Cozy Comfort in a Dish: Rotisserie Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

Chicken

A fast, comforting shepherd’s pie that swaps ground meat for shredded rotisserie chicken perfect for busy weeknights, using pantry staples and leftover chicken to create a hearty, family-friendly casserole. Ready in about 45 minutes, this recipe balances savory vegetables, a rich gravy, and creamy mashed potato topping for a cozy one-dish meal.

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

Filling

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh)
  • 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
  • 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (dark and white meat combined)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Mashed potato topping

  • 2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup milk (more if needed) or half-and-half
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar (optional)
  • 1 egg yolk (optional)

Optional garnish

  • Chopped fresh parsley or chives

Equipment

  • 9×9-inch or similar baking dish (or individual ramekins)
  • Large skillet
  • Medium pot for potatoes
  • Potato masher or ricer

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook the potatoes: place potato chunks in a pot, cover with cold salted water, bring to a boil, and simmer 12–15 minutes until tender. Drain well.
  3. Make the mashed potatoes: return potatoes to the pot, add butter and milk, mash until smooth. Stir in Parmesan if using, season with salt and pepper, and mix in egg yolk if using. Set aside.
  4. Prepare the filling: heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and carrots; cook 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  5. Add tomato paste and stir to coat; cook 1 minute. Sprinkle flour and cook 1–2 minutes.
  6. Gradually stir in chicken broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and simmer until slightly thickened, 3–4 minutes.
  7. Add shredded chicken, peas, and corn. Stir and heat through. Adjust seasoning. Add a splash of broth if too thick.
  8. Assemble: transfer filling to baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over and spread evenly. Add fork texture on top if desired.
  9. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Broil 2–3 minutes for extra browning.
  10. Rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or chives and serve warm.

Quick tips and substitutions

  • Rotisserie chicken: any cooked chicken works leftovers, poached, or store-bought rotisserie.
  • Vegetables: add mushrooms, celery, green beans, or bell pepper; use mashed cauliflower for low-carb.
  • Gluten-free: use gluten-free flour or a cornstarch slurry.
  • Dairy-free: use plant-based butter and milk; nutritional yeast can replace cheese.
  • Creamier filling: add a splash of cream or cream cheese.

Make-ahead and storage

  • Make-ahead: prepare filling and mashed potatoes up to 2 days ahead; assemble before baking.
  • Freezing: assemble and freeze up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) 45–60 minutes covered, then uncover to brown.
  • Leftovers: store 3 days in fridge; reheat in microwave or 350°F (175°C) oven.

Serving suggestions

  • Crisp green salad
  • Roasted Brussels sprouts
  • Simple steamed greens
  • Add mustard or hot sauce for brightness

Nutrition estimate (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 30 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 4 g

Frequently asked questions

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes instead of making new ones?
Yes. Spread leftover mashed potatoes on top and bake as directed.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom?
Cook vegetables well, thicken filling properly, and avoid adding excess broth.

Can I make individual servings?
Yes divide into ramekins and bake 12–18 minutes.

Why this recipe works
Using rotisserie chicken saves time while delivering rich flavor. The combination of creamy potatoes and a seasoned, thickened filling creates classic shepherd’s pie comfort with fewer steps perfect for busy cooks and family meals.

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