Irresistible Mini Butter Chicken Pies: A Flavorful Puff Pastry Delight

Embark on a culinary adventure with these Mini Butter Chicken Pies, a brilliant fusion that marries the beloved, rich, and creamy flavors of classic Indian butter chicken with the irresistible crispiness of golden puff pastry. This recipe transforms an iconic curry into a delightful, individual-sized hand pie, perfect for any occasion. Forget complicated cooking; we’re making gourmet accessible by utilizing readily available shop-bought puff pastry and baking these savory delights in a standard muffin tin for uniform, snack-sized perfection. These small yet mighty pies are bursting with flavor, offering a convenient and utterly delicious twist on a timeless favorite that is sure to impress everyone.

Puff pastry is a true kitchen hero, celebrated for its ease of use and incredible versatility in both sweet and savory applications. If you’re looking to explore more creative ways to utilize this fantastic ingredient in your own home kitchen, be sure to check out some of our other popular recipes. Discover the savory satisfaction of these mini sausage rolls with chorizo, indulge in the comforting warmth of creamy chicken and leek pies, savor the simple goodness of cheese and onion pasties, or try our reader-favorite easy chicken sausage rolls recipe. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the flaky, buttery goodness of puff pastry.

Why You’ll Adore These Mini Butter Chicken Pies

These mini butter chicken pies aren’t just a snack; they’re a delightful culinary experience packed into a portable, perfectly portioned package. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The filling is truly the star here – a rich, creamy, and tender butter chicken packed with an authentic blend of aromatic spices. Each bite delivers that signature sweet and savory warmth you expect from a classic butter chicken, beautifully complemented by the flaky pastry.
• Versatile for Every Occasion: Whether you’re hosting an elegant party, needing a quick and satisfying snack on the go, seeking an impressive impromptu appetizer, or simply want to elevate your curry night with a creative twist, these hand pies fit the bill perfectly. They’re ideal for any moment you crave a flavorful, comforting bite.
• Enjoy Them Hot or Cold: These pies are incredibly adaptable. Savor them warm, fresh from the oven, when the pastry is at its crispiest and the filling is wonderfully fragrant. They’re equally delicious chilled, making them fantastic for picnics, packed lunches, or a convenient grab-and-go option.
• Effortless Preparation: Don’t let their gourmet appearance fool you; these mini pies come together with surprising ease. Our detailed, step-by-step instructions ensure a smooth cooking process, requiring no advanced baking skills. It’s a rewarding recipe for cooks of all levels.
• No Blind Baking Required: We’ve simplified the process even further by eliminating the need for blind baking. This saves you time and effort, allowing you to get these delicious pies into the oven faster without compromising on taste or texture. The puff pastry bakes beautifully around the filling, creating a perfect crust every time.

If you share our passion for delicious pies made with the convenience and deliciousness of puff pastry, you absolutely must try this hearty and comforting creamy leek and bacon chicken pie!

Key Ingredients & Smart Substitutions

Crafting the perfect mini butter chicken pie starts with understanding your ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the key components and helpful tips for substitutions:

**For a comprehensive list of all ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the very end of this post.

Greek Yogurt

We highly recommend using Greek yogurt for its luxuriously thick and creamy texture, which contributes to a rich marinade that clings beautifully to the chicken. This results in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken in your filling. However, if Greek yogurt isn’t on hand, any good quality plain yogurt can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the savory balance of the dish.

Mild Curry Powder

The mild curry powder ensures a gentle warmth and aromatic depth, suitable for most palates. If you prefer a subtle hint of spice, sticking with a mild blend is perfect. For those who enjoy a bolder, more fiery flavor, feel free to use a hotter curry powder. Alternatively, you can easily increase the spice level by adding an extra teaspoon of mild curry powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste.

Chicken

Both boneless, skinless chicken breasts and chicken thighs perform exceptionally well in this recipe. Chicken breasts offer a leaner option, while chicken thighs provide a slightly richer flavor and tend to stay very moist during cooking. Whichever you choose, ensure the chicken is cut into small, even cubes for consistent cooking and easy portioning within the mini pies.

Tomatoes

For ultimate convenience and consistent flavor, canned chopped tomatoes are our go-to for this recipe. They offer a robust tomato base without the fuss of dicing fresh tomatoes. Should you prefer to use fresh produce, ripe, flavorful tomatoes diced finely will work beautifully, adding a brighter, garden-fresh note to your butter chicken filling.

