Slow Cooker Chicken & Sweetcorn Filo Pie

Can you make chicken and sweetcorn pie in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the creamy chicken and sweetcorn filling in a slow cooker. The slow cooker gently cooks the chicken until tender and allows the flavours to develop. The filo pastry is added afterwards and baked in the oven so it becomes golden and crisp.

Can I use chicken breast for slow cooker chicken pie?

Yes, chicken breast works well in this slow cooker chicken pie. For the best results, avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Chicken thighs are another good option and tend to stay particularly tender during slow cooking.

Can I use frozen sweetcorn in chicken and sweetcorn pie?

Yes, frozen sweetcorn is suitable for this recipe. There is usually no need to defrost it first. You can add the frozen sweetcorn to the slow cooker and allow it to heat through with the chicken and creamy sauce.

Can I use tinned sweetcorn instead of frozen?

Yes. Tinned sweetcorn works perfectly well in a chicken and sweetcorn pie. Drain it well before adding it to the filling. It is a convenient option if you already have a tin in the cupboard.

How do you make filo pastry crispy on a pie?

For crisp filo pastry, brush or lightly spray each sheet with melted butter or oil before layering it over the filling. Avoid covering the pastry tightly, as filo needs dry heat to become crisp and golden. Bake the pie in a hot oven/grill until the pastry is beautifully golden and crunchy.

Can you put filo pastry in a slow cooker?

When the slow cooker chicken pie mixture is fully cooked, top it with filo pastry then add the slow cooker pot to the grill to crisp it up.

Can I make this chicken and sweetcorn pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sweetcorn filling ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge. When you are ready to serve, add the filo pastry and bake until piping hot and golden. This makes it a useful option for a busy weeknight or when cooking for guests.

Can I freeze chicken and sweetcorn pie?

The chicken and sweetcorn filling can be frozen, but filo pastry is generally best when freshly baked. For the best texture, freeze the filling separately and add fresh filo pastry when you are ready to cook the pie. Make sure the filling is completely cooled before freezing.

How long does chicken and sweetcorn pie last in the fridge?

Once cooled, leftover chicken and sweetcorn pie can usually be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in a covered container and make sure it is thoroughly reheated before serving. Only reheat leftovers once.

How do I reheat chicken and sweetcorn pie?

For the best results, reheat chicken and sweetcorn pie in the oven rather than the microwave. This helps the filo pastry stay crisp. Cover loosely with foil if the pastry is browning too quickly, and make sure the filling is piping hot all the way through before serving.

What can I serve with chicken and sweetcorn filo pie?

This pie is delicious served with simple sides such as steamed vegetables, peas, broccoli, green beans or a fresh salad. For a comforting family dinner, you could also serve it with mashed potatoes or new potatoes.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken to make this pie?

Yes, leftover cooked chicken can be used. Since the chicken is already cooked, it does not need the same amount of slow-cooking time as raw chicken. Add the cooked chicken towards the end so it has time to warm through without becoming dry.

Can I make this recipe without cream?

Yes. If you prefer not to use cream, you can make a creamy sauce using milk and a little flour or cornflour to thicken it. The exact substitute will depend on the recipe, but the aim is to create a thick filling that will sit nicely underneath the filo pastry.

How do I thicken chicken pie filling?

If your chicken pie filling is too thin, mix cornflour with a small amount of water from the liquid in the slow cooker to make a smooth slurry. Stir it into the hot filling and allow it to cook for a few minutes until thickened. Add a little at a time so you do not make the filling too thick.

Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs?

Yes, chicken thighs are an excellent choice for slow cooker chicken pie. They contain more fat than chicken breast, which helps keep the meat tender and juicy during slow cooking. Remove the skin and bones if using bone-in thighs, or use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for convenience.

Is slow cooker chicken and sweetcorn pie suitable for a family dinner?

Yes, this is a comforting family-friendly dinner that is easy to prepare. The creamy chicken, sweetcorn and crisp filo pastry work particularly well together, and you can serve the pie with vegetables for a complete meal.