James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie is a classic British dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This comforting and delicious pie is made with succulent chicken, chunky leeks, and a buttery puff pastry crust. It is a perfect example of comfort food at its best, and it is no wonder that it has become a firm favourite in households across the UK.
James Martin is a renowned chef who has made a name for himself with his delicious recipes, and his Chicken and Leek Pie is no exception.
This dish is a testament to his skill and expertise, and it is loved by foodies and home cooks alike. Whether you are looking for a hearty dinner or a delicious lunchtime treat, this pie is sure to hit the spot.
Why You Will Love James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie is a comforting and tasty dish that is perfect for any occasion. The pie has a rich, golden crust that is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The savory filling is made of tender chicken, leeks, and other ingredients that combine to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
One of the reasons why this recipe is so popular is because it is easy to make. The ingredients are simple and easy to find, and the preparation time is minimal. The recipe is also versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. For example, you can add extra vegetables or spices to the filling to create a more complex flavor profile.
Another reason why you will love this recipe is because it is a perfect comfort food. The pie is warm and hearty, and it is perfect for those cold winter nights when you want something to warm you up. The chicken and leek filling is also incredibly satisfying, and it will leave you feeling full and content.
How to Make James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
Ingredients
To make James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie, the following ingredients are required:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Chicken | 1 |
| Leek | 1 |
| Carrots | 2 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Garlic Cloves | 2 |
| Bay Leaves | 2 |
| Black Peppercorns | 6 |
| Thyme | 1 Sprig |
| Water | 1.5 Litres |
| Plain Flour | 50g |
| Butter | 50g |
| Double Cream | 200ml |
| Tarragon | 1 tbsp |
| Salt and Black Pepper | To Taste |
| Puff Pastry | 500g |
| Egg Yolk | 1 |
Instruments
The following instruments are required:
- Oven
- Saucepan
- Baking Tray
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry Brush
Step by Step Instruction
- Preheat the oven to 200C/390F/Gas 6.
- Place a whole chicken in a large saucepan with chopped onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, black peppercorns, thyme, and water. Boil and simmer for 1 hour until the chicken is cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool. Reserve the stock.
- Remove the chicken meat from the bones and shred it into small pieces with a fork.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat and add chopped leek and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add plain flour and mix well to create a roux paste. Gradually add 500ml of the reserved chicken stock from the cooking pan.
- Stir in double cream and tarragon. Add the shredded chicken and mix well.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Roll out the puff pastry to 3 mm thick.
- Place the chicken mixture into a pie dish and cover it with the puff pastry.
- Brush the edge of the pie dish with egg wash, then place the pastry over the chicken mixture, crimp the edges, and brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake the pie for 25 to 30 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is warm.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of juicy chicken, leek, and tarragon in a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky puff pastry, is sure to please everyone’s taste buds. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, even for beginners.
Recipe Tips for James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
To make a golden and crisp chicken pie, it is essential to season the chicken well. Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste over the chicken pieces before cooking them. This will help to bring out the rich flavour of the chicken and make it juicy.
When cooking the chicken, make sure to cook it until it is golden brown. This will help to create a delicious crust on the chicken that will add texture to the pie.
To make the pastry on the top of the pie golden and crisp, brush it with a beaten egg before baking. This will create a beautiful shine on the pastry and give it a lovely golden colour.
To add a rich flavour to the pie, add fresh tarragon to the chicken and leek mixture. This will add a delicious depth of flavour to the pie and make it taste even more delicious.
Finally, to make the recipe even more delicious, use ready-rolled puff pastry. This will save time and make the recipe even easier to follow.
Ingredient Substitute for James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
When it comes to cooking, sometimes it can be challenging to find all the ingredients required for a recipe. However, there are several ingredient substitutes that can be used for James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie recipe, making it easier to prepare the dish even without all the required ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients
For those who are allergic to certain ingredients or have dietary preferences, there are several substitute ingredients that can be used to make this recipe. For instance, instead of using chicken, turkey or beef can be used as a substitute. Additionally, for those who are lactose intolerant, coconut cream can be used in place of double cream.
Alternative Ingredients
If some of the ingredients required for this recipe are not readily available, several alternative ingredients can be used. For example, instead of using water chestnuts, mushrooms can be used as an alternative. Similarly, if tarragon is not available, rosemary or thyme can be used instead.
Allergies
For those who are allergic to certain ingredients, make sure to find suitable substitutes that will not trigger an allergic reaction. For instance, if someone is allergic to onions, shallots or leeks can be used as a substitute. Similarly, if someone is allergic to wheat, gluten-free flour can be used in place of plain flour.
Dietary Preferences
For those who have dietary preferences, make sure to find suitable substitutes that will meet their dietary requirements. For instance, for those who are vegetarians, tofu can be used as a substitute for chicken. Similarly, for those who are vegans, vegan butter can be used in place of regular butter.
What to Serve With James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. While the pie is a complete meal on its own, it can be served with a few side dishes to make it even more satisfying.
One great option to serve with this recipe is a green salad. A simple salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes dressed with a lemon vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy pie. The acidity of the dressing would also help to cut through the richness of the pie.
Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, would also make a great side dish for this recipe. The vegetables would add some colour and texture to the plate, as well as providing some much-needed vitamins and minerals.
Mashed potatoes are another classic side dish that would pair well with this pie. The creamy and buttery texture of the potatoes would complement the creamy sauce in the pie, while also providing a comforting and filling element to the meal.
