Honeyed Chicken Handpies

My Winterfell Kitchen Adventure: Honeyed Chicken Handpies

As a busy professional, finding time to cook can be a challenge. But every now and then, I crave a comforting, home-style meal. That's where these Honeyed Chicken Handpies come in. Inspired by the Game of Thrones cookbook, these little pockets of savory goodness are perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a delightful appetizer for a gathering. The recipe itself isn't overly complicated; it's more of a journey, a process of transforming simple ingredients into something truly special. And the best part? These handpies are incredibly versatile. I often adapt the filling to match whatever seasonal ingredients are available. Sometimes I add a touch of caramelized onion for extra depth, or perhaps some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist. The possibilities are truly endless!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its ability to transport you to another world. One bite, and you're whisked away to the icy landscapes of Winterfell, the aroma of warming spices filling the air. I love the contrast of textures—the flaky pastry crust giving way to the tender chicken and sweet honey-kissed filling. It's a culinary adventure that's both rewarding and surprisingly easy to achieve. The feeling of accomplishment, after mastering a new dish, is just as fulfilling as the taste itself. It's a small act of self-care, a chance to disconnect from the demands of work and reconnect with my love for cooking. And let's be honest, the sheer joy of sharing these delicious handpies with friends and family is an experience worth cherishing.

Beyond the practicality and the deliciousness, making these handpies is a process that encourages mindfulness. The careful measuring, the gentle kneading of the dough, the precise folding of the pastry—each step is a meditation in itself. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple pleasures of creating something beautiful and delicious. These handpies are not just a meal; they are a reminder to embrace the journey, to savor the process, and to appreciate the little moments of joy that cooking can bring.

I often find myself adapting the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices. Recently I added a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor. The results were amazing, adding another layer of complexity to the already delectable handpies. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or you venture off on your own culinary adventure, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of creativity and experimentation. The world of cooking is a vast and wondrous place, filled with countless possibilities. So, go ahead, put on your apron, and embark on your own epicurean journey. You might be surprised at what you discover.

The handpies are also incredibly convenient for meal prepping. I often make a double batch on the weekend, then freeze the unbaked pies for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Just pop them in the oven, and in a matter of minutes, you have a warm, comforting dish ready to enjoy. It’s a small act of self-care that helps to alleviate the stress of a busy week. This isn't just about cooking; it's about taking control of my time and my well-being. It’s a quiet rebellion against the chaos of modern life, a small act of self-preservation in a fast-paced world.

Making these handpies is more than just following a recipe; it's about creating a moment of peace and calm in the midst of a busy life. It’s about taking the time to connect with the ingredients, to appreciate the process of transformation, and to savor the final product. This recipe is a gift, a present I give myself, a small act of self-love in a world that often demands so much. It's a reminder that amidst the chaos and the demands of daily life, there is always time for a little bit of joy, a little bit of comfort, and a whole lot of delicious Honeyed Chicken Handpies.

Step-by-step

• Rub the stick of butter into the flour and salt, then add the egg yolk and enough cold water to bring the whole mixture together. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
• Combine all ingredients except the chicken and the roux in a saucepot, and cook for around 10 minutes.
• In a smaller separate pan, make the roux by melting the 2 Tbs. butter, then add the 2 Tbs. flour. Stir to combine, then add a ladle of the broth from the other pot. Do this a couple of times, while stirring, then add the butter/flour mixture back into the main pot.
• Add the chicken and cook for a few more minutes, stirring to make sure the meat absorbs the juices.
• Turn off the heat and allow to cool slightly.
• Preheat the oven to 375F. Take the dough out of the fridge and roll out to 1/4th thick. Cut circles large enough to fit into the muffin pan you intend to use, as well as smaller discs to serve as the tops of the pies.
• Press the larger discs of dough into the muffin cups.
• Spoon the filling into each dough-cup, then wet the top of the dough with water.
• Place the smaller discs on top of the filled pies, and gently fold down the outer dough so it covers the tops.
• Poke a couple of vent holes in the top of each mini pie, brush with glaze, and bake for 20-30 minutes, depending on size, until the tops are nice and golden.