Chicken and Biscuit Pie: A Comfort Classic Reimagined

Chicken and biscuit pie is the culinary equivalent of a warm blanket on a cold day. It’s hearty, creamy, and topped with biscuits that are equal parts fluffy and golden. This dish has a magical way of making you feel like everything is going to be okay—even if you’re eating it straight from the dish while watching your favourite show. A cross between a casserole and a pie, it’s a meal that wears its charm on its sleeve. With its comforting layers and nostalgic appeal, it’s a dish that embodies both simplicity and sophistication, making it a go-to favourite for any occasion.

A Slice of History

Chicken and biscuit pie has its roots in Southern American cooking, where hearty, comforting meals are an art form. This dish evolved from a combination of old-fashioned chicken stew and flaky biscuits, blending the two into a baked masterpiece. While its origins are simple—a way to stretch ingredients and feed a crowd—it’s become a staple of potlucks, family dinners, and rainy day cravings.

The concept of biscuit-topped pies likely gained popularity during the Great Depression, when home cooks had to get creative with what was on hand. Instead of a full pastry crust, biscuits made from scratch or even from pre-mixed dough became the ideal topper. Fast, filling, and undeniably delicious, the dish has stood the test of time, evolving with changing tastes while holding onto its comforting roots.

Regional Twists

Chicken and biscuit pie has as many personalities as there are home kitchens. In the Deep South, it might feature buttermilk biscuits with a touch of lard for that unbeatable flakiness. These versions often incorporate a hint of black pepper or a touch of hot sauce in the filling for added warmth. In the Midwest, you’ll often find vegetables like green beans and corn tucked into the creamy filling, creating a more colourful and texturally rich experience.

Head north, and you might encounter a pie with a hint of sage or thyme, nodding to autumn’s flavours. In New England, a splash of cream and a sprinkling of fresh parsley add an extra touch of elegance. Some cooks swap out chicken for turkey, particularly around the holidays, while others add ham or smoked sausage for a smoky twist. The biscuit topping itself is a playground for creativity: cheddar cheese, jalapeños, or even herbs like chives can be incorporated for added flair. Whether you stick to tradition or throw in a modern twist, this pie remains a canvas for culinary creativity.

Drinks That Pair Perfectly

Chicken and biscuit pie pairs beautifully with a range of drinks. A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent choice, cutting through the creaminess with its acidity. If you’re a beer fan, a pale ale or a wheat beer offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For darker evenings, a malty brown ale or a spiced cider can add a layer of warmth and depth to the meal.

For non-alcoholic options, a tall glass of iced tea with lemon or a warm cup of herbal tea provides a comforting complement. On colder nights, a steaming mug of mulled cider can add a festive touch to your meal, while a classic ginger ale brings a bubbly brightness that works surprisingly well. For a whimsical touch, pair it with a sparkling apple juice or even a frothy root beer—why not?

Foods to Serve Alongside

While chicken and biscuit pie is a meal in itself, it pairs wonderfully with a few thoughtful sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pie, adding freshness to the plate. For something heartier, roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips bring a natural sweetness that complements the savoury filling. The caramelisation of the vegetables adds a depth that harmonises beautifully with the creamy interior of the pie.

If you’re hosting a gathering, serve the pie alongside a basket of warm rolls or cornbread. A side of buttered peas or steamed green beans with a hint of garlic can provide a fresh, vibrant contrast. And don’t forget dessert—a classic fruit crumble, apple crisp, or a slice of pecan pie is the perfect way to round out the meal. The beauty of chicken and biscuit pie is that it plays well with others, whether they’re fresh, sweet, or equally indulgent.

The Secret to a Perfect Biscuit Top

The biscuit topping is what sets this pie apart from its pot pie cousins, and getting it right is key. The biscuits should be light, fluffy, and golden on top, with just the right amount of crispness to provide texture. Using cold butter in the dough is essential, as it creates those dreamy layers that everyone loves.

If you’re short on time, pre-made biscuit dough is a lifesaver, but there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making biscuits from scratch. Adding a touch of buttermilk or grated cheese to the dough can elevate the topping, giving your pie a personal touch. A sprinkling of cracked black pepper or a brush of melted butter just before baking can add extra visual and flavour appeal. And remember: spacing the biscuits slightly apart ensures they bake evenly, allowing the creamy filling to bubble up around them, creating irresistible pockets of flavour.

Why Chicken and Biscuit Pie Is Always a Good Idea

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about chicken and biscuit pie. It’s a dish that feels like home, whether you’re eating it with your family or serving it to friends. Its balance of creamy filling, tender chicken, and golden biscuits is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s the kind of meal that transports you back to simpler times, evoking memories of family dinners, bustling kitchens, and the comforting aroma of something baking in the oven.

It’s also wonderfully adaptable. Whether you’re clearing out the fridge, feeding a crowd, or just craving comfort, chicken and biscuit pie rises to the occasion. Add extra vegetables, experiment with herbs, or try different proteins—the possibilities are endless. It’s a dish that invites experimentation while staying true to its roots, making it a staple worth returning to again and again. In a world of ever-changing food trends, chicken and biscuit pie remains a timeless classic that’s as relevant today as it was generations ago.

A Recipe for Chicken and Biscuit Pie

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the biscuit topping:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Method:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the chicken stock and milk, allowing the mixture to thicken. Add the shredded chicken, thyme, and season with salt and pepper.

Pour the filling into a greased baking dish. For the biscuits, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs, then stir in the buttermilk until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the filling, leaving a little space between each.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden and cooked through. Let the pie cool slightly before serving, and enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Share it with loved ones, and watch as it quickly disappears—a testament to its irresistible charm.