Nigerian Chicken Pie Recipe

Have the most fun with your family and friends by dining over delicious, crispy, and savory Nigerian Chicken Pie!

Whenever you host occasions, you’re always looking for dishes everyone can enjoy. The Chicken Pie will give you a meaty, smoky filling inside and a crunchy, crispy crust outside.

I have tried many chicken recipes, but Nigerian Chicken Pie is definitely one of my personal favorites. Whenever we have celebrations in our home, I make sure to cook these chicken pies for everyone!

Nigerian chicken pie recipe

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You can trust that the Nigerian Chicken Pie will give all of your guests a wonderful time. Eating will surely be a satisfying experience for everyone. They might even be surprised that you cooked such an amazing meal by yourself!

How to Make Nigerian Chicken Pie

This delectable Nigerian-style Chicken Pie will surely take your plate to great heights of African cuisine. You will need effort and patience to make it, but every minute will be worth it.

But don’t worry because it’s easy to make, even on your first try!

NIGERIAN CHICKEN PIE RECIPE VIDEO

Ingredients

Let us begin with the ingredients for the African Chicken Pie.

Chicken

When it comes to pie fillings, the chicken is a top option!

I’ve tried so many pie recipes before, and chicken is always one of the best fillings. It’s easy to season, cook, and pair with other ingredients. Once cooked, you will see how juicy and flavorful it can be.

You can also use chicken for baking, roasting, grilling, stir-frying, and more! It also has plenty of parts that you can cook into delectable meals. I especially suggest using chicken breasts for boneless parts.

If you have leftover chicken, then you can cook it into Chicken Wings, Roast Chicken, or Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry!

Carrots

What better vegetable to pair with chicken than carrots, right?

You’ll need carrots to add a slightly sweet and earthy flavor to the dish. These will also give the dish a pop of color that will surprise everyone once you bite into the pie. Since they are crunchy, carrots will also give the filling an interesting feeling.

Aside from pairing carrots with chicken, you can also mix them with beef or turkey for the same flavor and quality. In fact, I add carrots to Meat Pie too.

Potatoes

Complement the tender and juicy quality of chicken with some potatoes.

Potatoes can add a fantastic texture to the filling. In other words, it’s starchy and sweet but not loaded with harmful sugars. These will also give you something creamy and thick to taste inside.

Don’t throw away your excess potatoes; convert them into luscious Mashed Potatoes instead!

Aromatics

Do not forget to add the onion and garlic, which give the chicken a spicy and exquisite flavor. They always kick dishes extra; this chicken pie is no exception. You can give your pies a fantastic aroma with pungent and peppery onions and garlic.

Liquid stock

Whenever I cook chicken or beef, I always set aside the liquid stock for other recipes. The liquid stock is infused with the meat’s natural flavors with the perfect fusion of herbs and spices.

In this recipe, the liquid stock intensifies the taste of the chicken filling and provides moisture for when the pie is baked. 

Thickener

It’s so easy to make thickener for pie fillings. Just mix flour and water to create a paste. The thickener will help bind all the ingredients together, keeping them intact as they bake in the oven. 

Herbs and spices

Seasoning is essential for meat meals. So, let’s use mixed herbs, curry powder, oregano, turmeric, stock cubes, and sea salt for a satisfying filling. You can also use other seasonings you want to taste in the pies.

Coconut oil

To sautee, use coconut or any other cooking oil available. It will cook the ingredients properly to give the filling the best flavors.

pie recipe

Now, let’s talk about what you need to make the pastry.

Plain flour

Start with the plain flour as the base ingredient of the pie crust. The gluten network from the flour will also make it flexible enough to mold and shape to make the pie. Depending on your preference, you can do small individual pies or a large one.

It’s guaranteed to give your pie a crunchy and crispy crust that you can bite into. The pie will also be golden brown once you bake it to perfection. You can also use it to make Chicken Pizza and Turkey Pie for the best crust.

Baking powder

Make the Chicken Pie as puffy as you can with baking powder. It helps give that extra rise to baked pastry. It also allows space inside the dough for the filling. This is a leavening agent for an airy pie. 

With the baking powder, you can ensure that you can put the filling inside without breaking the pie dough. I also use it for Meat Pies to get the best results.

