The first whiff of spices sizzling on the stove can transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with laughter and warmth. That’s exactly what happens when I make these homemade Butter Chicken Pies—each bite encapsulates the beloved flavors of traditional butter chicken, enveloped in a flaky, golden crust that’s simply irresistible.
This recipe strikes a perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet dining, making it equally suited for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion with friends. Picture crispy pastry giving way to a rich, creamy filling that dances on your palate; it’s a culinary hug that brings people together, whether you opt for individual portions or one large family-sized pie.
Let’s dive into this delicious creation that’s sure to elevate any meal, while being delightfully easy to make. Grab your apron, and let’s bring the heart of Kiwi cuisine into your home with these savory Butter Chicken Pies!
Why will you adore Homemade Butter Chicken Pies?
Irresistible aroma: As they bake, your kitchen will be filled with the enchanting scent of spices and buttery goodness, making dinner a special event.
Quick & easy: The straightforward process lets you whip up these pies with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Comfort in every bite: The flaky pastry combined with the creamy filling offers a satisfying texture that will leave everyone wanting more.
Versatile serving options: Whether you choose personal-sized pies or one big family pie, these are great for any occasion—dinner parties, potlucks, or cozy weeknight dinners!
A fun cooking experience: Get the family involved by having everyone help with filling the pies or selecting their favorite design for the crust.
For more delicious meal ideas, check out our perfect side dishes, like Hasselback Potatoes that complement these pies beautifully.
Homemade Butter Chicken Pies Ingredients
For the Pie Filling
- Chicken Breast – Main protein source; provides a tender and juicy filling. Can substitute with pre-cooked or leftover shredded chicken for convenience.
- Olive Oil – Used for cooking chicken and adds moisture.
- Onion – Provides a tasty base for the gravy; finely diced for even cooking.
- Garlic & Ginger – Aromatics that bolster flavor intensity, elevating your homemade butter chicken pies.
- Garam Masala, Ground Coriander, Ground Cumin, Paprika, Salt, Cinnamon, Sugar – Spice blend that adds depth and warmth to the filling.
- Tomato Paste – Contributes acidity and richness to the gravy.
- Plain Flour – Thickens the gravy for that perfect consistency.
- Water – Adjusts the consistency of the gravy; added gradually.
- Cream – Adds richness and creaminess; replace with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Butter – Enhances flavor in the gravy; essential for richness.
For the Crust
- Puff Pastry – Forms the flaky crust; can use store-bought for ease.
- Egg – Whisked for egg wash; gives a golden color to the crust.
Each ingredient contributes uniquely to the overall flavor and texture of these delicious homemade Butter Chicken Pies, making them a standout comfort dish!
How to Make Homemade Butter Chicken Pies
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Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts in half, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper for a flavorful start. This will enhance the taste of your filling.
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Sear Chicken: Heat a frying pan and sear the chicken until cooked through, usually around 5-7 minutes on each side. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding.
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Sauté Onion: In the same pan, add diced onion and sauté in butter until softened, about 4-5 minutes. This forms the aromatic base for the gravy.
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Mix Spices: Stir in the garam masala, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and tomato paste, cooking briefly for about 2 minutes. This will create a flavorful aroma.
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Make Gravy: Add the remaining butter, then sprinkle in the plain flour; mix well to combine. Gradually add water, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in Cream: Once thickened, fold in the cream and cook on low heat for a couple of minutes to meld flavors together. The gravy should be rich and creamy.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan bake) and grease pie dishes to prevent sticking.
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Combine Chicken and Gravy: Shred the cooled chicken and mix it into the gravy, ensuring it’s well coated and flavorful. This is your delicious filling!
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Assemble Pies: Line pie dishes with puff pastry, fill with the chicken mixture, then cover with another layer of pastry. Seal edges to lock in the deliciousness.
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Bake: Brush the tops with egg wash for a shiny finish and bake for about 40 minutes, until golden brown. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen fills with their irresistible aroma.
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Butter Chicken Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken and make the gravy, then let it cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container. The puff pastry can also be cut and shaped, ready to assemble when you’re set to cook. To maintain the pastry’s flakiness, avoid preparing the pies too far in advance; instead, assemble them just 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, fill the pastry with the chilled mixture, seal, brush with egg wash, and bake until golden. This ensures you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Homemade Butter Chicken Pies Variations
Customize your homemade Butter Chicken Pies to fit your taste and dietary needs, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
- Dairy-Free: Replace the cream with coconut cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative that still offers a creamy texture.
