10 Apr 2025
Cook time 65 min
Prep time 25 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
4 chicken thighs
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ginger root
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried coriander
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 can canned tomatoes
3 cups pumpkin
2 cups potatoes
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup peas
2 tsp coriander leaves
2 sheets puff pastry
1 egg
The Butter Chicken Pie combines the rich flavors of traditional butter chicken with the comfort of a pie. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, featuring a buttery, flaky pastry crust filled with tender chicken thighs, aromatic spices, and creamy vegetables. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to impress with a hearty and delicious meal.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
4. Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, dried coriander, paprika, and turmeric. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spices are aromatic.
5. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the diced tomatoes, pumpkin, and potatoes to the skillet. Mix well to combine.
6. Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Add Cream and Peas: Stir in the heavy whipping cream and peas. Cook for another 5 minutes, uncovered, until the mixture thickens slightly.
8. Finish Filling: Finally, stir in the chopped coriander leaves. Remove the skillet from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
9. Prepare Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a floured surface if necessary. Use one sheet to line the bottom of a pie dish, pressing it gently to fit. Leave some overhang around the edges.
10. Fill the Pie: Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
11. Top with Pastry: Lay the second sheet of puff pastry over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Use a fork to make small holes in the top to allow steam to escape, and brush the top with the beaten egg.
12. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
13. Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your best-ever butter chicken pie!
Tips:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better incorporation of flavors.
- Ensure the puff pastry is well-chilled before using to get a flakier crust.
- To save time, you can use pre-cut pumpkin and potatoes.
- Brush the pie with a beaten egg for a golden-brown finish.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier.
This Butter Chicken Pie is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that brings together the best of Indian cuisine and classic pie comfort food. By following these simple tips and steps, you can create a stunning dish that will surely become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy the mouth-watering taste of buttery, spicy chicken encased in a crispy, golden pastry.