Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie is the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet flavor, bringing together succulent chicken, creamy leeks, and a buttery, flaky crust-an ideal meal for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie is a British classic that elevates a simple dish into something truly special. It combines tender pieces of chicken breast with sweet, earthy leeks and a rich, creamy sauce.

All of this is encased in a crisp, golden, buttery puff pastry shell. The filling is a harmonious blend of flavors, creating a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any season. The pie’s simplicity in ingredients belies the depth of flavor achieved through careful seasoning and a slow cooking process, making it an enduring favorite for home cooks everywhere.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Filling

• Chicken breasts: About 600g, ideally free-range, cut into bite-sized chunks
• Leeks: 2 large, cleaned and sliced thinly
• Butter: 2 tablespoons for sautéing the leeks and chicken
• Flour: 2 tablespoons to thicken the sauce
• Chicken stock: 500 ml (use a good-quality or homemade stock for richness)
• Cream: 150 ml (heavy cream for a rich, velvety texture)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (optional, for extra flavor)
• Thyme: Fresh thyme or dried thyme for fragrance
• Salt and pepper: To taste

For The Pastry

• Puff pastry: Enough to cover the pie dish (about 500g, store-bought or homemade)
• Egg: 1 egg for glazing the pastry, giving it that beautiful golden color when baked

Equipment Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Pie dish: Ideally a 23 cm (9-inch) pie dish, but you can adjust based on the size of your filling.
• Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan for cooking the filling.
• Frying pan: For sautéing the leeks and chicken.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the pastry.
• Baking sheet: To catch any drips from the pie while baking.
• Pastry brush: For glazing the pastry with egg wash.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie?

1. Prepare The Filling

Start by heating the butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook them gently until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides. Season generously with salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir in the garlic (if using) and cook for another minute.

2. Create The Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and leek mixture and stir it in. This will help thicken the sauce.

Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring to avoid lumps. Once the mixture starts to thicken, stir in the cream.

Continue to cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce is rich and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare The Pastry

Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. The pastry should be large enough to cover the top and sides of the dish. If you prefer a more rustic look, you can roll the dough a little thicker and crimp the edges for a decorative touch.

4. Assemble The Pie

Pour the cooled chicken and leek filling into the pie dish. Carefully place the rolled-out pastry over the top, trimming any excess dough.

Use a fork to crimp the edges and seal the pie. Make a small slit in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Bake The Pie

Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush the top of the pastry with a beaten egg for a glossy, golden finish.

Place the pie on a baking sheet (in case of any drips) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is puffed up and golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

• Make it ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just assemble the pie the day you plan to bake it, and it will save you time when you’re ready to serve.
• Pastry alternatives: If you prefer, you can use shortcrust pastry for the base and puff pastry for the top, which gives you a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the chicken with mushrooms and add extra vegetables such as carrots or potatoes for a hearty filling.
• Freezing tip: This pie freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until hot and crispy.

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients with exceptional flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this pie is sure to impress with its flaky, buttery pastry and creamy, savory filling. With a few expert tips and a little bit of time, you can create this irresistible dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie is a fantastic dish to prepare for family meals, offering comfort, flavor, and simplicity. While his original recipe is delicious, there are many easy ways to tweak it and make it your own. Below are a few variations that you can experiment with:

1. Add More Veggies

If you’re looking to increase the nutritional value of your pie or simply add more flavors, consider incorporating different vegetables. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or even sweet potatoes can complement the leeks and chicken beautifully. You can sauté them with the leeks and chicken or roast them separately to add depth to the flavor profile.

2. Make It Gluten-Free

For those with gluten intolerances, it’s easy to make this pie gluten-free by using gluten-free puff pastry. You can find many pre-made gluten-free options in supermarkets or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Additionally, replace flour in the creamy sauce with a cornstarch slurry or rice flour to thicken the filling.

3. Add A Touch Of Wine

For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when cooking the leeks or chicken. This will deepen the sauce and give the filling a sophisticated, layered taste. You can also switch out the chicken stock for a bit of white wine and broth combination to elevate the flavor even further.

4. Incorporate Cheese

For extra indulgence, try adding a bit of cheese to the filling. A sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a creamy, savory element to the dish. Stir the cheese into the sauce before adding it to the pie, or sprinkle it over the top before baking to get a golden, bubbly crust.

5. Spicy Kick With Mustard

For those who love a little heat, adding Dijon mustard or wholegrain mustard to the sauce gives the dish an exciting flavor profile. You can add a tablespoon or so to the cream or stock mixture before pouring it over the chicken and leeks. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy filling and adds a tangy punch.

6. Switch The Protein

While chicken is traditional, you can easily switch it out for turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms and lentils. For a more hearty vegetarian variation, mushrooms provide an earthy flavor, while lentils give a robust texture. This option works especially well in wintertime for a filling, plant-based pie.

