- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken, mixing well.
- Thicken Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the chicken mixture, then pour in the chicken broth. Stir until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Sour Cream and Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for a couple more minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in the frozen peas. Let the filling cool slightly.
Assemble and Bake the Pie:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll Out Pastry: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie dish. Place the dough in the dish, trimming any excess.
- Add Filling: Spoon the chicken mixture into the pastry-lined pie dish.
- Top Pie: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim, seal, and crimp the edges. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake: Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice.
Tips for Success:
- Butter Temperature: For the flakiest pastry, make sure your butter is cold. This ensures small pockets of butter steam during baking, creating layers.
- Filling Consistency: If your filling is too liquid, add a bit more flour to thicken it. If it’s too thick, a splash of chicken broth can loosen it.
- Cooling the Filling: Cooling the filling before adding it to the pastry helps prevent the bottom crust from becoming soggy.
Conclusion:
This Chicken Pie with Sour Cream is a heartwarming dish that combines creamy, flavorful filling with a buttery, flaky crust. It’s a perfect meal for any day of the week, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Serve it with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete and balanced meal. Enjoy the process of making this delightful pie, and savor the delicious results!