As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing more enticing than the scent of a homemade pie wafting through the kitchen. This French Chicken and Mushroom Pie, or Tourte, is a delightful embrace of comfort food that transforms leftover chicken or turkey into something truly extraordinary. Picture a flaky, buttery crust enveloping a rich, creamy filling loaded with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and crispy bacon, all brought together with fragrant thyme and a hint of Dijon mustard.
It’s a dish that is both approachable and impressive, perfect for cozy dinners or a gathering of friends. Whether you’re looking to break away from tired takeout options or simply want to indulge in a hearty meal made with love, this Tourte showcases the magic of French cooking in a way that is satisfying and soul-warming. Join me in crafting this delightful pie that is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!
Why is French Chicken And Mushroom Pie (Tourte) irresistible?
Comforting Delight: This pie offers a hug in food form, with a delectable combination of creamy filling and flaky crust that promises to warm your soul.
Perfect For Leftovers: Transform leftover chicken or turkey into a savory masterpiece, reducing waste while maximizing flavor.
Customizable Recipe: Easily adapt to your dietary needs—select gluten-free pastry or swap in your favorite veggies for a vegetarian twist.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This impressive dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights, ensuring smiles all around.
Simplicity Meet Elegance: Despite its gourmet appearance, the cooking process is straightforward, making it an accessible dish for everyone from novice cooks to seasoned chefs.
French Chicken And Mushroom Pie Ingredients
• Feel free to use leftovers!
For the Filling
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provides the main protein for a chunky filling; leftover cooked chicken or turkey works wonderfully too (approximately 510g).
- Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the flavors of the filling; adjust to your preference for a personalized touch.
- Unsalted Butter (60g) – Adds richness and depth to the filling; plant-based butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Bacon (200g) – Infuses a smoky, savory flavor; consider turkey bacon for a leaner alternative.
- Mushrooms (450g, mixed types) – Offers earthiness and texture; seasonal mushrooms like chanterelles can be substituted.
- Onion (1 large) – Introduces a natural sweetness and depth; shallots can be swapped for a milder taste.
- Garlic (2 cloves) – Provides aromatic flavor; omit if you prefer a milder nuance.
- All-Purpose Flour (50g) – Thickens the sauce for a creamy texture; use a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
- Chicken Stock (195ml) – Delivers moisture and flavor; opt for low-sodium varieties for less salt.
- Milk (195ml, minimum 2%) – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; plant-based milk substitutes work for dairy-free preferences.
- Dijon Mustard (2 tbsp) – Adds tang and depth; reduce to 1 tsp or omit if you prefer a milder filling.
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Offers aromatic, herby notes; fresh thyme can substitute for more vibrant flavor.
For the Crust
- Ready-Rolled Puff Pastry (2 packets, 370g) – Forms the pie crust; homemade puff pastry can take your Tourte to the next level.
How to Make French Chicken and Mushroom Pie
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Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-1.5 inch pieces and season with salt and pepper. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to enhance its flavor as you prepare other ingredients.
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Cook Bacon: In a large frying pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat.
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Brown Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the same pan, cooking until it is mostly cooked through, which takes around 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and cover to keep warm as you move to the next step.
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Sauté Mushrooms: In the same pan, add the remaining butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the mixed mushrooms and sauté until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Set the mushrooms aside when done.
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Make Cream Sauce: Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the remaining fat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Combine Filling: Stir in the milk, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and the warm chicken. Mix well until everything is evenly coated and set aside to cool slightly.
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Assemble Pie: Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Line a 9-inch pie dish with parchment paper; place one sheet of puff pastry at the bottom leaving some overhang. Pour in the filling, then cover with a second sheet of pastry. Seal the edges by pressing them together and trim any excess.
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Prepare for Baking: Brush the top of the pastry with an egg wash (whisked egg) for a golden finish and cut a few slits to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until golden brown.
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Cool & Serve: Allow the pie to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing, letting the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring the filling sets slightly.
Optional: Serve with a light side salad to balance the richness of the pie.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze French Chicken and Mushroom Pie (Tourte)
- Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the pie fresh while maintaining its creamy filling and flaky crust.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the pie after it’s fully cooled for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes covered with foil. This ensures the French Chicken and Mushroom Pie remains moist and flavorful.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the pie out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain quality.
French Chicken And Mushroom Pie Variations
Feel free to explore new twists and make this dish your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter and milk with plant-based alternatives for a creamy yet dairy-free filling.
- Turkey Swap: Use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a delicious post-holiday pie. It’s a great way to minimize waste and savor holiday flavors!