- Vegetable Boost: Fold in diced vegetables like peas, carrots, or even spinach to add color and nutrition to your filling.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level and excite your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness that complements the spices beautifully.
- Leftover Magic: Use leftover rotisserie chicken or shredded turkey as a quick swap for the chicken, making this recipe even easier.
- Flaky Twist: Use a mixture of puff pastry and phyllo dough for a flaky, crispy texture that adds an interesting spin on the classic pie crust.
- Sweet Addition: Mix in a handful of raisins or cranberries for a touch of sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with savory flavors.
- Family-Sized Option: Instead of individual pies, make one large family pie for a delightful centerpiece at your dinner table, buttery and inviting!
Expert Tips for Homemade Butter Chicken Pies
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Cool the Gravy: Let the filling cool slightly before assembling. This prevents soggy pastry, ensuring a flaky crust.
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Prevent Freezer Burn: If freezing uncooked pies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to avoid freezer burn.
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Fresh Spices Matter: Use fresh spices for the best flavor in your homemade Butter Chicken Pies. Old spices can dull the taste.
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Pastry Technique: When sealing the edges, press firmly to avoid leaks during baking, keeping all that delicious filling inside.
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Golden Finish: Brush the pastry with egg wash just before baking for a glossy, golden finish that looks professionally made.
What to Serve with Homemade Butter Chicken Pies?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that complement the rich flavors of your butter chicken creation.
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Crispy Garden Salad: A refreshing side with crisp greens and a zesty lemon dressing perfectly balances the rich, creamy pies.
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Garlic Butter Naan: Soft and fluffy naan brushed with garlic butter offers a warm, comforting option that can scoop up any leftover filling.
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Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies add a touch of earthiness, enhancing the complex spices of the pies.
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Mint Yogurt Dip: Cool and tangy, this dip lightens the meal while adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
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Spiced Basmati Rice: Fluffy rice infused with aromatic spices serves as a beautiful base, soaking up the delicious gravy from the pies.
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Mango Chutney: A sweet and spicy chutney brings a burst of tangy flavor, offering a delightful contrast to the savory taste of butter chicken.
Each of these sides not only complements the homemade butter chicken pies but also creates a wonderfully inviting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Butter Chicken Pies
- Fridge: Cooked pies can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container; reheat until piping hot before serving to enjoy their delicious flavors again.
- Freezer: Uncooked homemade Butter Chicken Pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. Bake from frozen for a quick meal!
- Reheating: For leftover baked pies, reheat in the oven at 180°C for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.
- Packing Tips: If you’re storing single-serve pies, place parchment paper between them to keep them from sticking together when frozen; it makes serving a breeze later on!
Homemade Butter Chicken Pies Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender and juicy filling. You can also substitute with pre-cooked or leftover shredded chicken if you’re looking for a quicker option.
How do I store leftover pies?
Cooked homemade Butter Chicken Pies can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply place them in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat until piping hot.
Can I freeze uncooked pies?
Yes, you can! Uncooked pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake them, just pop them straight into the oven from frozen—no need to thaw!
What should I do if my crust is soggy after baking?
If you find your crust soggy, it might be due to too much moisture in the filling. Here’s a step-by-step: let your gravy cool down before filling the pastry to prevent excess steam from making it soggy. Also, consider adding a layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the pastry before adding the filling, which can help absorb moisture.
Can I make these pies dairy-free?
Very! For a dairy-free version, simply replace the cream with coconut cream in your filling. This not only retains that luscious texture but also adds a delightful hint of coconut flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
Is there a way to spice it up if I like it hot?
Certainly! If you enjoy a bit of heat in your Butter Chicken Pies, consider adding some chopped fresh green chilies or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the filling. Start with a small amount and increase to your taste to find that perfect heat balance!
Devour These Irresistible Homemade Butter Chicken Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts in half, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a frying pan and sear the chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Let rest, then shred.
- Sauté Onion: In the same pan, add diced onion and sauté in butter until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Mix Spices: Stir in garam masala, ground coriander, ground cumin, paprika, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and tomato paste; cook for about 2 minutes.
- Make Gravy: Add remaining butter, sprinkle in flour; mix well. Gradually add water, stirring until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in Cream: Once thickened, fold in cream and cook on low heat for a couple of minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (fan bake) and grease pie dishes.
- Combine Chicken and Gravy: Shred cooled chicken and mix into gravy.
- Assemble Pies: Line pie dishes with puff pastry, fill with chicken mixture, cover with pastry and seal edges.
- Bake: Brush tops with egg wash and bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown.