Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the comforting goodness of this simple Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love!
This Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie brings together wholesome ingredients and a pinch of love. Enjoy this dish with your family or friends!
A Comforting Classic with a Twist
Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Traditionally made with lamb, this Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie offers a delightful twist on the classic. By using tender, shredded chicken, you not only elevate the flavor but also make it a more accessible choice for families. Chicken is milder and appeals to a broader audience, making this dish a perfect fit for family gatherings and weeknight meals alike.
The combination of vegetables adds a nutritious touch to this dish. Carrots and peas provide vibrant colors while packing a punch of vitamins and minerals. Not only do they enhance the flavor and texture, but they also ensure that your meal is well-balanced. This Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is a smart way to incorporate more veggies into your family's diet, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Whether you're planning for a busy week or looking for a dish to share with friends, Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is superb for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until needed. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave, ensuring those creamy mashed potatoes stay fluffy and inviting.
This pie is also highly customizable. Feel free to adjust the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand. Add corn for sweetness or incorporate green beans for a crunch. You can even spice it up with herbs like rosemary or thyme or switch to a different protein, like turkey. This flexibility allows you to tailor the dish to your tastes, ensuring everyone in the family enjoys it.
Serving Suggestions
To complement your Chicken Shepherd’s Pie, consider pairing it with a refreshing side salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will add a crisp texture and bright flavor to your meal. This balance ensures that you enjoy a satisfying dining experience without feeling overly stuffed.
For a heartier option, serve the pie with crusty bread or dinner rolls. They’re perfect for soaking up the delicious broth from the chicken filling. You could also offer a selection of condiments like hot sauce or garlic butter on the side for those who enjoy a little kick or extra richness in their meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
Make sure to prepare all ingredients before you begin cooking!
Steps
Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add carrots and peas, cooking for another 5 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken, broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Assemble and Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the chicken filling evenly. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing out with a spatula.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers of your Chicken Shepherd’s Pie, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The pie can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions, which will last for up to three months. Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie in a baking dish, covering it with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Reheat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of heating.
Nutritional Information
This Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while the assorted vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals essential for a balanced diet. One serving will provide a variety of nutrients that promote health and wellness, making this dish a practical choice for any family.
If you're watching your calorie intake or looking to make it more nutritious, consider substituting regular potatoes with sweet potatoes. They are lower on the glycemic index and packed with vitamins A and C. Additionally, using low-fat milk and butter or exploring dairy-free alternatives can help you create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.
→ Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure that your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Savor the comforting goodness of this simple Easy Chicken Shepherd’s Pie recipe. Packed with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. It’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite that everyone will love!
Created by: Lydia Barrett
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add carrots and peas, cooking for another 5 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken, broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through, then remove from heat.
Boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with milk, butter, and salt until smooth and creamy.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the chicken filling evenly. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing out with a spatula. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 18g
- Protein: 30g