This Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is a warm, comforting dish made with juicy chicken, mixed veggies, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
Using rotisserie chicken makes it super quick to put together. I love how it makes dinner easy, and my family can’t resist that fluffy potato topping—it’s a hit every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of the dish, providing flavor and protein. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, cooked chicken breast or thighs work well too. You can even use leftover turkey if it’s available!
Mixed Vegetables: I love using frozen mixed vegetables for their convenience. If you prefer fresh, feel free to chop up your own veggies like carrots, peas, and corn. You can also skip certain veggies if you’re not a fan.
Mashed Potatoes: Store-bought is perfectly fine, but homemade mashed potatoes taste so much better! If you want a healthier option, try substituting cauliflower mash instead for a lighter topping.
Butter & Flour: The butter helps create a rich roux, while flour thickens the filling. If you’re avoiding gluten, use cornstarch instead of flour, or a gluten-free flour blend works nicely here.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is great for controlling salt levels. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, just make sure it’s flavorful!
How Do You Make a Creamy Filling without Clumps?
The key to a smooth filling lies in properly making your roux. After melting the butter and adding flour, it’s important to constantly stir for 1-2 minutes. This helps cook out the raw flour taste. Then, slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk while stirring continuously. Being patient here pays off with a creamy texture!
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning the flour.
- Once the broth is added, keep stirring until no lumps remain.
- If you find clumps in the mixture, using an immersion blender can help smooth it out.
Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a deliciously creamy shepherd’s pie filling! Enjoy the comforting blend of flavors!
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups mashed potatoes (prepared or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’ll need around 40 minutes to enjoy your homemade Shepherd’s Pie.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to bake your pie perfectly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add your chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until they are softened and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute—just until you can smell its delicious aroma!
3. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the flour. Stir it in and cook for about 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly. This forms a roux, which helps thicken the filling. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk (or cream). Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and is smooth. Season this mix with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Filling:
Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and frozen mixed vegetables. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the filling is heated through and the vegetables are tender. Then, transfer this delicious mixture into a baking dish.
5. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
Evenly spread the mashed potatoes over the top of your chicken and vegetable mixture, using a spatula to smooth the surface. If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potato layer.
6. Bake the Pie:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling beneath.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let your Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes. To finish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal!
Dig in and savor this delightful, homemade Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie! Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in!
Can I Use Store-Bought Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Store-bought mashed potatoes are a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for heating them up before spreading them over the chicken mixture.
What Other Vegetables Can I Use?
Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorites! Chopped bell peppers, green beans, or even spinach can make delicious additions. Just remember to chop them into small, uniform pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
You can make this dish lighter by using low-fat milk instead of cream and opting for a lower-fat cheese or omitting the cheese altogether. Additionally, you can substitute the mashed potatoes with whipped cauliflower for a lower-carb version!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes! Allow the Shepherd’s Pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
