French Chicken and Mushroom Pie: A Deliciously Simple Classic in 5 Steps

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This French Chicken and Mushroom Pie is the ultimate comfort food. It combines succulent chicken, savory mushrooms, and a creamy, flavorful sauce with the richness of Dijon mustard and fresh thyme. Wrapped in a buttery, flaky puff pastry, this pie is sure to impress anyone at the table. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, ready in under an hour, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or special occasion without all the fuss. With its rich flavors and golden crust, this dish is both satisfying and delightful.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Then, add the mushrooms and cook until browned. Stir in the diced chicken and cook until lightly golden and no longer pink.
2. Make the Sauce
   Sprinkle the flour over the chicken and mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Add Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes, then remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Pie
   Transfer the filling to a pie dish. Cover with the thawed puff pastry, trimming the edges and crimping them to seal. Cut a small slit in the center of the pastry to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake the Pie
   Brush the pastry with the beaten egg to create a golden, shiny finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
5. Serve
   Let the pie rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to settle. Slice and enjoy the deliciousness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add extra veggies: Toss in a handful of spinach, peas, or carrots to increase the veggie content.
• Mini Pies: Use ramekins to make individual-sized pies for a fun twist or for a dinner party.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free puff pastry for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore the pastry’s crispiness. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the crust won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or tempeh.

2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake it.

3. Can I make this pie with a different type of pastry?

If you prefer, you can use a different type of pastry, such as shortcrust or phyllo dough, though puff pastry gives the best results.

4. How do I know when the pie is fully cooked?

The pie is done when the puff pastry is golden brown, and the filling inside is bubbling and hot.

5. Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen for an extra 10-15 minutes.

6. Can I use store-bought chicken broth?

Yes, store-bought chicken broth works fine for this recipe. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

7. What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme instead. It still provides great flavor!

8. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding a handful of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyère, into the filling will give the pie a creamy, cheesy texture.

9. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to use thawed chicken, as frozen chicken can release excess moisture and affect the texture of the pie.

Conclusion

French Chicken and Mushroom Pie is a simple yet elegant dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce all wrapped in flaky, golden puff pastry. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to make and offers rich, comforting flavors that everyone will love. Whether you make it as a classic pie or as individual servings, it’s a guaranteed hit at your table!

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