Sugar

A small amount of sugar is incorporated into the filling, not to sweeten the curry, but to expertly balance the natural acidity of the tomatoes. This subtle addition rounds out the flavors and prevents the sauce from tasting too sharp. If you adhere to a sugar-free diet, you can omit it entirely without significantly impacting the overall deliciousness, though a touch of balance will be missed.

Double Cream

Known as heavy cream in North America, double cream is crucial for achieving the characteristic richness and velvety texture of butter chicken. Its high fat content ensures a luxurious mouthfeel. If double cream is unavailable, single cream or whipping cream can be used as alternatives, though the sauce might be slightly less thick and rich. Avoid low-fat creams as they tend to curdle when heated.

Puff Pastry

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, and shop-bought puff pastry is your best friend here. Whether fresh or frozen, it works wonderfully. Look for puff pastry sold in sheet form, typically rolled up in paper and packaged in an elongated box. In the UK, a standard packet is around 320g, which is approximately the quantity needed. A few grams more or less won’t make a significant difference. Ensure your pastry is thawed if frozen, and kept chilled until ready to use for the best results. Some widely available brands include:

• Jus-Rol (United Kingdom)
• Pampas (Australia)
• Today (South Africa)
• Pepperidge Farm (USA)

Poppy or Sesame Seeds

These seeds are an optional but highly recommended addition. Sprinkling them on top of your pies before baking adds a lovely visual appeal, giving them a professional, finished look. Beyond aesthetics, they also contribute a subtle nutty flavor and a pleasing textural crunch that contrasts beautifully with the flaky pastry and creamy filling.

Essential Equipment for Success

Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious mini butter chicken pies:

• 1 x Medium-Sized Mixing Bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the spices for your butter chicken filling.
• 1 x Heavy-Based Large Saucepan or Skillet: A robust pan ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for frying the onions and simmering the chicken filling without burning.
• 1 x Standard 12-Hole Muffin Tin (or 2 x 6-Hole Muffin Tins): This is key for achieving the perfect individual portion size and classic round shape of your mini pies.
• 1 x 8cm (approx. 3.15 inches) Round Cookie Cutter: Used for cutting the smaller pastry circles that will form the tops of your pies. If you don’t have one, a glass or small bowl with a similar diameter will work just as well.
• 1 x 9cm (approx. 3.5 inches) Round Cookie Cutter: For cutting the larger pastry circles that will form the base of your pies. Again, a slightly larger glass or bowl can serve as a substitute.
• 1 x Pastry Brush: Ideal for applying the egg wash evenly over the tops of your pies, ensuring a beautiful golden-brown and shiny finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Mini Butter Chicken Pies

Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly flaky and flavorful mini butter chicken pies. Precision in each stage ensures the best possible results.

Part 1: Crafting the Creamy Butter Chicken Filling

The heart of these pies is the rich and aromatic butter chicken filling. Take your time with the marinade for maximum flavor.

1. Marinate the Chicken: In your medium-sized bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, mild curry powder, ground coriander, and ground turmeric. Stir everything together until well combined. Add the diced chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for a minimum of two hours. For optimal flavor infusion and tenderness, marinating overnight is highly recommended.
2. Sauté the Onions: Heat the oil in a heavy-based saucepan or large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and turn a light golden-brown color. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
3. Brown the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces, along with any remaining marinade from the bowl, to the saucepan with the onions. Continue to fry for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken pieces are lightly seared on the outside and beginning to cook through.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, salt (start with 0.5 teaspoon and adjust later), and sugar. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to a low simmer.
5. Cook Until Tender: Allow the mixture to gently simmer for approximately 10 minutes, or until the chicken pieces are cooked through, tender, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Enrich with Cream and Butter: Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the double cream and butter. Continue to heat gently, stirring until the butter has fully melted and the cream is thoroughly incorporated, creating a smooth, rich sauce. Do not boil after adding the cream.
7. Chill the Filling: Transfer the finished butter chicken filling to a clean container and place it in the fridge. Allow it to cool completely and begin to firm up slightly, which usually takes about 30 minutes. A chilled, slightly firm filling is much easier to work with when assembling the pies.

Part 2: Preparing and Cutting the Puff Pastry

The flaky crust is just as important as the filling. Proper handling of the puff pastry ensures a golden, crispy shell.

