CHICKEN and mushroom is the UK’s favourite pie, a poll says.
It found those under 30 prefer a poultry-packed pastry to a steak-based option — the pie of choice for older generations, such as Gen X.
Cheese and onion, vegetable, and mac and cheese were also among the nation’s top ten favourite fillings.
Crust first then inside is the most popular way to eat the meal, the poll of 2,000 people for pie-maker Fray Bentos found.
The firm’s brand manager Jude Smart said: “Chicken and steak have been battling it out at the top of the pie chart for decades – and we have a new champion.
“The survey stats show Gen Z has fuelled the switch from steak to chicken as the UK’s favourite filling.
“We’ve marked this milestone with the launch of two new chicken pies.
“Chicken & Mushroom adds a classic recipe to the beloved Fray Bentos pie-in-a-tin range, while the limited-edition Chicken Tikka Match Day pie – complete with a giant football on pack – is perfectly timed for a summer of wall-to-wall football.”
Food trends expert Lisa Harris added: “Younger consumers are increasingly switching away from heavier red meats, which mean chicken has pecked away at steak’s lead.
“Chicken and mushroom is a powerful combination, delivering a rich, familiar flavour pairing that is both classic and comforting.
“It’s no surprise that mushrooms feature in the top slot, as they are an unstoppable functional food trend.
“Popping up in everything from mushroom coffee to chocolate, mushrooms are celebrated for their high-protein, natural umami flavour and meaty texture.
“Gen Z is also more open to ‘mash up’ pies like Mac & Cheese when compared to older generations, as well as being more experimental with combining textures, carbs and cuisines, particularly when it comes to comfort food.”