These variations allow you to tailor Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie to your personal preferences or dietary needs. Experimenting with different ingredients is a fun way to make the dish your own!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’ve made a large batch of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie and have leftovers, it’s important to store them correctly to ensure they remain safe to eat and retain their delicious flavor. Here are some best practices for storing your leftovers:

1. Cool It Down Quickly

Allow your pie to cool to room temperature before storing it. This prevents condensation from forming, which could make the crust soggy when reheating. However, make sure the pie doesn’t sit out for more than two hours to avoid any food safety issues.

2. Use Airtight Containers

Store your leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you’ve made individual portions, consider cutting the pie into smaller pieces and wrapping each one in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the container. This helps keep the crust crispy when reheated.

3. Refrigeration

Once the pie is fully cooled, place it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. If you know you won’t eat it all in that time, it’s a good idea to freeze part of the leftovers.

4. Freezing For Longer Storage

For longer storage, freeze your leftover pie. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly in the oven.

5. Reheating Tips

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pie for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re reheating individual portions, place them on a baking sheet and bake until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. Avoid reheating in the microwave if possible, as it can cause the crust to become soggy.

By following these practices, you can ensure that your Chicken and Leek Pie remains fresh and tasty for days after its initial creation.

What Goes Well With Chicken And Leek Pie?

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie is a complete meal in itself, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside the pie:

1. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables, like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes, are a great match. The natural sweetness of the vegetables provides a beautiful contrast to the savory, creamy pie. You could even add a few Brussels sprouts or roasted beets for an added dimension of flavor.

2. A Fresh Green Salad

A light and refreshing green salad balances the richness of the pie. You can make a simple salad with mixed greens, arugula, or spinach, and dress it with a tangy vinaigrette. Adding some sliced apples or pears will give the salad a burst of sweetness, complementing the savory pie.

3. Mashed Potatoes

If you’re in the mood for something extra comforting, mashed potatoes are a perfect side. The creaminess of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the chicken and leek filling, creating a rich, indulgent experience. You can even mix in some roasted garlic or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

4. Garlic Bread

For a true comfort food experience, garlic bread is a fantastic option. Its crispy texture and aromatic garlic flavor can balance the creamy pie, offering a bit of crunch alongside the softness of the filling.

5. Steamed Asparagus Or Broccoli

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli can cut through the richness of the pie. These vegetables bring both texture and freshness to the meal while providing a healthy, green element.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Leek Pie is a versatile, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sticking with the original recipe or experimenting with variations to suit your taste, this pie remains a reliable option for any home cook.

Storing leftovers properly ensures that this delicious meal can be enjoyed over multiple days, and pairing it with complementary sides, from roasted vegetables to a fresh salad, can take it to the next level. Whatever route you choose, this dish is sure to be a family favorite that will bring warmth and joy to the table.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Used In Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie?

The key ingredients typically include free-range chicken thighs, leeks, carrots, celery, garlic, fresh thyme, plain flour, chicken stock, crème fraîche, puff pastry, and one egg for glazing. Jamie often encourages organic or free-range ingredients where possible for maximum flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie?

The entire process usually takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes prep time (about 30 minutes) and cooking time (about 1 hour), depending on your oven and the size of the pie dish.

Can I Use Leftover Cooked Chicken In This Recipe?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken can be used. Simply skip the browning step and add the shredded or chopped chicken when the leeks and vegetables are softened. Just ensure it’s heated thoroughly before baking with the pastry.

Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie?

While the original recipe is not vegetarian, you can adapt it by substituting the chicken with a meat alternative like Quorn or a mix of mushrooms and white beans. Replace chicken stock with vegetable stock and skip the bacon, if included.

What Type Of Pastry Is Best For The Pie Topping?

Jamie Oliver typically uses pre-made all-butter puff pastry for convenience and rich flavor. Ensure it’s thawed before use if frozen, and roll it out to fit the top of your pie dish snugly.

Do I Need To Blind Bake The Pastry For This Pie?

No blind baking is necessary. The pie only uses a pastry lid (not a base), which is placed directly over the filling and then baked until golden and puffed.

Can The Chicken And Leek Pie Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the pastry topping and bake fresh when ready to serve. You can also freeze the unbaked pie for later use.

What Sides Go Well With This Pie?

Jamie often serves this pie with steamed green vegetables like peas, tenderstem broccoli, or green beans. Mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad also make great accompaniments.

How Do I Prevent A Soggy Pastry Top?

Ensure the filling is cool before adding the puff pastry lid. A hot filling can steam the pastry, making it soggy. Also, bake the pie in a preheated oven at a high enough temperature (around 200°C/400°F) for the pastry to crisp properly.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Chicken And Leek Pie?

Yes, the pie can be frozen before or after baking. If unbaked, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Bake from frozen, adding about 20 extra minutes. If already baked, cool completely before freezing and reheat in the oven until piping hot.