8. Roll Out Pastry: Carefully unroll both sheets of puff pastry. Roll each sheet out into roughly a 45x38cm (18×15 inches) rectangle.
9. Top Tip for Easy Cleanup: There’s no need to flour your work surface. Simply roll the puff pastry directly on the paper it was wrapped in. This not only prevents sticking but also saves you from cleaning up flour later!
10. Cut Pastry Circles: Using the 9cm round cookie cutter, cut out 6 circles from the first pastry sheet. Then, using the 8cm round cookie cutter, cut out another 6 circles from the same sheet. Repeat this process for the second sheet of pastry. By the end, you should have 12 large circles (for the bases) and 12 slightly smaller circles (for the tops). If you don’t have cookie cutters, use clean glasses or bowls of similar diameters as guides.
11. Prepare Muffin Tin: Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin baking tin with a neutral cooking oil or a non-stick cooking spray. You can also simply dip a piece of kitchen paper in oil and wipe out each muffin cup hole thoroughly. This prevents the pies from sticking and ensures easy removal.

Part 3: Assembling and Baking the Mini Pies

Bringing all the components together for baking. Careful assembly leads to beautiful, well-sealed pies.

11. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C (374°F / Gas Mark 5). Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the pies inside.
12. Form Pastry Bases: Gently press each of the larger puff pastry circles into the indentations of the prepared muffin tin. Allow the edges of the pastry to extend slightly over the top rim of each muffin cup. This overhang is crucial for securely sealing the tops later.



13. Fill the Pies: Scoop approximately one generous tablespoon of the chilled butter chicken filling into each pastry-lined muffin cup. Be careful not to overfill; the filling should not rise higher than the rim of the muffin cup to allow for the top pastry layer and proper sealing.



14. Add Pastry Tops and Seal: Place one of the smaller puff pastry circles on top of each filled muffin cup. Gently press and pinch together the edges of the bottom and top pastry circles. Work your way around each pie, securely sealing any gaps. You can use the tines of a fork to create a decorative, tight seal around the edges.
15. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk the egg until well blended. Using your pastry brush, lightly brush the tops of each mini pie with the egg wash. This will give them a beautiful golden sheen and crispy texture when baked.
16. Create Steam Vents: Using the tip of a sharp knife, carefully poke 2-3 small slits or holes into the top of each mini pie. These vents are important as they allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the pastry from becoming soggy and ensuring a light, airy crust.



17. Optional Seed Topping: If desired, sprinkle the tops of the pies with sesame or poppy seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
18. Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled pies in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is beautifully puffed up, golden brown, and delightfully crisp.
19. Cool Before Serving: Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the pies to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. This cooling period helps the pastry set and makes them much easier to remove without breaking. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly further before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mini Butter Chicken Pies

Achieving bakery-quality mini pies is easier than you think with a few smart techniques. Here are our top tips to ensure your butter chicken pies turn out perfectly every time:

Allow the Filling to Thoroughly Chill

This is arguably the most crucial tip for easy assembly and superior results. Letting your butter chicken filling cool down completely and solidify slightly in the fridge before you even begin assembling the pies makes an enormous difference. A cold, firm filling is significantly easier to spoon into the pastry cases, prevents messes, and maintains its shape better. More importantly, cold filling helps prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy on the bottom during baking, leading to a much crispier, flakier crust. Aim for at least 30 minutes of chilling, or even longer if time permits.

Accurately Measure Your Muffin Tin

The cookie cutter sizes (9cm for the base, 8cm for the top) provided in this recipe are based on a standard 12-cup muffin tin. However, muffin tins can vary slightly in size and depth. It’s always a good idea to double-check the dimensions of your specific tin. To ensure a perfect fit for your pastry circles:

• Place a standard paper cupcake liner into one of your muffin holes.
• Observe if the paper liner extends slightly over the top rim. If it does, your tin is likely a good fit for the recommended cutter sizes.
• If the paper liner sits flush with the rim or below, you may need to adjust your cutter sizes. Open up the paper liner and measure its diameter across the base and up the sides. This measurement will guide you in choosing the ideal diameter for your larger (base) cookie cutter.
• The goal is to have the base pastry circle extend just a little over the muffin tin’s rim to provide enough overlap for a secure seal with the top pastry piece. Adjust your cutter size slightly larger if your liner doesn’t provide enough overhang.

Working with Puff Pastry

Puff pastry is best worked with when it’s cold but pliable. If it gets too warm, it can become sticky and difficult to handle. If this happens, simply pop it back into the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up before continuing. Handle the pastry as little as possible to maintain its flaky layers.

Don’t Overfill

While it’s tempting to cram as much delicious butter chicken as possible into each pie, resist the urge to overfill. Overfilling can lead to leakage during baking, making your pies messy and potentially causing the pastry to become soggy. Stick to approximately one generous tablespoon per pie to ensure even baking and a neat finish.