- Mushroom Medley: Try an assortment of mushrooms like shiitake, portobello, or oyster for a gourmet filling. Different varieties will enrich the pie’s taste and texture, offering a delightful surprise.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with a mix of sautéed spinach, zucchini, or eggplant. This vibrant filling is perfect for those seeking a meat-free version while maintaining the pie’s hearty essence.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pastry for a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on the traditional flaky crust. The secret lies in choosing a good quality gluten-free blend that binds well!
- Heat it Up: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a spicy kick. This adds depth and warmth to each savory bite, making it a favorite for spice lovers.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of thyme. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile, filling your kitchen with beautiful aromas as it bakes.
- Mini Pies: Create individual tourtes using a muffin tin for adorable single servings. Adjust baking times accordingly to ensure perfectly golden, fluffy bites that are fun to serve!
What to Serve with French Chicken and Mushroom Pie (Tourte)?
As you savor each bite of this comforting pie, think about pairing it with the perfect sides that elevate your meal experience.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the pie’s richness, providing a refreshing crunch in every bite. The vibrant colors and textures make for an eye-catching presentation.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks spread with garlic and herbs bring warmth to the table. They’re perfect for dipping into any extra creamy filling left on your plate.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds a sweet flavor contrast to the savory pie. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky smooth mashed potatoes create a comforting plate, absorbing all those delicious flavors. Add a touch of garlic or herbs to tie them into the dish seamlessly.
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Caramelized Onions: Sweet and savory, caramelized onions can be served on the side, allowing guests to add as much as they want. Their depth of flavor enhances the overall experience of the meal.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A sparkling drink is not only festive but provides a sweet touch that cuts through the heaviness of the pie. The refreshing bubbles make it a delightful companion.
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Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with light and airy chocolate mousse. Its richness contrasts nicely with the savory pie, offering a decadent finish that guests will love.
Expert Tips for French Chicken and Mushroom Pie
- Thicken Filling: Ensure the filling is thickened properly before adding it to the pie shell; this step is crucial to avoid a soggy bottom crust.
- Quality Pastry: Choose a high-quality puff pastry for the best results; homemade options elevate the flavor and texture of the French Chicken and Mushroom Pie significantly.
- Protect the Crust: If the top browns too quickly during baking, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while allowing the pie to cook through.
- Check Baking Dish: The type of pie dish you use can affect the cooking time; a metal dish usually gives a better golden bottom crust than glass.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before cutting; this helps set the filling, making for neater slices.
Make Ahead Options
These French Chicken and Mushroom Pies (Tourte) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the creamy filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just sauté the chicken, bacon, and mushrooms as instructed, then mix everything together and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the crust, you can also roll out the puff pastry and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the pie, brush with egg wash, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a warm, homemade Tourte ready with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights!
French Chicken And Mushroom Pie (Tourte) Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the filling?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they provide a chunky and tender filling. However, using leftover cooked chicken or turkey is a fantastic way to save time and reduce waste!
How should I store leftover Tourte?
For the best storage, place leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy within 4 days. This keeps the pie fresh and allows the flavors to meld, creating an even more delicious dish when reheated!
Can I freeze French Chicken and Mushroom Pie?
Of course! To freeze, let the pie cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, covered with foil to keep the moisture in.
Why is my pie crust soggy?
Very! A soggy crust usually occurs if the filling hasn’t thickened enough before being added to the pie shell. I recommend making sure your cream sauce is bubbling and thick before pouring it in. Additionally, using high-quality pastry will also help achieve that perfectly flaky crust you’re aiming for.
Is this Tourte suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe easily. For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free puff pastry. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, replace milk and butter with plant-based alternatives!
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Very! Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms like chanterelles, shiitake, or even portobello for a unique flavor and texture. The more, the merrier! Enjoy the creative process with this adaptable recipe!
Ultimate French Chicken and Mushroom Pie Tourte Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-1.5 inch pieces and season with salt and pepper. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- In a large frying pan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon and set aside.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the same pan and cook until mostly cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and cover to keep warm.
- In the same pan, add the remaining butter and let it melt. Toss in the mixed mushrooms and sauté until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Set mushrooms aside.
- Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the remaining fat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle in the flour, stir to coat, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the milk, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and warm chicken. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Line a 9-inch pie dish with parchment paper; place one sheet of puff pastry at the bottom. Pour in the filling, then cover with a second sheet of pastry. Seal the edges and trim any excess.
- Brush the top of the pastry with an egg wash for a golden finish and cut a few slits to allow steam to escape. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool for about 15 minutes before slicing.