Name: Irresistible Mary Berry Chicken Leek Pie for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 1 tbsp oil (Use for sautéing; substitute with butter for added flavor.); 2 large leeks (Trimmed and sliced; can switch with onions if needed.); 4 pieces skinless, boneless chicken thighs (Cubed; can substitute with chicken breast.); 25 g butter (Adds richness; use oil for a dairy-free version.); 25 g plain flour (For thickening the sauce; gluten-free flour is an option.); 300 ml chicken stock (Base for the sauce; vegetable stock for a vegetarian twist.); 100 ml double cream (Contributes creaminess; non-dairy cream for a lighter version.); 1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon (Optional; dried tarragon works as well.); Salt and freshly ground black pepper (Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.); 375 g ready-rolled puff pastry (Forms the crust; homemade pastry can deliver authenticity.); 1 egg beaten (For brushing the pastry; milk is a suitable alternative.)

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Mary Berry Chicken Leek is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy nights. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken and leeks, enveloped in a flaky pastry, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this dish promises to impress and nourish. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this classic British recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Mary Berry Chicken Leek

There are countless reasons to adore this Mary Berry Chicken Leek recipe. First and foremost, it brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that create a hearty meal. It’s versatile enough to be a weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish. The creamy filling, combined with the flaky puff pastry, offers a delightful contrast in textures. Here are more reasons why this dish stands out:

Comforting and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
Can be prepared ahead of time, making it great for meal prep.
Suitable for families, appealing to both adults and children.
Easy to modify with different vegetables or herbs.
Offers a taste of traditional British cuisine.
Perfect as a Mary Berry Chicken and Leek Pie or as a standalone casserole dish.

Ingredients for Mary Berry Chicken Leek

Gather these items:

1 tbsp oil (Use for sautéing; substitute with butter for added flavor.)
2 large leeks (Trimmed and sliced; can switch with onions if needed.)
4 pieces skinless, boneless chicken thighs (Cubed; can substitute with chicken breast.)
25 g butter (Adds richness; use oil for a dairy-free version.)
25 g plain flour (For thickening the sauce; gluten-free flour is an option.)
300 ml chicken stock (Base for the sauce; vegetable stock for a vegetarian twist.)
100 ml double cream (Contributes creaminess; non-dairy cream for a lighter version.)
1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon (Optional; dried tarragon works as well.)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.)
375 g ready-rolled puff pastry (Forms the crust; homemade pastry can deliver authenticity.)
1 egg beaten (For brushing the pastry; milk is a suitable alternative.)

How to Make Mary Berry Chicken Leek Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant. Then, add the cubed chicken thighs and cook until they’re golden brown on all sides.
Step 2: In the same pan, melt the butter over low heat. Sprinkle in the flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in the double cream and chopped tarragon, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Carefully pour the chicken and leek filling into a 1.2-liter pie dish, making sure it’s evenly spread out.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Lay the puff pastry over the filling, trimming any excess and sealing the edges by crimping with a fork. Don’t forget to cut a small steam vent in the top!
Step 5: Gently brush the pastry with the beaten egg for a golden shine. Pop the pie into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and beautifully golden brown.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Mary Berry Chicken Leek

Keep these in mind:

Always ensure the filling is well-seasoned for the best flavor.
Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
You can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate it for convenience.

Best Ways to Serve Mary Berry Chicken Leek

This comforting dish can be served in various delightful ways:

Pair it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Irresistible Mary Berry Chicken Leek Pie for Cozy Nights - Mary Berry Chicken Leek - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Mary Berry Chicken Leek

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply warm in the oven until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for Mary Berry Chicken Leek Meal Prep, ensuring you have a delicious dinner ready to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mary Berry Chicken Leek

What’s the secret to perfect Mary Berry Chicken Leek?

The secret lies in properly sautéing the leeks until they’re soft and fragrant, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Using fresh chicken and quality stock also contributes to the delicious outcome.

Can I make Mary Berry Chicken Leek ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the pie before baking for a quick weeknight dinner.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mary Berry Chicken Leek?

Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken during the initial sautéing stage, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Additionally, keep an eye on the pastry to prevent burning.

Variations of Mary Berry Chicken Leek You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some delicious variations:

Swap the chicken for turkey for a lighter option.
Add vegetables like carrots or peas for added nutrition.
Try a creamy sauce version with extra double cream for a richer flavor.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chicken noodle soup for a comforting meal. If you’re interested in dessert, don’t miss our mini cranberry cheesecakes that are perfect for any occasion.