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There’s something truly irresistible about freshly baked, golden-brown hand pies—especially when they’re filled with juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and a perfect blend of seasonings. These Savory Chicken and Potato Hand Pies are flaky on the outside, hearty on the inside, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them as a warm lunch, a dinner main, or even a snack for a picnic, they’re a crowd-pleaser through and through. The homemade dough is soft yet sturdy, enriched with butter and kefir for a slight tang and tender bite. Inside, the combination of chicken breast, potatoes, and onion is seasoned just right, then wrapped in the dough and baked to perfection. The sprinkle of sesame seeds on top adds a nutty crunch that makes every bite even more delightful. This is comfort food with a touch of elegance—simple to prepare but special enough to impress.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

7 oz (200 g) wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Salt, to taste
1 egg (for dough)
2.8 oz (80 g) butter
1 tablespoon sugar
½ cup (120 ml) kefir
Olive oil, for sautéing
8.5 oz (240 g) chicken breast, diced
2 fresh potatoes, diced
1 fresh onion, chopped
Salt, to taste (for filling)
Sweet paprika powder, to taste
Garlic powder, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste
1 egg (for egg wash)
Sesame seeds, for topping

Cooking Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
Add the butter, cut into small cubes, and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Beat one egg in a separate bowl and mix it with the sugar and kefir. Pour this wet mixture into the flour and butter mixture.
Stir until a soft dough forms, then knead gently until smooth. Cover and let rest while you prepare the filling.
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook until lightly browned.
Add the diced potatoes and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
Season the filling with salt, sweet paprika, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C).
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ⅛ inch thick. Cut into circles or squares, depending on your preferred pie shape.
Place a spoonful of the cooled chicken and potato filling in the center of each dough piece. Fold over the dough to enclose the filling and press the edges to seal, using a fork for a decorative touch.
Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the tops of the pies.
Sprinkle sesame seeds over each pie for a delicious crunch and extra flavor.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve warm, and enjoy the crisp exterior with the savory, tender filling inside.

Nutrients

Protein from chicken and egg
Healthy fats from olive oil and sesame seeds
Carbohydrates from potatoes and flour for energy
Vitamins C and B6 from potatoes and onion
Antioxidants from paprika and garlic
Calcium from kefir

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe hits all the right notes—crispy, buttery pastry, a hearty and flavorful filling, and the kind of aroma that makes the whole kitchen smell irresistible. The chicken is juicy, the potatoes are tender, and the seasoning blend is balanced yet bold. Best of all, these pies are portable, making them perfect for on-the-go meals, lunchboxes, or casual gatherings.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish
Savory hand pies have been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries, from British Cornish pasties to Russian pirozhki. This recipe draws inspiration from those traditions but keeps things approachable with a simple, homemade dough and a classic chicken-and-potato filling. The addition of kefir in the dough is a nod to Eastern European baking, where fermented dairy products are often used to create tender, flavorful crusts.

Ingredient Spotlight

Wheat Flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.
Kefir: Adds tang and tenderness, making the pastry softer and more flavorful.
Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-rich, keeping the filling light but satisfying.
Potatoes: Add heartiness and balance to the protein, making the filling substantial.
Paprika: Brings a mild sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Sesame Seeds: Provide nutty flavor and visual appeal to the finished pies.

Storage and Reheating Tips
These hand pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to regain their crispness. They also freeze well—wrap each pie individually in foil or plastic wrap, store in a freezer-safe bag, and bake straight from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.

Common Variations to Try
Swap the chicken for turkey, beef, or even minced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. You can also experiment with different seasonings—curry powder for a spiced version, Italian herbs for a Mediterranean feel, or chili flakes for extra heat. Cheese lovers can add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the filling for a melty surprise.

Pairing Recommendations
Serve these hand pies with a fresh green salad, pickled vegetables, or a light tomato soup for a complete meal. They also go beautifully with dipping sauces like garlic yogurt, sour cream, or spicy ketchup. For drinks, try them with iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine.

Health Benefits
This dish provides a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a satisfying meal. Kefir in the dough offers probiotics for gut health, while the sesame seeds contribute minerals like calcium and magnesium. Potatoes and onions provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, supporting overall wellness.

Conclusion
Savory Chicken and Potato Hand Pies are the kind of recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly memorable. The homemade dough, enriched with butter and kefir, bakes up golden and flaky, while the chicken and potato filling delivers comforting, satisfying flavor in every bite. Perfect for dinner, snacks, or meal prep, these pies are versatile, delicious, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Once you make them, you’ll understand why hand pies have been beloved across cultures for generations—they’re practical, portable, and packed with flavor.