This Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish packed with tender chicken, mixed veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes on top. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of that fluffy potato topping. Sometimes I sneak extra potatoes while no one is looking! Who can blame me? 😄
What I love most is how quick and easy it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy—perfect for busy nights or when you need some comfort food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your Shepherd’s Pie. You can swap it with ground turkey or beef for different flavors. I like to use ground chicken for a lighter option!
Onion and Garlic: Essential for building flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about half a teaspoon. Leeks are a great onion substitute too if you want a milder taste.
Carrots: They add sweetness and color. You can replace them with diced bell peppers or zucchini if you prefer. Both will give a nice texture and flavor.
Frozen Peas and Corn: These are convenient and add sweetness. You can easily replace them with other veggies like green beans or spinach based on your preference.
Tomato Paste: A crucial component for depth. If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use a small amount of ketchup or even tomato sauce in a pinch. I personally love the richness that tomato paste adds.
Potatoes: For the topping, I recommend russets for their fluffiness when mashed. If you want a different texture, you could use sweet potatoes or a mix of potatoes and cauliflower for a lighter topping.
What’s the Best Way to Get Creamy Mashed Potatoes?
Perfect mashed potatoes can make or break your Shepherd’s Pie. Here’s how to achieve that creamy texture:
- Start by boiling the peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes well, as excess water can lead to a soupy mash.
- Add butter for richness, and warm milk or cream for a creamy texture. Warm liquids blend better!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. A little garlic powder can add extra flavor, too!
- Mash until just combined for a creamy texture — over-mixing can lead to gummy potatoes.
Try adding an egg yolk for extra creaminess if you’re feeling adventurous!
How to Make Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk (or cream for richer topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Chicken Shepherd’s Pie takes about 30 minutes of preparation time and another 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about an hour to create this comforting dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your pie!
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
While the oven is heating, place the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until they’re tender, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re soft, drain the water. Mash the potatoes with butter, milk (or cream), salt, and pepper until they’re smooth and creamy. Set them aside for later.
3. Cook the Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until it becomes soft. Then, throw in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until it’s fragrant.
4. Add the Chicken:
Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Stir in the diced carrots, frozen peas, and corn if you’re using it. Cook this mix for an additional 3-4 minutes, letting the veggies soften up a bit.
5. Season the Mixture:
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let everything cook together for another 1-2 minutes for the flavors to blend.
6. Add the Broth and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Combine and Assemble:
Transfer the chicken and vegetable filling into a baking dish. Spread the creamy mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Make sure to cover it well!
8. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes more—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh or dried thyme for a lovely touch. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Chicken Shepherd’s Pie!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground chicken and will work just as well in this recipe. It may have a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Make the Mashed Potatoes Creamier?
To achieve creamier mashed potatoes, make sure to use warm milk or cream when mashing. This helps incorporate it better. You can also add an extra tablespoon of butter for richness or even a dollop of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes ahead of time! Simply store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble everything and pop it in the oven. You may need to increase the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with Chicken Shepherd’s Pie?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also great with a slice of crusty bread to mop up any leftover filling!
