Chicken Pie. Recipe

Chicken Pie Recipe

History of Chicken Pie:

Chicken pie is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The origins of the recipe can be traced back to medieval times, where pies were a common way of preparing and cooking meat. The pie crust served as both a cooking vessel and a serving dish, making it a convenient and practical option for a meal.

In the early days, chicken pie was often made with different cuts of chicken, including the whole bird or just specific parts like joints or breasts. The recipe would also vary depending on regional preferences and the available ingredients.

Fun Facts about Chicken Pie:

1. Chicken pie is a comfort food that has stood the test of time. It has remained a popular dish in households across the world.

2. In the United States, chicken pot pie is a common variation of the traditional chicken pie. It typically includes vegetables such as carrots and peas along with the chicken, making it a complete and filling meal.

3. Chicken pie was a favorite dish among British monarchs. King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I were known for their love of pies, including chicken pie.

4. The phrase "easy as pie" might be misleading when it comes to making chicken pie. Though it requires some effort, the end result is absolutely worth it.

Recipe for Chicken Pie:

Ingredients:
- 2 young, tender chickens
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated lemon peel
- 1 raw egg
- 2 cups fine bread crumbs
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon gelatine
- Pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- Gravy:
- Wings, feet, and necks of the chickens
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut the young, tender chickens into neat joints, reserving the pinions of the wings, necks, and feet.

3. Scald the feet and scrape off the skin.

4. In a bowl, combine the fine bread crumbs, pepper, salt, chopped parsley, grated lemon peel, and the raw egg. Mix well to form a forcemeat.

5. Shape the forcemeat into small balls and place them evenly in the pie dish among the chicken joints.

6. Pour the cold water over the chicken and forcemeat in the dish.

7. Roll out the pie crust and cover the dish, making a couple of cuts in the center of the crust to allow steam to escape.

8. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. If the crust browns too quickly, cover it with a piece of parchment paper.

9. While the pie is baking, soak the gelatine in enough cold water to cover it for at least an hour.

10. In a separate saucepan, make a gravy by simmering the wings, feet, and necks of the chickens in water. Season the gravy with salt and pepper.

11. Dissolve the soaked gelatine in the hot gravy, stirring until fully incorporated.

12. Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and insert a small funnel into the opening in the top crust.

13. Slowly pour the gelatine-infused gravy through the funnel into the pie until it is filled.

14. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing and serving. The gelatine in the gravy will ensure that the pie sets properly.

15. Enjoy the delicious and flavorful chicken pie! It's perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or simply as a comforting meal.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

If you enjoy chicken pie, you might also like other savory pies such as shepherd's pie, steak and ale pie, or quiche Lorraine. These dishes feature a variety of fillings and different pastry crusts, making them versatile and satisfying options for any occasion.

Whether you're a fan of classic comfort foods or exploring new flavors, you can't go wrong with a delicious chicken pie. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating a hearty and comforting dish that has been cherished for generations.