Egg

It won’t be a pie recipe without an egg. You may be surprised that the egg will not be mixed into the dough. It’s going to be used to seal the filling into the dough and to glaze the pie before baking.

If you really want to give your pies the perfect golden brown finish, don’t forget to use it as a glaze!

Butter

Add butter to achieve a flaky and creamy pie dough with an incredible aroma. As it melts into the pie, you will notice how fragrant it can make the Chicken Pie. It also gives the pie the perfect golden brown finish.

In addition, it also helps retain the proper structure of the pie from preparation until it is baked. 

Seasoning

Add sea salt and nutmeg to the dough to add extra flavor. These condiments also prevent your pastry from tasting bland and stale. A little bit of seasoning will already go a long way.

homemade Nigerian chicken pie

Once you have prepared the ingredients, it’s time to make the Chicken Pie! It is the perfect time to make this if you’re hungry, stressed, or weary. 

Directions

Come and make Chicken Pie with me! I’ll guide you every step of the way.

For the filling

  1. Rinse and finely chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes with a knife.
  2. Season the soft chicken with the onions, garlic, mixed herbs, oregano, curry powder, paprika, turmeric, sea salt, and knorr cubes in a bowl.
  3. Cover with cling film and leave in the fridge for at least two hours or overnight.
  4. Cook the marinated chicken in a pot over medium heat until tender.
  5. After 15 minutes, take the chicken out and set the liquid stock aside; it will be needed later. 
  6. Chop the chicken into small chunks and set aside.
  7. Sautee the onion, garlic, and chicken chunks in a frying pan over medium heat.
  8. Then, add the diced carrots and potatoes.
  9. Season it with curry powder, a knorr cube, and chicken liquid stock.
  10. Cover and leave to cook until the carrots and potatoes are tender. 
  11. In a small bowl, add water and flour and mix until smooth.
  12. Pour the thickener into the pan.
  13. Leave to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  14. Once you’re happy with the flavor, set the mixture aside.

For the pastry

  1. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and butter in a bowl until crumbly.
  2. Gradually add water and stir. 
  3. Transfer some of the dough to a flat surface and knead with your hands or a mixer.
  4. Use a rolling pin to spread the dough.
  5. Then, use a whisk to beat an egg to seal the dough.
  6. Preheat the oven to 180°C for ten minutes. 
  7. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut out the dough in your preferred size and shape.
  8. Remove the excess dough.
  9. Place the filling on the dough and brush the edges with a pastry brush with the egg wash.
  10. Fold it over to close and press the openings using the back of a fork
  11. Arrange the chicken pies on the greased baking tray.
  12. Brush the whisked egg over the pastries.
  13. Poke the pies with a fork. 
  14. Leave the pies to bake for 30-35 minutes or until they turn slightly brown.
  15. Let them cool and serve! 

Wasn’t that as easy as pie? You’re not just leveling up your cooking; you’re also enhancing your pastry skills and enjoying and relaxing simultaneously! Bite into that perfectly baked chicken pie and tell me how delicious it is! 

how to make Nigerian chicken pie

Tips

Chicken

Buying chicken
  • Eating Well suggests buying chicken with pinkish flesh and unbruised skin.
  • Feel the texture and ensure that it is plump to the touch.
  • For packaged chicken, avoid ones with too much liquid inside.
  • It should also be odorless. 
  • It’s best to go for drumstick and thigh parts for chicken pies. 
Storing chicken
  • Immediately put the chicken in the fridge or freezer.
  • According to Gold n’ Plump, chicken can last up to two days when refrigerated and up to several weeks when frozen.
  • If you plan to put it in the fridge, then place it on the bottom shelf. 
Preparing chicken
  • According to Chicken Farmers of Canada, ensure you prepare the chicken in a clean and sanitized area.
  • Wash your hands and the materials you will be using. 
  • Moreover,  Food Network suggests cooking the chicken unwashed because washing it can attract more bacteria. 

Carrots

Buying carrots
  • Look for carrots that have deep orange skin.
  • The larger the carrot, the sweeter it will be.
  • Watch out for ones with cracks or molds.
  • The leaves should also be in a healthy green color. 
Storing carrots
  • Carrots can last up to four days at room temperature.
  • Cut out the leaves to prolong shelf life.
  • Store them in a resealable bag and refrigerate them to last up to four weeks or freeze them for up to eight months. 