How to Store James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
After preparing James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie, it is essential to store it correctly to maintain its freshness and taste. Proper storage will also prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and keep it safe for consumption.
Fridge
If you plan to consume the pie within the next few days, storing it in the fridge is the best option. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. The pie will last for up to three days in the fridge.
Freezer
If you don’t plan to consume the pie within the next three days, you can store it in the freezer for later use. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container before freezing it. The pie will last up to three months in the freezer.
Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above. However, make sure to reheat the pie thoroughly before consuming it again.
Plastic Wrap and Aluminum Foil
Using plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover the pie before storing it in the fridge or freezer will prevent air from entering and keep the pie fresh. Make sure to wrap the pie tightly to prevent freezer burn.
How to Reheat James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
When it comes to reheating James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie, there are a few things to keep in mind. The best way to reheat the pie depends on how it was originally cooked and stored.
Reheating in the Oven
If you have leftovers of James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. To do this, preheat your oven to 180°C. Place the pie in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake the pie for 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through.
Reheating in the Microwave
If you’re short on time and need to reheat the pie quickly, you can use a microwave. Place a slice of the pie on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave the pie for 1-2 minutes, or until it is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the pie, as this can cause it to become dry and rubbery.
Nutrition Fact
James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. Here are some of the nutritional facts of this dish:
- Calories: A single serving of James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie contains around 500-600 calories. This dish is quite filling and can be a good option for those who are looking for a high-calorie meal.
- Nutritional Information: This dish is a good source of protein. It has around 30-40 grams of protein per serving. It also contains a moderate amount of fat and carbohydrates. The exact nutritional information may vary depending on the recipe used.
- Diet: James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie is not suitable for those who are on a low-carb or low-fat diet, as it contains a moderate amount of both. However, it can be a good option for those who are on a high-protein diet.
- Health: While James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie is not the healthiest dish out there, it can be enjoyed as a treat or as part of a balanced diet. It is important to consume this dish in moderation, as it is high in calories.
James Martin Chicken and Leek Pie
Equipment
- Oven
- Saucepan
- Baking tray
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 Whole Chicken
- 1 Leek
- 2 Carrots
- 1 Onion
- 2 Garlic Cloves
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 6 Black Peppercorns
- 1 Sprig of Thyme
- 1.5 Liters of Water
- 50 g Plain Flour
- 50 g Butter
- 200 ml Double Cream
- 1 tbsp Tarragon
- Salt and Black Pepper to taste
- 500 g Puff Pastry
- 1 Egg Yolk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/390°F/Gas 6.
- In a large saucepan, place the whole chicken along with chopped onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, black peppercorns, thyme, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 hour until the chicken is cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool. Reserve the stock.
- Shred the chicken meat into small pieces with a fork.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped leek and carrots, and cook for 5 minutes until soft.
- Add plain flour and mix well to create a roux paste. Gradually add 500ml of the reserved chicken stock, stirring constantly.
- Stir in double cream and tarragon. Add the shredded chicken and mix well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Roll out the puff pastry to 3 mm thick.
- Place the chicken mixture into a pie dish and cover it with the puff pastry.
- Brush the edge of the pie dish with egg yolk, then place the pastry over the chicken mixture, crimp the edges, and brush the top with beaten egg.
- Bake the pie for 25 to 30 minutes until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is warm.
- Serve with mashed potatoes and vegetables.
Notes
- Calories: 500
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to prepare James Martin chicken and leek pie?
To prepare James Martin chicken and leek pie, you will need chicken, leek, onion, carrot, tarragon, butter, flour, puff pastry, water chestnuts, and double cream.
The steps to prepare the pie include spatchcocking the chicken and cooking it with vegetables and herbs until tender. Then, make a sauce with butter, flour, and chicken stock. Add the chicken and vegetables to the sauce and pour it into a pie dish. Cover with puff pastry and bake until golden brown.
Can I substitute water chestnuts in a traditional chicken and leek pie recipe?
Yes, you can substitute water chestnuts with other vegetables such as peas, corn, or mushrooms in a traditional chicken and leek pie recipe. However, water chestnuts add a unique texture to the pie filling and are a popular ingredient in James Martin’s recipe.
Is it possible to reheat a chicken and leek pie without drying it out?
Yes, it is possible to reheat a chicken and leek pie without drying it out.
To do so, preheat your oven to 180°C and cover the pie with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the filling is piping hot. Remove the foil and bake for a further 5-10 minutes to crisp up the pastry.
How can I cook a chicken and leek pie from frozen while ensuring it’s fully cooked through?
To cook a chicken and leek pie from frozen, preheat your oven to 200°C and place the pie on a baking tray.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is piping hot and the pastry is golden brown. Check the pie with a food thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 75°C to ensure it is fully cooked through.
What’s the calorie count for a small serving of chicken and leek pie?
The calorie count for a small serving of chicken and leek pie varies depending on the ingredients used and the size of the serving. However, a typical serving of chicken and leek pie contains around 500-600 calories.
Are there any alternative pastry options for making a healthier version of chicken and leek pie?
Yes, there are alternative pastry options for making a healthier version of chicken and leek pie. You can use filo pastry, which is lower in calories and fat than puff pastry.
Alternatively, you can make a crustless pie by omitting the pastry altogether and serving the filling with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.