Secure Sealing is Key

A well-sealed pie prevents the filling from escaping and helps maintain the structure of the pie. Take your time to gently press and pinch the edges of the top and bottom pastry circles together. Using the tines of a fork not only creates a pretty pattern but also ensures a tighter, more secure seal.

The Magic of Egg Wash

Don’t skip the egg wash! A simple whisked egg brushed over the tops of your pies before baking is what gives them that beautiful golden-brown color and a lovely, slightly crisp finish. It also helps any seeds you sprinkle on top adhere better.

Serving Suggestions & Delightful Pairings

These versatile mini butter chicken pies can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways, making them perfect for various meals and occasions. Here are some ideas to make them shine:

• As an Elegant Appetizer: Serve these pies on their own as a sophisticated finger food for parties, gatherings, or as a delightful addition to an appetizer platter. They also make a fantastic feature on a charcuterie board, offering a warm and savory contrast to cheeses and cured meats.
• A Hearty Main Meal: Transform them into a satisfying lunch or dinner by pairing them with complementary sides. They are delicious alongside a classic potato salad, a fresh and vibrant green salad, warm and fluffy naan bread for dipping into any extra sauce, or crispy chips (fries) for a comforting twist.
• Perfect for On-the-Go: Their individual size makes them ideal for packed lunches, whether for work, school, or a weekend outing. They hold up well and are just as delicious at room temperature, making them a fantastic picnic item.
• Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves just before serving adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that beautifully complements the rich curry flavors.
• Dipping Sauce: While flavorful on their own, a side of mango chutney, a cooling raita (yogurt dip), or even a simple sweet chili sauce can elevate the experience further.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips for Convenience

These mini butter chicken pies are fantastic for meal prep and entertaining, thanks to their excellent storage capabilities. Plan ahead with these tips:

Refrigerating Leftovers

Any leftover baked pies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F / Gas Mark 5) for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and the pastry has crisped up again. Avoid reheating in a microwave, as it can make the pastry soggy.

Make-Ahead (Unbaked Pies)

For ultimate convenience, you can assemble the pies completely, up to the point of brushing with egg wash and sprinkling seeds, and then store them unbaked in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container or cover the muffin tin tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep well for up to 2 days before baking. When ready, bake them directly from the fridge at 190°C (374°F / Gas Mark 5) for the usual 20 minutes.

Freezing Unbaked Pies

To prepare a batch for future enjoyment, assemble the pies as described for make-ahead, but do not bake. Place the unbaked pies in a freezer-safe airtight container, ensuring they are well-separated to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To defrost, remove them from the freezer the day before you plan to bake and let them thaw in the fridge. Once defrosted, bake for 20 minutes at 190°C (374°F / Gas Mark 5).

Baking from Frozen

You can also bake the pies directly from frozen! Simply add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time (so, 25-30 minutes total) when baking at 190°C (374°F / Gas Mark 5). Keep an eye on them to ensure the pastry is golden brown and the filling is hot throughout.

Freezing Baked Pies

Baked and cooled pies can also be frozen. Wrap individual pies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 190°C (374°F / Gas Mark 5) for 20-25 minutes, or until piping hot.

More Delicious Puff Pastry Creations You’ll Love

If you’ve enjoyed the versatility and delightful texture of puff pastry in these butter chicken pies, you’ll be thrilled to explore more recipes that feature this incredible ingredient. Here are some other savory puff pastry pies and rolls perfect for snacks, appetizers, or light meals:

• Cheese and Onion Pasties: A classic British comfort food, these pasties combine savory cheese and sweet caramelized onions encased in a golden, flaky pastry. Perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty snack.
• Mini Homemade Sausage Rolls with Chorizo: Elevate your snack game with these flavorful sausage rolls. The spicy kick of chorizo adds an exciting twist to traditional pork sausage, all wrapped in buttery puff pastry. Great for parties!
• Creamy Chicken and Leek Pies: A comforting and elegant dish featuring tender chicken and leeks in a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with a beautiful puff pastry lid. Ideal for a cozy family dinner.
• Easy Chicken Sausage Rolls: A lighter alternative to traditional pork, these chicken sausage rolls are simple to make and equally delicious. A go-to recipe for quick bites and lunchboxes.
• Sausage Plait with Caramelised Onions, Apple and Crispy Bacon: This impressive sausage plait is packed with layers of flavor – savory sausage, sweet caramelized onions, crisp apple, and smoky bacon, all encased in a braided puff pastry crust. Perfect for a buffet or a special meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Butter Chicken Pies

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making and enjoying these delicious mini butter chicken pies.