Chicken and Chive Hand Pie: A Savory Classic with a Gluten-Free Twist

Chicken and chive hand pie is a savory bake that wraps comfort, flavor, and practicality into one golden, handheld treat. At Recipes of Kitchen – The Gluten-Free Sweet Kitchen, I believe you don’t need gluten to enjoy flaky crusts and rich fillings. That’s why this recipe became a staple in my gluten-free kitchen — it’s everything I missed in a comforting pie, just reimagined with ingredients that love you back.

From school lunches to cozy dinners, this gluten-free hand pie is packed with tender chicken, fresh chives, and a creamy, herby base — all inside a perfectly flaky crust that holds up and tastes divine.

The Comfort Food Charm of Chicken and Chive Hand Pies

Why Hand Pies Are the Ultimate Grab-and-Go Meal

Hand pies are a brilliant solution for anyone who wants hearty food without the mess. Unlike traditional pot pies or casseroles, these little pockets are easy to serve, transport, and store. Whether it’s dinner on the run or a weekend picnic, the chicken and chive hand pie delivers big flavor in a tidy little package.

They’re also incredibly versatile — enjoy them warm or cold, as a main dish or snack. And because they’re portioned individually, they’re perfect for gluten-free families trying to keep meals safe and simple.

Chicken and Chive: A Balanced Flavor Combo

Chicken is the classic comfort protein. It’s mild, juicy, and plays well with herbs. But when you pair it with fresh chives, something magical happens — the mild onion-like bite of chives wakes up the whole filling.

The chives bring brightness and balance, cutting through the richness of the chicken and creamy base. The result is a savory pie that’s both bold and fresh, never heavy or bland.

These hand pies have become one of my favorite gluten-free savory bakes because they strike the right balance between flavor and feel-good food.

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Ingredients Breakdown for Chicken and Chive Hand Pies

What Are Chicken and Chive Hand Pies Made Of?

At their core, chicken and chive hand pies are a blend of rich, tender filling wrapped in flaky pastry. What makes them special — especially in a gluten-free kitchen — is the attention to balance and texture. Here’s what goes into a classic version:

Ingredient	Purpose
Cooked, shredded chicken	The protein-rich base for the filling
Fresh chives	Adds herbaceous, onion-like freshness
Butter or oil	Sauté base for veggies or roux
Onion & garlic	Adds savory depth
Gluten-free flour	Used in both crust and as thickener for filling
Cream or dairy-free alt	Makes the filling smooth and rich
Gluten-free pie crust	Holds everything together in a flaky shell
Egg wash (optional)	Creates a golden, glossy top when baked

This recipe can easily be adapted for dairy-free or egg-free diets, making it a versatile favorite in gluten-sensitive kitchens.

Choosing Gluten-Free Alternatives for Crust and Filling

Not all gluten-free flours are created equal when it comes to making a crust that’s both flaky and stable. Here are my top tips:

• For the crust:
  Use a gluten-free flour blend that includes rice flour, tapioca starch, or potato starch. These starches mimic gluten’s structure without compromising flavor.
• For thickening the filling:
  A small spoonful of gluten-free all-purpose flour, cornstarch, or arrowroot will help bind the cream and chicken into a luscious filling that won’t leak or separate during baking.
• Dairy-free adjustments:
  Replace butter with vegan baking sticks or chilled coconut oil. Use unsweetened plant-based cream (like cashew or oat) for richness.

Whether you’re baking these for family dinners or preparing freezer meals, choosing the right ingredients ensures your chicken and chive hand pies come out flavorful, flaky, and foolproof every time.

The Gluten-Free Pie Crust That Doesn’t Fall Apart

Key Flours and Binders for Gluten-Free Pastry Success

Let’s be honest — crust is the deal-breaker in any pie recipe. And when you go gluten-free, the challenge is real. The goal is to create a crust that’s flaky, flavorful, and sturdy enough to hold the filling without cracking or crumbling.

Here’s a tried-and-true mix that works wonders in gluten-free hand pies:

Flour Component	Function
White rice flour	Light texture and mild taste
Tapioca starch	Elasticity and chew
Sorghum flour or millet	Whole-grain depth and stability
Xanthan gum or psyllium husk	Acts as a binder in place of gluten
Cold butter or vegan sticks	Flakiness and moisture control

This combination creates a dough that’s easy to work with when chilled and produces a golden crust that doesn’t fall apart after baking.

If you’re short on time, pre-made gluten-free pie crusts can also work, but make sure they contain a blend of starches and gums for structure.

