Ground Chicken Cottage Pie with Parmesan Mash

Name: Ground Chicken Cottage Pie with Parmesan Mash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion (chopped); 2 leeks (sliced); 500 grams ground chicken; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped); 1 cup frozen peas; 1.2 kilograms potatoes (peeled and quartered); 1/2 cup milk (warmed); 3 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

60 min 6 servings Medium

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Ground Chicken Cottage Pie with Parmesan Mash

A lighter twist on cottage pie using ground chicken, leeks, and a Parmesan-infused mashed potato topping. Perfect for a comforting family meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Cottage pie is a classic comfort food, traditionally made with minced beef. This lighter version uses ground chicken, which not only reduces the fat content but also introduces a different, yet delicious flavour profile. The addition of leeks and thyme provides a fragrant aroma, while the Parmesan mash adds a touch of elegance and richness. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy traditional dishes but are looking for a healthier alternative. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes with a savoury chicken filling makes this dish a family favourite, perfect for a cozy evening at home.

Ingredients

Servings

For the filling

For the mashed potatoes

Instructions

Preheat and prepare potatoes

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.

Pro tip: Use a fork to check tenderness; it should easily pierce the potato.

Cook the filling

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and leeks, sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add chicken and seasonings

Add ground chicken to the skillet, cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, chicken broth, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Break up any large pieces of chicken with a spoon.

Incorporate peas

Stir in frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Pro tip: Ensure peas are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Mash the potatoes

Drain the potatoes and return to the pot. Mash with warmed milk, butter, and Parmesan until smooth.

Pro tip: Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gluey texture.

Assemble and bake

Spread the chicken filling in an ovenproof dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Pro tip: Use a fork to create texture on the mash for a crispy topping.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Use fresh thyme for the best flavour.</li><li>Ensure potatoes are well-drained before mashing.</li><li>Preheat your oven for even cooking.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

Serve the ground chicken cottage pie with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. The dish can be made ahead; simply prepare as directed, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To serve, reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until hot. Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.