There’s nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty meal fresh out of the oven. This Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is the perfect way to turn leftover chicken into a creamy, veggie-packed dish topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress the whole family, this recipe is a must-try!
Made in under an hour with simple ingredients, this shepherd’s pie is the ultimate comfort food. The savory filling blends tender chicken, rich gravy, and vibrant vegetables, all sealed beneath a golden mashed potato crust. Let’s dive into this delicious classic!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
Here’s what you’ll need to create this rich and satisfying Chicken Shepherd’s Pie:
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- ½ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken or turkey
- 14 oz chicken broth
- ½ cup additional broth (instead of wine)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp poultry seasoning
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- ¼ cup milk (optional, for creamier potatoes)
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
First, preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Chicken Filling
Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to make a roux. Cook for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste. Then, add the frozen vegetables and chopped cooked chicken, stirring well.
Step 3: Simmer the Gravy
Pour in the chicken broth and the additional broth, followed by salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the filling is simmering, reheat your mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat. If they are too thick, add a bit of milk for extra creaminess. Stir occasionally to keep them smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Pie
Then, pour the prepared chicken mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, sealing in all the delicious flavors.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Finally, place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is lightly golden. For an extra crispy texture, rough up the mashed potatoes with a fork before baking or sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese. Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before serving.
The Best Time to Enjoy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Nothing beats the heartwarming experience of digging into a freshly baked Chicken Shepherd’s Pie. The creamy filling, the savory chicken, and the buttery mashed potatoes make it a perfect meal for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you need a comforting dish after a long day.
This dish is also a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, making it ideal for post-holiday meals. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
Looking for more cozy meal ideas? Check out our Loaded Baked Potato Soup or this Chicken Shepherd’s Pie!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Can I make Chicken Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes separately, then assemble and refrigerate the dish for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze Chicken Shepherd’s Pie?
Absolutely! Once baked, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can customize the pie by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just ensure they are cooked slightly before adding to the filling.
How do I get a crispy mashed potato topping?
To achieve a crispier top, use a fork to create small peaks on the mashed potatoes before baking. You can also brush them lightly with melted butter.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Want to take your Chicken Shepherd’s Pie to the next level? Here are some expert tips to ensure the best flavor and texture every time.
- Use freshly mashed potatoes: If possible, make mashed potatoes fresh instead of using leftovers. They’ll be creamier and fluffier!
- Make it extra rich: Add a bit of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream to your mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- Don’t overfill the dish: Leave a little space at the top of the baking dish to prevent the filling from bubbling over.
- Rough up the topping: Use a fork to create ridges in the mashed potatoes for a crispier, golden-brown crust.
- Let it rest: Allow the pie to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Shepherd’s Pie while keeping it delicious.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating in the oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Reheating in the microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- For best results: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Perfect Pairings for Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Complete your meal with these delicious side dishes and beverages that complement the rich flavors of this comforting dish.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the pie.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for a nutritious side.
- Buttery Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
- Loaded Baked Potato Soup: Double the comfort with a warm bowl of Loaded Baked Potato Soup.
- Apple Cider: A warm or chilled glass of apple cider enhances the cozy, autumnal feel of this dish.
We hope you love this Chicken Shepherd’s Pie as much as we do! It’s the perfect way to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table, whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a cozy homemade meal.
Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out for you. Did you make any tweaks or add your own special twist? Share your version with us!
For more hearty comfort food ideas, check out our Mediterranean Bean Salad for a fresh and flavorful side dish.
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Happy cooking!
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Chicken Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Description
Comfort food at its finest! This Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is the perfect way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, wrapped in a creamy, veggie-packed gravy and topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s easy, hearty, and ready in under an hour!
Ingredients
– 3 tbsp butter
– ½ cup finely diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 tbsp flour
– 1½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
– 2 cups chopped cooked chicken or turkey
– 14 oz chicken broth
– ½ cup additional broth (instead of wine)
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– ¼ tsp ground black pepper
– ¼ tsp poultry seasoning
– 3 cups mashed potatoes
– ¼ cup milk (optional, for creamier potatoes)
Instructions
1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Next, stir in flour until smooth. Cook for a minute, then mix in frozen vegetables and chicken.
3. After that, add chicken broth, extra broth, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, reheat mashed potatoes in a saucepan. Add a little milk if needed for a creamier texture.
5. Then, pour the chicken mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
6. Finally, bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Let cool for 5 minutes and enjoy!
Notes
For an extra crispy top, rough up the mashed potatoes with a fork before baking or sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese!
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 45
- Category: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 182kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 699mg
- Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 5g