slice, and wrap the pie portions. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as above.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of this pie roughly contains 1353 calories, 57g carbohydrates, 57g protein, and 84g fat.

FAQ about the Creamy Chicken, Ham, and Leek Pie

• Can I make this pie ahead of time? Yes, assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it.
• How can I make the pastry flakier? Keep the puff pastry cold, and ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking. Brush the top with beaten egg for a golden finish.
• What are good substitutions for leeks? Onions or shallots are good substitutes. Fennel can also be used for a sweeter, licorice-like taste.

The Hairy Bikers' Creamy Chicken, Ham, and Leek Pie is a heartwarming dish that brings the essence of British comfort food to your table. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it's perfect for a cozy family dinner. Remember, the original recipe is attributed to the Hairy Bikers, known for their accessible and delightful culinary creations