Healthy Chicken and Bacon Cottage Pie Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Place the quartered potatoes into a large saucepan and cover with cold water.

2. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over high heat.

3. Reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are completely fork-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Savory Filling

1. While the potatoes cook, preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan / Gas Mark 7).

2. Generously spray a large, non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over medium heat.

3. Add the sliced leek and chopped onion, sautéing for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.

4. Stir in the diced chicken and bacon strips. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken is browned on the outside.

5. Sprinkle in the mustard powder, then pour in 300ml of the chicken stock (set the remaining 25ml aside for the mash). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.

6. Stir in 75g of the low-fat cream cheese and the fresh thyme leaves. Once the sauce is smooth and well combined, transfer the filling into a medium-sized ovenproof baking dish.

Step 3: Mash the Topping

1. Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and let them steam-dry in the colander for 2 minutes (this ensures a fluffier mash).

2. Return the potatoes to the pot and mash until completely smooth.

3. Stir in the remaining 25g of cream cheese, the reserved 25ml of chicken stock, and the chopped parsley. Season well with sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Carefully spoon the seasoned mashed potato over the chicken and bacon filling. Use the back of a fork to smooth it out and create ridges that will crisp up in the oven.

2. Evenly sprinkle the grated reduced-fat Cheddar cheese over the top.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden-brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges.

4. Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm.

Top Tips for the Perfect Healthy Cottage Pie

• Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your choice of chicken stock cubes and mustard powder are certified gluten-free.

• Boost Your Veggies: Feel free to stir in sliced mushrooms, sweetcorn, or peas to the chicken mixture to add more speed foods and nutrients to your plate.

• Meal Prep friendly: This dish can be assembled ahead of time, kept in the fridge overnight, and baked just before dinner. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.