Chicken Pie and Mash is a cornerstone of traditional British home cooking. Rooted in the heart of London’s pub culture, this meal brings together tender chicken in a rich, velvety sauce, encased in golden pastry and served alongside buttery mashed potatoes.
Mastering the Balance of a Professional Savoury Pie
The hallmark of a high-quality Chicken Pie & Mash lies in the contrast of textures. In professional kitchens, the goal is to achieve a “short” or flaky pastry that provides a crisp snap, protecting a succulent interior that never feels dry. By using bone-less chicken thighs and a slow-reduction cream sauce, you ensure the filling remains rich and deeply savoury. This dish is particularly loved for its balance; the buttery mash adds a soft, comforting element that completes the plate, making it a dependable favourite for both casual family dinners and sophisticated gastro-pub menus.
This dish is particularly loved for its balance of textures. The flaky pastry contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken filling, while the mash adds a soft, buttery element that completes the plate. Whether served as a hearty lunch or a cosy evening meal, Chicken Pie & Mash remains a dependable favourite that suits all ages and occasions.
The Secret to the Ultimate Smooth Mash
For a professional-standard side, the mash must be devoid of lumps and enriched with high-quality dairy. Professional chefs recommend using starchy potatoes and passing them through a ricer before folding in warm milk and butter. This technique guarantees a silky consistency that perfectly complements the golden, crisp pastry of the chicken pie.
Serves: 4
Total Time: 75 minutes
Flavour Profile: Savoury, creamy, buttery, and comforting
Ingredients
- For the chicken pie filling:
- 500 g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 1½ cups chicken stock
- ½ cup cooking cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the pie:
- 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry
- 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
- For the mash:
- 800 g potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup warm milk
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the mashed potatoes:
- Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 18–20 minutes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and salt until smooth. Set aside and keep warm.
- Cook the chicken filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly before adding the chicken. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned.
- Add vegetables and thicken:
- Stir in carrots and peas. Sprinkle over the flour and cook for one minute. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously.
- Create the sauce:
- Add cream, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the pie:
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a pie dish. Cover with puff pastry, trim the edges, and brush with beaten egg. Cut a small slit in the centre to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the pie:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes until the pastry is golden and crisp.
🍽 Serving and Pro-Tips
Chicken Pie & Mash is best served immediately while the pastry is at its crispest. For an authentic experience, serve with a side of steamed seasonal greens and a drizzle of rich chicken gravy. This dish is excellent for meal prep, as the filling can be made a day in advance to allow the flavours to develop further.
Nutrition*
- Per serving:
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fat: 36 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Potassium: 960 mg
- Fiber: 5 g
- Calcium: 140 mg
- Iron: 3.8 mg
Try our other British comfort dishes like Chicken Shawarma Plate for a complete dinner menu
*Nutrition data is calculated by an automated system and may vary, so it is provided as an estimate.
Chicken Pie & Mash continues to be a firm favourite because it delivers warmth, comfort, and satisfaction in a single plate. With its creamy filling, crisp pastry, and smooth mash, it remains one of the most enjoyable traditional meals for both everyday dining and special occasions.