As I walked through a bustling Greek market, the scent of warm spices and fresh herbs filled the air, whisking me away to sunny afternoons spent with family. That’s when I discovered my passion for making the Best Greek Chicken Pie by Rick Stein, a dish that perfectly captures the essence of Greek comfort food. This traditional recipe envelops poached chicken and sweet caramelized onions in layers of crispy filo pastry, delivering a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to wow your dinner guests, but it also offers a cozy dining experience, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Can you resist the allure of such a savory masterpiece? Let’s dive into how to create this warm and inviting dish!

What makes this Greek Chicken Pie special?

Comforting Tradition: This recipe embraces the heart of Greek cuisine, spotlighting the joy of homemade food that warms the soul, making it a perfect addition to any family gathering.
Layered Delight: The crispy filo pastry not only gives this pie an enticing crunch but also adds a unique layer of texture that elevates each bite.
Flavor Fusion: With tender poached chicken and sweet caramelized onions, the flavor profile is rich yet balanced, creating a savory delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Heartwarming Appeal: Perfect for cozy nights or festive occasions, this pie offers a comforting sense of familiarity, much like a warm hug on a plate.
Versatile Recipe: Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or introduce veggies like spinach and feta for a delightful twist—options are endless!

If you love the warmth of savory pies, you might also enjoy the delightful Sticky Garlic Chicken or the flavorful Cheesy Dynamite Chicken that belong on your table!

The Best Greek Chicken Pie Ingredients

For the Filling

Onions – Provide sweetness and flavor to the filling; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Butter – Adds richness; olive oil can substitute for a dairy-free option.
Whole Chicken – Main protein, poached for moisture; boneless chicken thighs work for quicker prep.
Eggs – Bind the filling together; for a lighter version, you can omit them.

For the Seasoning

Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; substitute with white pepper for a milder taste.

For the Pastry

Filo Pastry – Creates a flaky crust; no direct substitute, but puff pastry can be used, affecting the texture.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and brushing filo; melted coconut oil works in a pinch.

Now, let’s embark on your culinary adventure to create the best Greek chicken pie by Rick Stein—where savory flavors and home-cooked goodness meet!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for The Best Greek Chicken Pie by Rick Stein

Step 1: Prepare Filling
In a large pot, melt butter and add chopped onions with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Next, place the whole chicken into the pot and cover it with water, then bring it to a gentle simmer. Poach the chicken on low heat for 1.5 hours, ensuring it remains submerged to keep the meat moist.

Step 2: Strain Liquid
After poaching, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and transfer it to a cutting board to cool. Strain out the broth through a fine sieve to catch any solid bits, then return the liquid to the pot. Increase the heat and reduce the broth until it thickens into a gelatinous stock, which will intensify the flavors of your filling.

Step 3: Shred Chicken
Once cool enough to handle, shred the poached chicken using two forks, discarding the bones and skin. Place the shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl. You’ll admire the tenderness of the meat, which will blend beautifully with the other ingredients. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite of the Best Greek Chicken Pie by Rick Stein is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Mix Filling
Add the strained onions from the pot to the bowl with your shredded chicken. Crack in the eggs and season generously with black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The filling should look rich and cohesive, ready to be enveloped by the flaky filo pastry.

Step 5: Prepare Pie Dish
Preheat your oven to 230°C (446°F) and prepare your pie dish by greasing it with a bit of olive oil. Lay three sheets of filo pastry inside, brushing each layer with olive oil to create a crispy texture. Ensure the edges hang over the sides as you layer them—this will create a lovely crust when you fold it over later.

Step 6: Assemble Pie
Spoon the chicken mixture into the lined pie dish, spreading it evenly. Fold the overhanging edges of the filo pastry over the filling, tucking them in gently to form a neat border. Layer three more sheets of filo on top, again brushing with olive oil, making sure to cover the filling completely and create a gorgeous golden topping.

Step 7: Bake
Slide your assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 200°C (392°F), cut the pie into wedges, and bake for an additional 45 minutes until the pastry turns a deep golden brown. The aroma of the Best Greek Chicken Pie by Rick Stein will fill your kitchen and whet your appetite!

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once the pie is perfectly baked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-20 minutes; this resting period helps maintain its structure for easy slicing. Serve your warm Greek Chicken Pie to family and friends, and watch as they savor each flaky, savory bite.

