Comforting Chicken Pie with Savory Herb Crust

In the heart of Zimbabwe, traditional dishes blend a symphony of local flavors, offering stories and memories with every bite. This Comforting Chicken Pie with a savory herb crust is inspired by local ingredients like coriander, paprika, and onions, echoing the warmth of home-cooked meals. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food, satisfying both hunger and heart.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast looking for a family recipe or an aspiring entrepreneur considering the local food market, particularly the Zimbo Menu, this delightful pie will surely inspire you.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

1 onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

1 tablespoon ground paprika

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup chicken broth

2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)

For the Savory Herb Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

½ cup cold butter, cubed

4-5 tablespoons cold water

1 tablespoon mixed dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)

Instructions

Prepare the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the onions until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the mixed vegetables, followed by chicken, paprika, coriander, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Whisk in the flour to thicken the mixture, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for another 5-7 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Herb Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Add in the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.

Mix in the dried herbs, then gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out two-thirds of the chilled dough to fit your pie dish. Lay the rolled dough into the dish and trim the edges.

Pour the chicken filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.

Roll out the remaining dough for the top crust, covering the filling. Seal the edges by crimping with a fork and cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the filling while it simmers.

You can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and boost the flavor.

This pie is very versatile; feel free to swap out vegetables or enhance the herbs based on what you have available.

Serve with a fresh side salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.

As you savor each piece of this Comforting Chicken Pie with Savory Herb Crust, think about how it could be shared with friends or featured in unique culinary offerings through Zimbo Menu. The local food marketplace is a fantastic avenue to explore your passion for cooking, whether it’s a hobby or stepping into a business.

Take the first step in discovering new culinary adventures by downloading the Zimbo Menu app. It might just inspire you to turn these delightful recipes into delicious experiences for others!