Potatoes

Buying potatoes
  • The potatoes should have smooth skin and be firm to the touch.
  • Also, don’t purchase ones with unhealthy-looking skin and green discoloration. 
Storing potatoes
  • Potatoes at room temperature can last up to 2 weeks as long as they are in a cool and dry area.
  • They are not recommended for refrigeration because this can cause too much sweetness and discoloration. 
Nigerian meat pie recipe

How to Work on the Dough for Nigerian Chicken Pie

  • Use measured ingredients to make the best dough.
  • You can use your hands if you don’t have a mixer with a kneading attachment. 
  • Check the dough for doneness before rolling it out.
  • To check the dough for doneness, apply pressure with your finger. If it bounces back immediately, it is ready for use. 
  • To store, place the dough in a container with space for expansion.
  • For next-day use, freeze the dough. The dough can also be covered with cling film or stored in a resealable bag.

Nigerian Chicken Pie Variations

Do you want to make the Chicken Pie more exciting?

To make a vegan version of this pie, you can use fruits or other plant-based ingredients as the filling. Moreover, egg wash can be substituted with water to seal the pastry. You can also use turkey or meat for other filling options.

It is also okay to use gluten-free flour and butter for a healthier dough recipe. Feel free to omit or add ingredients as you prefer. Aside from the ingredients mentioned in this recipe, here are other foods you can include in your pie recipe:

  • Broccoli
  • Cheese
  • Bell peppers
  • Tomatoes
  • Squash
  • Zucchini
  • Leeks
  • Peas
  • Mushrooms
  • Celery
  • Cauliflower
  • Asparagus
  • Sweetcorn
  • Beans
  • Spinach
  • Pumpkin

No-Oven Nigerian Chicken Pie

Instead of baking the Chicken Pie, you can also cook it in the air fryer.

  1. Prepare the pie as discussed in this recipe.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C for a few minutes.
  3. Then, evenly distribute the pies in the air fryer basket.
  4. Cook the pies in the air fryer for about 20 minutes.
  • Stand mixer: Mix and knead the dough with a stand mixer.
  • Rolling pin: Roll the dough out using a rolling pin
  • Whisk: Use the whisk to beat the egg wash.
  • Pastry brush: Spread the egg wash on the pastry using a brush. 
  • Pan: Cooking the filling on a pan.
  • Bowl: Place the ingredients in a bowl. 
  • Spatula: Mix the elements of the dish with a spatula.
  • Knife: Slice the vegetables, dough, and chicken with a clean knife.
  • Pizza cutter: Slice and shape the dough using a pizza cutter.
  • Fork: Seal and decorate the edges of the dough with a fork. 
  • Cling film: Cover the chicken with cling film as it marinates.
  • Pot: Cook the filling in a pot.
  • Oven: Bake the Chicken Pie in the oven.
  • Baking tray: Arrange the pies on a baking tray to cook.

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chicken pie recipe

How to Serve Nigerian Chicken Pie

After making the Chicken Pie, you deserve some time to savor it!

You can serve Chicken Pie anytime you want, especially if you want to satisfy your appetite with a satiating meal. It’s easy to pack and even simpler to eat. You get a dose of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients in one bite. 

You can also serve it with any sauce or dip to your liking. It pairs well with juices like:

The best thing about it is you can make pie according to the number of guests, and each guest will have a pie of their own. Just be sure to make enough for everyone because they will surely love these pies.

If you have vegan or non-vegan visitors, then you can make ones with meat and fruit or vegetable fillings. Distribute them after they have cooled to retain the crunchy texture of the pastry. 

Want More Recipes? Check these out!

Storage Tips

  • At room temperature: Eat the Chicken Pie within two hours.

MAKE-AHEAD

In the fridge: Once baked, cover the pies with cling film and refrigerate them for five days. 

To freeze: Unbaked pie can be frozen for a day, but make sure to bake it as soon as possible. If baked, it can be frozen in freezer bags for up to several weeks. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What goes well with a chicken pie?

