This Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy dish that mixes tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a simple way to turn leftovers into something special!
Using rotisserie chicken makes it super quick, and you can make it your own by adding any veggies you like. Trust me, the kids will love digging into this comforting meal! 🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken makes this dish quick and flavorful. If you don’t have it, any cooked chicken will work, or you can poach or bake fresh chicken breast and shred it.
Mashed Potatoes: Homemade is best for taste, but you can also use store-bought mashed potatoes for convenience. If you want a healthier twist, try mashed cauliflower instead!
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies are easy and convenient. Just thaw them! Fresh veggies like diced carrots or peas can also be used if you have them on hand.
Butter & Flour (for Roux): The roux thickens the sauce. If you want a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead of butter and cornstarch instead of flour, which is gluten-free.
Dried Herbs: Dried thyme and parsley add great flavor, but feel free to substitute with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs if you have them. Fresh herbs pack a stronger flavor!
How Do You Make the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Making a creamy sauce is simple, but it does require some attention. Here’s how to do it right and avoid clumps!
- Start by melting the butter in your skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s soft, about 4-5 minutes. This step builds flavor!
- Stir in the flour for 1-2 minutes, which helps to create a roux. Make sure to keep stirring to avoid burning.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Take your time, adding a bit at a time, and continue stirring until the sauce thickens. It should look creamy, not lumpy!
- Season well with herbs, salt, and pepper. A well-seasoned sauce is key to a tasty dish!
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 4 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn), thawed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Layer:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter, milk, salt, and pepper)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Time Needed:
This delicious Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be looking at around 40-45 minutes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s ready to cook your Shepherd’s Pie evenly.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 4-5 minutes. This is when your kitchen will start to smell wonderful! After that, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Roux:
Now, stir in the flour and cook it for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Keep stirring during this step to prevent burning and ensure it combines well with the butter and onions.
4. Create the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy. It should be smooth and delicious—don’t rush this part!
5. Season the Mixture:
Add in the dried thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good mix to incorporate all the flavors together.
6. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
Now it’s time to stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken and the thawed mixed vegetables. Make sure everything is well-coated with that lovely sauce.
7. Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into a baking dish or individual ramekins. Make sure it’s spread out evenly so that every bite is filled with goodness!
8. Add the Mashed Potatoes:
Spoon the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the chicken mixture. Spread and smooth the top to create a nice, even layer.
9. (Optional) Cheese It Up:
If you love cheese, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes—this adds a delicious cheesy layer!
10. Bake:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The aroma will be irresistible!
11. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch and extra flavor.
12. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your warm Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie and enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty dish! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken Instead of Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Any cooked chicken works great in this recipe. You can use leftovers from a previous meal or even poach some fresh chicken and shred it for this dish.
What If I Don’t Have Mashed Potatoes Prepared?
No worries! You can use instant mashed potatoes for ease or even make a quick batch at home. Simply boil peeled potatoes until tender, mash with butter and milk, and season to your taste.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Shepherd’s Pie for later enjoyment! Just let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the rotisserie chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies to enhance the flavor and texture!
