One of my fondest memories in the kitchen is making dishes from leftovers. There’s something special about turning yesterday’s meal into a whole new experience, and one dish that really nails this is Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Roast Chicken Pie.
A few months ago, I found myself standing in front of an almost empty roast chicken carcass. Most people would have tossed it out, but instead, I grabbed my trusty pie dish and thought about how I could breathe new life into it. That’s when I remembered Jamie’s take on leftover chicken. It felt like the perfect opportunity to make something comforting and delicious while not wasting a thing.
This pie is a beautiful way to utilize leftovers, and it’s simple enough to make after a busy day. If you’ve ever made a roast chicken and had more than enough for one meal, this recipe is a game-changer.
Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Roast Chicken Pie Recipe
Jamie’s recipe strikes the perfect balance between homey comfort food and something a little more refined. It’s a great example of turning what might seem like a leftover mishmash into something spectacular.
The recipe is all about using that roast chicken you’ve got hanging around and combining it with a delicious, creamy filling and a flaky, golden crust. The beauty of it lies in the fact that it’s flexible-you can throw in veggies you have in the fridge, a little extra cheese, or even a spoonful of mustard for an extra kick.
Ingredients Needed
The ingredients are simple and mostly things you’ll already have in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need for Jamie Oliver’s pie:
- Leftover Roast Chicken – About 2 cups of chopped or shredded chicken
- Puff Pastry – Store-bought or homemade (depending on how much time you’ve got)
- Butter – 50g for a rich base
- Flour – 50g, to thicken the filling
- Milk – 300ml for the creamy sauce
- Chicken Stock – 200ml (you can use a cube or liquid stock)
- Thyme – Fresh is best, but dried will work too
- Vegetables – Think peas, carrots, and onions. Use what you have!
- Cheese – Optional, but I recommend cheddar or parmesan for an extra layer of flavor
- Salt and Pepper – To taste
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Roast Chicken Pie
Here’s a quick breakdown of how to make the pie:
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Make The Filling
- Start by melting butter in a pan. Once it’s melted, stir in the flour to make a roux. This will be your thickening base.
- Gradually add the milk and stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. You’ll want a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Once thickened, toss in your leftover chicken, veggies, and thyme. Cook for a few minutes to get everything heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Prepare The Pastry
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Line your pie dish with one sheet, making sure it covers the bottom and sides.
- Pour your filling into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Top The Pie
- Place the second sheet of puff pastry over the top of the filling. Seal the edges by pressing them down with a fork. You can make a small slit in the center of the top to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top with a little milk or egg wash for that golden finish.
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Bake
- Pop the pie into a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
The magic behind this pie isn’t just in the flavors, but in the science of the ingredients. Let’s break it down:
- Puff Pastry: Puff pastry gets its flaky, light texture from the layers of butter and dough. When baked, the butter melts and steams, causing the dough to puff up.
- Chicken Stock and Milk: These liquids form the base of the creamy sauce. The chicken stock brings in that rich umami flavor, while the milk adds the necessary creaminess. When combined, they create a smooth sauce that coats the chicken and veggies perfectly.
- Flour (Roux): The flour is crucial for thickening the sauce. When it’s cooked with butter, it forms a roux that thickens up the milk and stock, creating the rich, comforting texture we love in pies.
- Cheese: Adding cheese to the filling isn’t just for flavor. It helps bind everything together, creating a smooth, velvety texture.
Expert Tips
- Use Cold Pastry: If you’re using store-bought pastry, keep it cold until you’re ready to roll it out. Cold pastry handles better and results in a flakier crust.
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff the pie with lots of filling, but leave a little room at the top. This allows the pastry to bake evenly without overflowing.
- Customize Your Veggies: If you have leftover vegetables, throw them in. This is a great way to use up what’s in your fridge. Root veggies like carrots or parsnips work well, as do peas or corn.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the pie sit for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This helps the filling set a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s recipe is fantastic on its own, you can switch things up depending on your mood or what’s in your pantry. Here are a few ideas:
- Herb-Infused Chicken: Add rosemary or sage to the filling for a more earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a bit of Dijon mustard or some chili flakes for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and load up the pie with roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty, vegetarian option.
- Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of cheese between the filling and pastry for an even cheesier experience.
Final Words
This leftover roast chicken pie is proof that even the simplest ingredients can become something extraordinary. It’s hearty, comforting, and so much better than eating the same meal twice. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your leftovers and avoid waste.
It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening. There’s something so satisfying about taking ingredients that would otherwise be forgotten and transforming them into a brand new creation.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Roast Chicken Pie?
You’ll need leftover roast chicken, puff pastry, butter, onions, garlic, carrots, peas, chicken stock, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Leftover Roast Chicken Pie Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Meat For The Leftover Roast Chicken Pie?
Definitely! You can swap the chicken for turkey or even beef, just adjust the seasonings accordingly.