Expert Tips for the Best Greek Chicken Pie

Keep it Moist: Always cover the chicken well while poaching to retain moisture. This ensures your filling remains tender and flavorful.
Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allow the pie to cool for 10-20 minutes before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner wedges.
Quality Matters: Use high-quality olive oil to brush the filo pastry; a better oil enhances the flavor of the Best Greek Chicken Pie.
Layering Filo: Brush olive oil between each layer of filo for optimum flakiness; this vital step results in a delightful crunch.
Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning! Properly seasoning your filling will elevate the overall taste of the pie and leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Greek Chicken Pies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling, including poached chicken and caramelized onions, up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the filling as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also layer the filo pastry in the pie dish, then assemble the filling just before baking to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to bake, just brush with olive oil and bake until golden brown, achieving restaurant-quality results with minimal effort! Enjoy your beautifully cooked Greek Chicken Pie, ready to impress your family at a moment’s notice.

What to Serve with Traditional Greek Chicken Pie

A delightful meal deserves equally delicious companions to create the perfect dining experience.

Greek Salad: A fresh combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, this salad adds a refreshing crunch that beautifully contrasts with the rich filling of the pie.
Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy garlic and cucumber dip enhances each bite of pie, adding a cool and tangy flavor that brightens the savory notes.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty yet healthy side, bringing an earthy sweetness that balances the richness of the Greek Chicken Pie.
Jasmine Rice: Fluffy, light rice absorbs any leftover flavors on the plate, making every forkful a joy and adding a lovely texture to the meal.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled over the pie or enjoyed on the side, its salty creaminess provides a contrast that ties beautifully into the flavors of the dish.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Staying hydrated is key; this effervescent drink adds a crispness that complements the meal, refreshing your palate between bites.
Baklava: The sweet, nutty layers of honey-soaked baklava make a lovely dessert to follow this hearty dish, concluding the meal on a sweet note.
Greek Yogurt with Honey: For a lighter dessert, this creamy treat topped with a drizzle of honey provides a satisfying end to your meal, echoing the flavors of the pie.

Variations & Substitutions for Greek Chicken Pie

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious recipe—let your inner chef shine and customize!

Turkey Swap: Use turkey instead of chicken for a delightful variation that’s just as tender and flavorful.
A twist on tradition, turkey brings a unique taste while offering a festive touch perfect for holidays!
Vegetarian Delight: Consider mixing in spinach and feta for a savory vegetarian option that bursts with Greek flavors.
The combination of earthy spinach and creamy feta creates a rich filling that satisfies without meat!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley to elevate the flavors and add a fresh aroma.
A sprinkle of herbs can brighten up the filling, enhancing the comforting experience with a refreshing twist!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of paprika for a touch of heat that’ll warm your taste buds.
A little spice can make every bite exciting, turning this classic comfort food into a zesty culinary experience!
Nutty Texture: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch and depth in flavor.
Nuts introduce a delightful texture contrast, enriching the filling with an extra layer of heartiness.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version that’s just as rich and flavorful.
You’ll still enjoy all the buttery goodness without any dairy, keeping everyone at the table happy!

If you’re loving these culinary adaptations, check out my tasty Mediterranean Chicken Gyros or whip up some comforting Sticky Garlic Chicken to savor!

How to Store and Freeze Greek Chicken Pie

Fridge: Refrigerate leftover Greek Chicken Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the pastry nice and flaky while preserving its savory filling.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie before baking, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adjusting the time as needed.

Reheating: To reheat, place leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. This maintains the comforting texture of the flaky crust and filling.

Thawing: If frozen, thaw the pie in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Enjoy the delightful layers of the Greek Chicken Pie just like freshly made!

The Best Greek Chicken Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of onions should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! While sweet onions are ideal for that rich flavor and sweetness, you can substitute them with shallots if you prefer a milder taste. Just make sure they’re finely chopped to blend well with the other ingredients.

How should I store leftovers of the Greek Chicken Pie?
Refrigerate any leftover pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain its flaky texture and savory filling. To enjoy the best taste and texture, I recommend reheating it in the oven, which allows the crust to regain its crispiness.

Can I freeze the Greek Chicken Pie?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap the assembled (but unbaked) pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, preventing freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake it directly from frozen, adjusting the time as necessary for thorough cooking.

What if my filo pastry tears while assembling the pie?
No worries! It’s very common for filo pastry to tear. If it happens, just patch it up with a small piece of the pastry and apply a bit of olive oil to seal it. The layers will still turn out beautifully crunchy after baking, and the filling will hold everything together.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This Greek Chicken Pie contains eggs and dairy due to the butter. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute butter with olive oil as mentioned in the recipe. Always check for any personal allergies, especially with ingredients like chicken and eggs, before serving to family or guests.

Can I use another type of meat instead of chicken?
Very much so! This recipe is versatile—substituting in turkey is a popular change for a different flavor and texture. For a vegetarian version, you can incorporate veggies like spinach and feta cheese or even a mix of legumes to create a satisfying filling, ensuring that everyone’s tastes are catered for!