Shepherd's Pie with chicken

Shepherd's Pie with Chicken

Shepherd's Pie is a classic dish known for its comforting culinary qualities and rich flavors. Although the traditional recipe is often made with lamb or beef, today I will present a delicious variation with chicken, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. This recipe is simple to prepare, and the result is a savory mix of meat and mashed potatoes that will delight any food lover.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 large chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 2 green garlic stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if desired)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato sauce
- 6-7 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 200g sheep or goat cheese, grated
- 100g cheese, grated
- Olive oil, for greasing the dish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into small cubes for even cooking. In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onion, carrot, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. This step will add a delicious aromatic base to the dish.

2. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the diced chicken, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add the tomato sauce and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. You can use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces if you prefer.

3. Preparing the mashed potatoes: Meanwhile, boil the peeled and diced potatoes in salted water. Cook them for 15-20 minutes until tender. After boiling, drain them and add a cube of butter, salt, and if necessary, a little milk to achieve a creamy mash. Add the chopped green onions and grated cheese. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients.

4. Assembling the Shepherd's Pie: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Grease a ceramic or Pyrex dish with a little olive oil. Add the chicken mixture to the dish, spreading it evenly. Use a spatula to ensure there are no large chunks of liquid left. Then, spread the mashed potatoes over the meat evenly. You can use a fork to create small patterns on the surface, which will brown nicely in the oven.

5. Baking: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the mashed potatoes. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and crispy.

6. Serving: After removing from the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes before cutting it into portions. Shepherd's Pie is excellently served with a mixed salad or seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can add a handful of peas or finely chopped celery stalks to the meat mixture to introduce more vegetables into the dish. This will not only enhance the flavors but also add extra nutrients.
- Cheese: If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- For an even creamier mash: Instead of milk, you can use cream or coconut milk to add an exotic touch.
- Recommended drinks: This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a pale ale, which will balance the rich flavors of the food.

Nutritional benefits:

Shepherd's Pie with chicken is a balanced meal, rich in protein due to the chicken, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and vitamins from the vegetables. This recipe provides a good portion of essential nutrients, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use turkey meat? Absolutely! Turkey meat is an excellent alternative and will provide a similar taste.
2. How can I make the recipe lower in calories? You can reduce the amount of butter in the mash and use low-fat cheese.
3. Can I prepare Shepherd's Pie in advance? Certainly! You can prepare the meat mixture and the mash, assemble them, and keep them in the fridge. When you want to serve, bake it directly from the fridge; it may take a little longer in the oven.
4. Is this recipe suitable for children? Yes, it is a dish that, due to its pleasant taste, is loved by little ones. Make sure to adjust the spices according to their preferences.

With a mix of tradition and personal adaptation, Shepherd's Pie with chicken becomes not just a delicious meal but also a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its flavors! Enjoy your meal!