Chicken Or Turkey Pie
A comforting chicken or turkey pie featuring a creamy white sauce, grated cheese, and diced vegetables, baked to perfection. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying meal with a savory profile that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make a white sauce by melting the shortening in a saucepan.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and pepper to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Add the diced chicken to the sauce and cook until heated through.
- Stir in the grated cheese and diced celery.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions or garlic to the roux. If you're out of shortening, butter or margarine can be used as substitutes. To make a lighter version, swap half the cheese for Greek yogurt. This pie is versatile; feel free to include leftover vegetables or herbs to enhance the taste, much like in Chicken Lickin' Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken or Turkey Pie pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added comfort, serve it alongside Wedding Potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A light white wine can complement the flavors well and make for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven will keep the crust crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Or Turkey Pie contains roughly 366 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2131mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe. Just ensure it's shredded or diced into small pieces for even heating. This is an excellent way to utilize holiday leftovers and create a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
What can I do if I don’t have milk?
If you're out of milk, you can substitute it with chicken broth, almond milk, or even a mix of water and sour cream for a creamy texture. Each alternative will slightly alter the flavor, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Chicken or Turkey Pie gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the shortening and cheese you use are also gluten-free. This adjustment will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this comforting dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).