What’s the difference between a shepherd’s pie and a cottage pie?

Shepherds pie is traditionally made with ground lamb, while cottage pie uses ground beef. Chicken shepherds pie is a modern twist that swaps in tender cooked chicken, making it lighter and often more family-friendly.

What’s in Gordon Ramsay’s shepherds pie?

Gordon Ramsay’s version typically includes ground lamb, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, and mashed potatoes piped in decorative swirls. While it’s rich and classic, chicken shepherds pie offers a simpler, lighter variation that still delivers big flavor.

Why do people put ketchup on shepherds pie?

Some enjoy ketchup for the sweet-tangy contrast it brings to the savory filling. While not traditional, it’s a popular comfort food pairing. If you try ketchup on your chicken shepherds pie, add it after baking—not during.

How do you stop mashed potatoes from sinking in shepherds pie?

Let the filling cool slightly before adding the mashed topping. This reduces steam and helps maintain layers. Also, ensure the gravy is thick enough—too thin and your mashed potatoes will collapse into the filling. These tips apply equally to chicken shepherds pie.

Chicken Shepherds Pie – 5-Star Comfort Recipe You’ll Crave

Name: Chicken Shepherds Pie Recipe – Comfort Food Made Easy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk (warmed); 3 tbsp unsalted butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A lighter twist on a comfort food classic, this chicken shepherds pie features shredded chicken, tender veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked shredded chicken

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small yellow onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup diced carrots

1 cup frozen peas

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

1 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)

1 tsp dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

1/2 cup milk (warmed)

3 tbsp unsalted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Sauté onions and carrots in olive oil until soft, about 5–6 minutes.

3. Add garlic, cook for 1 more minute.

4. Stir in flour, then slowly whisk in broth and cream. Season and simmer.

5. Add chicken and peas, stir and remove from heat.

6. Boil potatoes until fork-tender, drain, and mash with butter and milk.

7. Layer chicken mixture in baking dish, top with mashed potatoes.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden.

9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This recipe is a perfect use for leftover or rotisserie chicken. For added flavor, try mixing sharp cheddar into the mashed potatoes before baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 470mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 95mg