Introduction

Discover the delicious and hearty recipe for Pierrette’s Chicken Pasta. This comforting dish combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce, served over a bed of pasta, making for a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 2 cups of cooked pasta
– 2 cups of diced cooked chicken
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of grated cheese (your choice)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cook the chicken breast in a pot of salted boiling water for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken, let it cool, and then shred it into pieces.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables while stirring. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flavor of the flour.

Incorporate the Liquid

Slowly pour in chicken broth and milk while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken, stirring occasionally.

Add Seasoning and Chicken

Stir in the shredded chicken, peas, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients, then remove from heat.

Prepare the Dough

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle that fits your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, ensuring it’s even on all sides.

Fill the Pie

Pour the chicken filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.

Cover with Top Crust

Roll out another piece of dough for the top crust and place it over the filling. Pinch the edges to seal and create a decorative pattern if desired. Cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Bake the Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.

Let it Cool

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Chicken Options

You can use rotisserie chicken to save time, just shred it and add it to the mixture.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers according to your preference.

Dough Tips

For a flakier crust, keep your butter and water very cold while preparing the dough.

Storage Instructions

This pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven to maintain the crust’s texture.

Cook techniques

Poaching Chicken

Poaching is a gentle cooking method that involves simmering chicken in water or broth until fully cooked. This technique helps retain moisture and flavor in the chicken.

Thickening Sauce

To thicken a sauce, use a roux or cornstarch slurry. A roux is made by cooking equal parts flour and fat, while a cornstarch slurry involves mixing cornstarch with cold water and adding it to the sauce.

Making a Puff Pastry

Puff pastry consists of layers of dough and butter that create a flaky, airy texture when baked. It requires careful rolling and folding to achieve the desired layers.

Sautéing Vegetables

Sautéing involves cooking vegetables quickly in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat, allowing them to become tender while retaining their color and texture.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, pork, or even a vegetarian option like mushrooms or tofu.

What can I use if I don’t have puff pastry?

If puff pastry is unavailable, you can use pre-made pie crusts or make a simple homemade biscuit dough as an alternative.

How can I make the dish healthier?

To make the dish healthier, consider using leaner cuts of chicken, reducing the amount of butter, or incorporating more vegetables into the recipe.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble the dish just before baking for a fresh result.

What sides pair well with chicken pie?

Popular sides that pair well with chicken pie include green salads, steamed vegetables, or a light soup.

Conclusion

The Pasta with Chicken recipe by Pierrette is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy pasta, making it a perfect comfort meal for any occasion. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture elevate a simple weekday dinner into a treat, pleasing both family and guests. Try this recipe to bring warmth and love to your dining table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Stir-Fry

Pair your chicken pasta with a colorful vegetable stir-fry for a healthy side, featuring bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots seasoned with soy sauce.

Garlic Bread

Complement the meal with warm, crispy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce of the pasta. Add freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch.

Caesar Salad

A refreshing Caesar salad makes an excellent addition, offering a crispy contrast to the creamy pasta, topped with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing.

Herbed Rice

Consider serving herbed rice as a base beneath the chicken pasta, enhancing the overall culinary experience with its subtle flavors.

Chocolate Mousse

For dessert, a light chocolate mousse would provide the perfect sweet finish, balancing the richness of the main dish and leaving your guests satisfied.