Chicken and Corn Impossible Quiche: Comfort Food Made Easy

This quiche evokes such happy memories for me! My grandmother, bless her heart, was a master of simple, hearty meals. This Chicken and Corn Impossible Quiche was a staple at our family picnics. I remember sitting on checkered blankets, the sun warm on my face, eagerly awaiting a slice of this savory delight. The creamy texture, the sweet corn, and the savory chicken – it was pure comfort on a plate. It’s a dish that reminds me of laughter, sunshine, and the simple joy of good food shared with loved ones.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: 1 pie
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 90g melted butter
• ½ cup plain flour
• 1 cup grated tasty cheese, divided
• 1 cup chopped cooked chicken
• 125g creamed corn
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon snipped chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large jug
• Bowl
• Whisk
• Sifter
• 25cm pie plate (greased)

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to a moderate temperature of 180°C (350°F). While the oven is heating, prepare your ingredients.
2. In a large jug, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter until well combined. This creates the base of your custard.
3. Sift the plain flour into a bowl. This ensures there are no lumps and helps to create a smoother batter.
4. Make a well in the center of the sifted flour. Gradually whisk in the milk mixture, ensuring that you incorporate all the flour until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter. Don’t overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and make the quiche tough.
5. Now, it’s time to add the delicious fillings! Gently mix in half of the grated tasty cheese, reserving the other half for topping.
6. Add the remaining ingredients: the chopped cooked chicken, the creamed corn, the chopped fresh parsley, and the snipped chives. Season generously with salt and pepper to your taste. Be careful not to over-salt, as the cheese already contains some salt.
7. Spoon the mixture into a deep, greased 25cm pie plate. Ensure the pie plate is well-greased to prevent the quiche from sticking.
8. Sprinkle the remaining grated tasty cheese evenly over the top of the quiche. This will create a golden and bubbly crust.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the quiche is firm and golden brown. To test for doneness, gently insert a knife into the center of the quiche. If it comes out clean, the quiche is ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes.
10. Once baked, remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes to allow it to set before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Prevent a Soggy Bottom: To prevent a soggy quiche base, you can blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. Although, with this recipe, since it’s an impossible quiche, you don’t need to add a pie crust.
• Even Baking: If you notice the crust browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture.
• Make-Ahead Magic: You can assemble the quiche a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve. This is a great time saver when preparing for a brunch or gathering.
• Ingredient Swaps: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Gruyere, cheddar, or even a smoked cheese can add a unique twist. Also, cooked ham or bacon can be used instead of chicken.
• The term “impossible pie” refers to a custard pie or quiche that makes its own crust from the flour included in the filling.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Chicken and Corn Impossible Quiche is delicious served warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or a potluck. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Storage: Leftover quiche can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s properly covered or stored in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Reheating: To reheat, you can use the oven, microwave, or even a toaster oven. For the oven, preheat to 175°C (350°F) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. In the microwave, heat in short intervals to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following is an estimate, and actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	420 kcal	21%
Total Fat	25g	38%
Saturated Fat	15g	75%
Cholesterol	200mg	67%
Sodium	450mg	19%
Total Carbohydrate	20g	7%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	5g	–
Protein	25g	50%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free: Although this recipe uses all-purpose flour for the “impossible” crust, you could try subbing a gluten free all-purpose flour, but results may vary.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like asparagus in the spring, butternut squash in the fall, or sun-dried tomatoes in the summer.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What does “impossible” mean in this quiche recipe?
A: “Impossible” refers to the fact that this quiche makes its own crust as it bakes, using the flour within the filling mixture.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and evenly.

Q: Can I freeze this quiche?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked quiche. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: How do I prevent the quiche from cracking on top?
A: Avoid overbaking the quiche, as this can cause it to crack. If your oven tends to run hot, reduce the temperature slightly.

Q: Can I use different types of cooked meat?
A: Absolutely! Ham, bacon, sausage, or even leftover roast beef would work well in this recipe. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this Chicken and Corn Impossible Quiche as much as I do. It’s a versatile and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own signature version. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, feel free to share your feedback and creative twists. Consider pairing it with a simple green salad or a glass of crisp white wine for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy baking!