Tips for Rolling, Shaping, and Sealing Hand Pies

Handling gluten-free dough takes a little patience, but it’s absolutely doable with the right techniques:

• Chill your dough
  Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to handle and less likely to tear.
• Use parchment paper
  Roll between two sheets of parchment to prevent sticking without adding more flour.
• Don’t overfill
  A tablespoon or two of filling is enough per hand pie. Overfilling causes leakage and uneven baking.
• Seal and crimp well
  Use a fork to press the edges or crimp with your fingers. Brush the edges with water or egg wash to help them stick.
• Vent the tops
  Make a small slit or poke with a fork so steam can escape and your pies bake evenly.

With the right technique, your chicken and chive hand pies will have a beautiful golden crust that’s firm enough to hold and tender enough to bite into.

Flavor Building: Why Chives Make It Better

What Do Chives Add to Savory Pastries?

When you think of herbs in baking, chives might not be the first that come to mind—but they should be. These slender green stalks are mild, fresh, and oniony, adding subtle sharpness without overpowering the dish. In a creamy chicken filling, they brighten every bite.

Unlike onions, which can dominate, chives blend smoothly into the filling, delivering flavor and freshness without harsh edges. Their softness also means they fold effortlessly into batters and fillings—no extra prep, no long cooking time.

Here’s why chives are the perfect herb for hand pies:

• Enhance richness without overpowering
• Add a light onion note to balance creamy chicken
• Boost visual appeal with a pop of green
• Naturally gluten-free and easy to digest

In short, chives are the flavor bridge between the buttery crust and the hearty filling.

Fresh vs Dried Chives: What to Use and When

While fresh chives are always preferred for this recipe, you can use dried chives in a pinch — but with a few adjustments.

Form	Flavor	Best Use
Fresh chives	Bright, grassy, tender	Mix into filling before baking
Dried chives	Milder, slightly earthy	Rehydrate with a bit of cream or broth

Pro Tip: If using dried chives, soak them in warm cream or broth for 10 minutes before adding to the filling. This brings back their mild flavor and soft texture.

The gentle herbaceous lift that chives provide makes your chicken and chive hand pies taste balanced and fresh, even when baked ahead or frozen for later.

How to Make Chicken and Chive Hand Pies Step-by-Step

Tools You Need and Prep Timeline

Making chicken and chive hand pies at home is surprisingly simple when you’re organized. Before you begin, gather everything you’ll need so you can work smoothly from prep to baking.

Tools checklist:

• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or knife
• Fork (for crimping)
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush

Prep timeline:

Step	Time
Make or thaw dough	30 min–1 hr
Prep filling	20 min
Assemble pies	15–20 min
Chill (optional)	15 min
Bake	25–30 min
Cool before serving	10 min

From start to finish, you can have a batch of gluten-free chicken and chive hand pies ready in under 90 minutes.

Filling, Assembling, Baking, and Storing the Pies

Here’s the full walkthrough for how to bring your savory gluten-free hand pies to life:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat:

1. Sauté 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
2. Add ½ finely diced onion and 1 clove minced garlic
3. Cook until translucent
4. Stir in 1 tbsp gluten-free flour to create a roux
5. Slowly whisk in ⅓ cup cream (or dairy-free option)
6. Add 1½ cups shredded cooked chicken
7. Fold in 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste
9. Let cool before filling your dough

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough

• Roll out your gluten-free pastry dough between two sheets of parchment
• Cut into 4- to 6-inch circles or rectangles
• Re-roll scraps as needed to maximize yield

Step 3: Fill and Seal

• Place a spoonful of cooled chicken-chive filling in the center of each dough piece
• Leave a ½-inch border
• Lightly brush edges with water or egg wash
• Fold over and press edges to seal
• Use a fork to crimp and prevent leaks

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
• Place hand pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet
• Brush tops with egg wash or plant milk for color
• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp
• Cool for 10 minutes before serving

Chicken and chive hand pies will have a golden, crisp crust with a creamy, herby interior that holds together perfectly — hot or cold.

Step 5: Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best texture
• Do not microwave unless wrapped in paper towel to avoid sogginess

Pro Tip: Want to prep in bulk? Chicken and chive hand pies freeze beautifully. Just place unbaked pies on a tray, freeze until firm, and transfer to a sealed bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.

Creative Variations You Can Try at Home

Add-Ins: Cheese, Veggies, or Spice

One of the best things about chicken and chive hand pies is how easily they adapt to your taste. Once you master the base recipe, you can mix in new ingredients for endless flavor twists.

Here are some delicious additions to try:

Add-In	Why It Works
Shredded cheddar	Adds sharpness and gooey richness
Cooked spinach	Brings color and nutrients
Mushrooms	Earthy, meaty depth to complement the chicken
Jalapeños or chili flakes	Add a gentle heat for spice lovers
Mustard or lemon zest	Cuts through creaminess with tangy brightness

Whether you’re customizing for adults or picky kids, these little swaps turn your gluten-free hand pies into something new every time.

