James Martin Chicken And Leek Pie

Delve into the cozy world of comfort food with James Martin's Chicken and Tarragon Pie, a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite. This pie, brimming with the rustic charm of traditional British cuisine, combines succulent chicken, aromatic tarragon, and hearty vegetables encased in a flaky, golden pastry.

Ingredients for the Chicken and Tarragon Pie

• Chicken: Start with a whole chicken, prepared and cooked to create a rich base for the pie.
• Vegetables: The earthy sweetness of carrots and leeks, along with onions, provide a flavorful foundation.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Bay leaves, black peppercorns, and a generous bunch of tarragon infuse the pie with layers of flavor.
• The Sauce: A blend of butter, flour, homemade stock, and double cream thickens into a velvety sauce that envelops the filling.
• Pastry: Rough puff pastry or ready-rolled puff pastry forms the perfect top, becoming irresistibly crisp upon baking.

Preparation Instructions

1. Cooking the Chicken: Begin by simmering the chicken with vegetables and seasonings to create a flavorful stock.
2. Shredding the Chicken: After cooking, the chicken is removed, cooled, and shredded, setting the stage for the filling.
3. Making the Sauce: In a separate pan, a roux is formed with butter and flour, then combined with the reserved stock and cream to create a rich sauce.
4. Assembling the Pie: The shredded chicken, vegetables, and sauce are layered in a pie dish, topped with the pastry, and baked until golden.

Storage and Reheating

This pie keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven to maintain its crispy pastry. For longer storage, freezing is an option.

Nutritional Information

The pie is rich in protein from the chicken, with the vegetables adding essential vitamins and minerals. The pastry and cream sauce contribute to the calorie count, making this dish a hearty meal.

FAQ about the Chicken and Tarragon Pie

• Can I use store-bought pastry? Yes, ready-rolled puff pastry is a convenient and effective option.
• How can I make the pie filling thicker? Adjust the flour in the roux or let the sauce reduce more before adding it to the filling.

James Martin's Chicken and Tarragon Pie is not just a dish; it's a comforting embrace in the form of food, perfect for any day of the week. Serve it on its own or with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a meal that's sure to satisfy.

For a more detailed exploration of this recipe, visit James Martin's official website​​​​​​.