chicken shepherd’s pie recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best chicken shepherd’s pie recipe

I’m so excited to share this classic chicken shepherd’s pie recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for comforting and easy-to-make meals that my family will love. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.

The dish originates from the UK, where it’s been a beloved comfort food for generations. It’s made with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a crispy mashed potato topping. When I make this recipe, I love how it fills my kitchen with the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic.

It’s a true delight for the senses. The key to making this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the filling slowly over low heat. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become tender and juicy.

I also like to use leftover roast chicken or turkey if I have some on hand, which makes the dish even easier to prepare. When I serve this shepherd’s pie, my kids always ask for seconds. They love the combination of the creamy mashed potatoes and the savory filling.

It’s a true family favorite that never gets old. As an added bonus, this recipe is also incredibly healthy. The chicken is lean protein, and the vegetables add fiber and vitamins.

The mashed potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, making this dish a well-rounded meal that will keep you full until your next meal.

Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

4.7 from 1458 votes

A comforting casserole of seasoned ground chicken and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. This classic dish is a complete meal in one pan, perfect for family dinners.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Filling

1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 lbs ground chicken
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup frozen peas
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Mashed Potato Topping

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 egg yolk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
3Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
4While the potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
6Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink and has browned slightly.
8Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for 1 minute to coat the meat and vegetables.
9Pour in the chicken broth, add the tomato paste, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, and stir well.
10Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce has thickened slightly.
11Remove from heat and stir in the frozen peas.
12Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the hot pot.
13Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.
14Stir in the egg yolk until fully incorporated, which will help the topping brown in the oven.
15Transfer the chicken filling to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
16Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and spread gently to cover the filling completely.
17Use a fork to create ridges on the surface for extra browning.
18Place the baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is bubbling around the edges and the potato topping is golden brown.
19Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Large pot
Potato masher or ricer
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a richer topping, you can substitute half the milk with heavy cream. To make ahead, assemble the pie without baking, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then add 10 minutes to the baking time.

This chicken shepherd’s pie recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

My family loves when I serve this dish at family gatherings because everyone gets excited about having something comforting and familiar. Plus, it’s so versatile – we love serving it as-is or adding some extra toppings like chives or bacon bits.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

What is shepherd’s pie?

Shepherd’s pie is a traditional British dish made with minced meat (usually beef or lamb) topped with a layer of mashed potatoes.

Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use ground beef instead of chicken if you prefer. However, keep in mind that ground beef will give a different flavor profile than chicken.

How do I store leftover shepherd’s pie?

You can store leftover shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I reheat shepherd’s pie in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat shepherd’s pie in the microwave by covering it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and heating it on high for 30-60 seconds or until hot.

How do I make individual portions of shepherd’s pie?

To make individual portions of shepherd’s pie, simply divide the filling among ramekins or small baking dishes and top each portion with mashed potatoes.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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