Chicken and Chive Hand Pie for Kids’ Lunchboxes or Parties

Looking to impress a lunchbox crowd or prep for a gluten-free birthday party? Scale down the size for mini chicken and chive hand pies — perfect for kids’ hands and appetites.

Tips for smaller hand pies:

• Cut dough into 3-inch rounds
• Use 1–2 tsp of filling per pie
• Reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes

Pair with a side of carrot sticks or gluten-free crackers, and you’ve got a balanced, portable meal that tastes like comfort and looks like fun.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

Can You Freeze Chicken Hand Pies?

Absolutely — these chicken and chive hand pies are made for freezing. Whether you want to bake now and freeze later, or prep raw pies to finish on demand, both methods work.

Two ways to freeze:

1. Unbaked
   • Assemble hand pies
   • Freeze on a tray until firm
   • Transfer to a freezer-safe bag
   • Bake from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 min (no thawing needed)
2. Baked
   • Let baked pies cool completely
   • Wrap individually in foil or parchment
   • Reheat in oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 10–15 min

This makes them perfect for meal prep, emergency lunches, or weeknight dinners when time is tight.

How to Store and Reheat Without Losing Texture

Refrigerated pies should be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the crust crispy, avoid microwaving directly — use a toaster oven or air fryer for reheating.

Quick tips:

• Reheat uncovered to avoid sogginess
• For extra crunch, brush tops with oil before reheating
• Serve with a fresh dip like mustard, aioli, or herbed yogurt

Whether freshly baked or reheated from frozen, chicken and chive hand pies maintain their flaky crust and creamy filling — making them one of the best gluten-free freezer meals around.

What to Serve with Chicken and Chive Hand Pies

Dips and Sauces: What Goes Best?

While chicken and chive hand pies are flavorful on their own, the right dip or sauce can elevate them into a full experience. Here are some gluten-free favorites that pair perfectly with the creamy, herby filling:

Sauce	Flavor Profile
Honey mustard	Sweet and tangy
Garlic aioli	Creamy with a bold punch
Herbed Greek yogurt dip	Light, fresh, and cool
Spicy chipotle mayo	Smoky heat with a creamy base
Dijon vinaigrette	Bright and acidic contrast

For dipping, choose something that complements without overpowering. The goal is to highlight the chicken and chive hand pie’s savory depth while adding just the right zing.

Pairing with Salads, Soups, or Slaws for a Full Meal

To turn your hand pie into a hearty, well-rounded meal, serve it with:

• Arugula and citrus salad – peppery and fresh
• Roasted carrot ginger soup – warm and lightly sweet
• Apple cabbage slaw – crisp and bright
• Tomato basil soup – classic pairing with pastry
• Simple cucumber dill salad – cool and refreshing

These pairings keep your plate balanced — lightening up the richness of the pie while staying gluten-free.

Where to Buy Gluten-Free Hand Pie Ingredients

Recommended Brands and Shopping Tips

When making chicken and chive hand pies at home, high-quality ingredients matter — especially when shopping gluten-free. Here are some top go-to brands and tips for finding the right products:

Ingredient	Recommended Brand	Why We Love It
Gluten-free flour mix	King Arthur Measure-for-Measure	Great texture and consistent results
Pie crust (ready-made)	Wholly Gluten Free Pie Shells	Flaky and freezer-friendly
Cream or dairy-free alt	Califia Farms Oat Creamer	Smooth texture, great for savory use
Fresh chives	Organic/local produce	Best flavor and color
Chicken (pre-cooked)	Applegate Organic Chicken	Clean ingredients, fully cooked

Pro Tip: Always double-check packaging for certified gluten-free labels, especially on processed items like flour, broth, or crusts.

Chicken, Flour Blends, and Chive Options That Work Best

When sourcing ingredients:

• Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken (if gluten-free) or roast your own breast/thigh meat for more control.
• Chives: Fresh is best, but frozen or freeze-dried can work in a pinch.
• Flour: A blend with xanthan gum built in will give you structure and flexibility in your dough.

Whether you’re shopping online or at a local health food store, investing in trusted gluten-free ingredients will make your hand pies taste amazing and bake beautifully every time.

FAQ Section About Chicken and Chive Hand Pie

Conclusion

Chicken and chive hand pies are a versatile and satisfying snack that combines savory flavors with a convenient, portable form. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a quick lunch, or a freezer-friendly meal prep option, these hand pies deliver comfort and taste in every bite. By experimenting with different pastries, fillings, and sauces, you can easily customize them to suit your preferences and dietary needs.