Italianized Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

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Italianized Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

History

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British dish traditionally made with minced lamb and topped with mashed potatoes. It dates back to the late 1700s and early 1800s when peasant housewives sought to make use of leftover roasted meat. The dish evolved over time, with regional variations including the use of beef, leading to the term “Cottage Pie.” This Italianized version incorporates flavors of Italian cuisine, featuring chicken, tomato sauce, and Italian herbs, providing a delightful fusion of culinary traditions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (120g) diced carrots
  • 1 cup (120g) peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Mashed Potato Topping

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 1/4 cup (60g) butter
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Filling

  1. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the diced carrots, tomato sauce, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  4. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the sauce has thickened. Add the peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Preparing the Mashed Potato Topping

  1. Boil Potatoes: In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the potatoes.
  2. Mash Potatoes: In the same pot, add the butter and milk to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Assembling the Shepherd’s Pie

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Layer the Dish: Spread the chicken filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the filling completely.
  3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Benefits

  • High in Protein: Ground chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like carrots and peas add vitamins A and C, as well as dietary fiber, promoting good digestion and overall health.
  • Comforting and Nutritious: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and savory chicken filling offers a comforting meal that’s also nutritionally balanced.
  • Flavorful and Satisfying: The Italian herbs and Parmesan cheese add a delightful depth of flavor, making this dish both satisfying and delicious.

Conclusion

This Italianized Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is a wonderful blend of British and Italian culinary traditions, offering a unique twist on a classic comfort food. It’s an ideal dish for family dinners, combining rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy the hearty, flavorful meal with the added bonus of its nutritional benefits.

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