Introduction
Pâté au Poulet de Pierrette is a delightful chicken pie recipe that hails from Quebec, combining savory flavors and a flaky, golden crust. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a comforting dinner, showcasing the warmth of home cooking with its flavorful filling and delicious pastry.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken: 2 cups, cooked and shredded
Onion: 1, finely chopped
Celery: 1 stalk, diced
Carrot: 1, diced
Green pepper: 1, diced
Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
Salt: 1 teaspoon
Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Chicken broth: 1 cup
Cream: ½ cup
Frozen pie crusts: 2 (9-inch)
Prep Time
The preparation time for Pâté au Poulet de Pierrette is approximately 20 minutes. This time includes gathering the ingredients, chopping vegetables, and preparing the filling.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for this recipe is around 30 minutes. Thus, the total time from start to finish is about 50 minutes. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it a perfect dish for a family meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onions and cook until translucent. Then add carrots and celery, cooking until tender. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and thyme. Mix in chicken broth and cream, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface. Fit the rolled dough into a pie pan, trimming the excess.
Add the Filling
Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Top the Pie
Roll out a second portion of dough to create a top crust. Place it over the filling and seal the edges by crimping with your fingers. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Check periodically to avoid over-browning.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
Dough Tips
Ensure that the butter is cold when making the dough for a flaky crust.
Chicken Alternatives
You can substitute chicken with turkey or a vegetarian protein option if desired.
Baking Time
Oven temperatures may vary; adjust baking time as necessary to achieve a golden crust.
Storage Instructions
Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated when ready to serve.
Cook Techniques
Poaching Chicken
Poaching is a gentle cooking method that involves simmering chicken in flavorful liquid. This technique helps retain moisture and tenderness while infusing the meat with the essence of the broth.
Making a Roux
A roux is a mixture of equal parts fat and flour, cooked together to thicken sauces. It forms the base for creamy sauces in dishes like Chicken Pot Pie, providing a rich texture and depth of flavor.
Sautéing Vegetables
Sautéing involves cooking vegetables quickly in a small amount of fat over high heat. This technique preserves the vegetables’ color, texture, and nutrients, making them a perfect complement to the dish.
Layering Flavors
Layering flavors means adding ingredients at different stages of cooking to build depth. Start with aromatics, followed by proteins, vegetables, and finally, seasonings to achieve a well-rounded dish.
Using a Pie Crust
A pie crust serves as the base for dishes like Chicken Pot Pie. Understanding how to handle and bake pie crust correctly ensures a flaky, delicious result that holds the savory filling well.
Baking Techniques
Baking is used to cook the assembled dish in the oven. Proper temperature and timing are crucial for achieving a golden, crispy crust while ensuring that the filling is cooked through and bubbling.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even a mixture of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and ensure that your pie crust is also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the filling and crust separately in advance and assemble them just before baking.
What can I serve with Chicken Pot Pie?
Chicken Pot Pie is typically a complete meal on its own, but it can be paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Conclusion
The Chicken Pie à la Pierrette is a delightful and comforting dish that highlights the beautiful combination of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and a savory pastry crust. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Its rich flavors and hearty nature make it an ideal choice for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Enjoying this dish will surely bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
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