Chicken and Mushroom Pie

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken and Mushroom Filling**
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until they release their moisture and become tender.

#### 2. **Create the Creamy Sauce**
Once the mushrooms are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Add the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly for about 3 minutes.

Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Once the sauce has reached a creamy consistency, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

#### 3. **Assemble the Pie**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roll out the first sheet of puff pastry and fit it into a pie dish, trimming any excess pastry from the edges. Make sure the pastry covers the bottom and sides of the dish, pressing it gently into the corners.

Pour the chicken and mushroom filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.

Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry and place it on top of the filling. Trim any excess pastry and pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie. For a decorative touch, you can use the excess pastry to create small shapes (like leaves) to place on top of the pie.

#### 4. **Egg Wash and Baking**
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and brush it over the top of the pie to give it a golden, shiny finish when baked.

Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes, as oven times may vary. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until the pie is fully cooked.

#### 5. **Serve and Garnish**
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh, herby flavor. Slice and serve this comforting pie with a side of salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

### Why Chicken and Mushroom Pie Is the Ultimate Comfort Food:

– **Hearty and Satisfying**: This pie is packed with tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that fills you up while offering a delightful mix of textures. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any season.
– **Rich and Creamy Flavor**: The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a velvety, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms and juicy chicken. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming it.
– **Golden, Flaky Crust**: The puff pastry creates a buttery, crispy exterior that holds the creamy filling inside. The contrast between the flaky crust and the creamy filling makes every bite irresistible.
– **Versatile**: While this Chicken and Mushroom Pie makes an excellent dinner, it’s also perfect for meal prep or as a savory dish for a cozy weekend gathering. Serve it with a light side salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with mashed potatoes for an extra comforting touch.

### Tips for Success:
– **Homemade Crust**: If you prefer a homemade pie crust, you can easily swap out the store-bought puff pastry with your favorite pie dough recipe. Just be sure to blind-bake the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling to avoid a soggy bottom.
– **Add Some Vegetables**: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the filling for more variety and color. These additions bring extra nutrients and flavor to the dish.
– **Make-Ahead Option**: This pie can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it. You can also freeze it before baking—just be sure to let it cool before storing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, cook straight from frozen, but extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes.
– **Use Leftover Chicken**: If you have leftover cooked chicken from a roast or another meal, this is the perfect way to use it up. Simply shred or chop the chicken and incorporate it into the filling for a quick, easy dinner.

### Final Thoughts:
**Chicken and Mushroom Pie** is the definition of cozy comfort food. With its tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and rich, creamy filling, all encased in a flaky, golden pastry, this dish is a guaranteed winner. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or just when you need a dish that feels like a warm hug. Easy to make yet elegant in its flavors, this pie will become a staple in your comfort food rotation—no matter the occasion!