You can always serve chicken pie with side dishes like Mashed Potatoes, Plantain Fries, Corn on the Cob, Fried Yams, and more. Go with foods that won’t be too filling because the Chicken Pie is a hearty meal.

Is chicken pie junk food?

Not at all. Chicken pie is actually a healthy food that can give you a balanced diet because it gives you the nutrients of chicken, vegetables, and herbs.

Therefore, the dish can supply you with energy for a productive day while taking care of your heart, bones, eyes, and skin. Having said that, this pie should be eaten in moderation.

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10:31

It is also satisfying in that it can make you feel full for a longer period. This recipe can also aid in weight loss if you consume the pie in moderation. 

homemade pie recipe

Who invented Nigerian chicken pies?

Chicken Pie originated in Greece, where it was originally termed “artocreas”. When the Romans came, they added a top crust to the pie to seal in the flavors inside.

Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?

Yes, you can use puff pastry instead of pie crust. Both are excellent options for making the pie as long as you use baking powder for that wonderful rise in the pie crust.

African chicken pie

Chicken Pie

5 from 2 votes
Crusty on the outside, meaty, moist, and creamy on the inside. Assuredly, this Nigerian Chicken Pie will bring you warmth and satisfaction!
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 12
Course Snack
Cuisine African, Greek
Calories 189kcal

Ingredients
 
 

For the chicken

For the filling

  • 4 cooked chicken (2 thighs and 2 drumsticks) as shown above
  • 1 onion (diced)
  • 1 garlic clove (diced)
  • 1 carrot (diced)
  • 1 potato (diced)
  • ½ tsp curry powder
  • 1 stock cube (Knorr chicken)
  • 2 tbsp chicken broth (or chicken liquid stock)
  • 1 tbsp plain flour (all-purpose flour)
  • 187.5 ml water

For the pastry

Instructions
 

For the chicken filling

  • Rinse and finely chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes with a knife.
  • Season the soft chicken with the onions, garlic, mixed herbs, oregano, curry powder, paprika, turmeric, sea salt, and knorr cubes in a bowl.
  • Cover with cling film and leave in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • Cook the marinated chicken in a pot over medium heat until tender.
  • After 15 minutes, take the chicken out and set the liquid stock aside; it will be needed later. 
  • Chop the chicken into small chunks and set aside.
  • Sautee the onion, garlic, and chicken chunks in a frying pan over medium heat.
  • Add the diced carrots and potatoes.
  • Season it with curry powder, a knorr cube, and chicken liquid stock.
  • Cover and leave to cook until the carrots and potatoes are tender. 
  • In a small bowl, add water and flour and mix until smooth.
  • Pour the thickener into the pan.
  • Leave to simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  • Once you're happy with the flavor, set the mixture aside.

For the chicken pie

  • In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and butter until crumbly.
  • Gradually add water and stir. 
  • Transfer some of the dough to a flat surface and knead with your hands or a mixer.
  • Use a rolling pin to spread the dough.
  • Use a whisk to beat an egg to seal the dough.
  • Preheat the oven to 180°C for 10 minutes. 
  • Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut out the dough in your preferred size and shape.
  • Remove the excess dough.
  • Place the filling on the dough and brush the edges with a pastry brush with the egg wash.
  • Fold it over to close and press the openings using the back of a fork. 
  • Arrange the chicken pies on the greased baking tray.
  • Brush the whisked egg over the pastries.
  • Poke the pies with a fork. 
  • bake the pies for 30-35 minutes or until they turn slightly golden.
  • Let them cool and serve! 

Notes

  • Do not overfill the dough to prevent bursting.
  • You can air-fry the chicken pies instead of baking them.
  • Replace ingredients with elements that are more suitable for your diet.
  • The dough should not be too soft or too hard. Knead until the dough is firm and non-sticky.
  • Grease the oven tray with butter or oil to prevent the pie from sticking.
  • You can make use of store-bought pizza dough by cutting it into your desired sizes and shapes. Alternatively, use pita bread, puff pastry, or wraps instead.
 

Nutrition

Serving: 1 (of 12)Calories: 189kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 6gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 126mgPotassium: 181mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 884IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 27mgIron: 2mg
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