Are you looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy night in? Look no further than Cock-a-Leekie Pie! This classic Scottish recipe combines tender chicken, sweet leeks, and a rich, savory broth, all baked under a flaky, golden crust. It's a hearty, healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional homemade cooking, delivering a truly satisfying and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough for 4-6 servings.
For the Filling:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced and washed thoroughly
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade is best, but store-bought works too)
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried sage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Crust:
- 1 box (14.1 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or make your own!)
Instructions:
Preparing the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pie will bake evenly and achieve a beautiful golden crust.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and leeks and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step – properly softening the vegetables enhances the overall flavor.
- Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor and texture to the chicken.
- Pour in the chicken broth, add the pearl barley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the barley is tender. If the liquid reduces too much during cooking, add a little extra broth.
- Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to personalize the seasoning to your preferences.
Assembling and Baking the Pie:
- Carefully pour the chicken and barley mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Gently place the pie crust over the filling, crimping the edges to seal. You can make a decorative edge if you're feeling fancy! Alternatively, you can use a lattice top for a more rustic look.
- Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents the crust from puffing up too much.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust starts browning too quickly, cover the edges loosely with foil.
- Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Cock-a-Leekie Pie:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- If you don't have pearl barley, you can substitute with another grain like rice or even potatoes.
- Add a splash of sherry or white wine to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- Don't overcook the leeks, as they can become mushy.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or lentils.
Variations:
- Spicy Cock-a-Leekie Pie: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
- Creamy Cock-a-Leekie Pie: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before baking.
- Cock-a-Leekie with Prunes: Traditionally, prunes are added to Cock-a-Leekie for sweetness and depth. Add ½ cup pitted prunes to the filling during the simmering stage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise estimate based on your specific ingredients. However, expect it to be a good source of protein and fiber, relatively low in fat, and a comforting source of warmth and nutrients.
Enjoy your homemade Cock-a-Leekie Pie! It's a perfect example of delicious, healthy, and easy recipes that are perfect for any occasion. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, representing the best of easy recipes and homemade comfort food.