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Pancake Recipe: Creamy Chicken, Onion & Pancetta

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Celebrate Shrove Tuesday with a Delicious Savoury Pancake Recipe

Shrove Tuesday, often known as Pancake Day, is one of the most anticipated food celebrations in the UK.

Falling the day before Ash Wednesday, it marks the last opportunity to indulge before the 40-day period of Lent, traditionally observed with fasting and reflection.

While sweet pancakes with lemon and sugar are the classic choice, savoury options are a fabulous alternative and a good, healthy home cooked option.

The History of Shrove Tuesday

Shrove Tuesday has been celebrated for centuries and originates from the Christian tradition of using up rich ingredients such as eggs, butter, and milk before the fasting period of Lent. The term “shrove” comes from the Old English word “shriven,” which means to be absolved of sins. Over time, this day became synonymous with feasting, and the tradition of making pancakes became a simple yet delicious way to use up pantry staples.

In the UK, Shrove Tuesday is also known for its quirky traditions, including pancake races, where participants run while flipping pancakes in frying pans. Towns like Olney in Buckinghamshire have upheld this tradition for centuries, making it a beloved part of British culture.

A Savoury Twist on Pancake Day

Pancake

While many of us enjoy sweet pancakes topped with sugar, syrup, or fruit, savoury pancakes can be just as indulgent.

This creamy chicken, onion & crispy pancetta brings a rich, gourmet twist to a classic dish.

Perfect for dinner or a brunch, this recipe is a must-try for those looking to experiment beyond the traditional lemon and sugar combination.

You’ll find the recipe below or head over to our Instagram or Facebook Page to see our social video of how to cook the King of pancakes.

Videography by Blanc Creative, Norwich

British Pancakes with Creamy Chicken, Onion & Pancetta from Archer’s Butchery

A comforting, creamy and savoury classic with the best Norfolk chicken, crispy pancetta, and onions.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the pancakes:

  • 100g plain flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 300ml milk
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for frying)
For the filling:

Method

Make the batter

We’ve used a traditional recipe, by Norwich’s very own Delia Smith. These pancakes are thin, light and taste amazing

Whisk the flour, and eggs into a thick batter, then eggs, milk, and salt in a bowl until smooth. Let it rest for 15 minutes. It couldn’t be much simpler.

Cook the pancakes:

Heat a non-stick pan with a little butter and pour in a ladle of batter, swirling to coat the base. Cook for about 1 minute per side until golden. Repeat until all batter is used and keep warm.

Cook the pancetta:

 In a dry pan, fry the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.

pancake, pancetta

Sauté the onions:

Add butter to the pan, then fry the onions until soft and golden.

Cook the chicken:

Add the diced chicken to the pan, stir in the red pesto, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked.

Make the creamy sauce:

Sprinkle in the flour, stir well, then gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Add flavour:

Stir in the mustard, Parmesan, and cooked pancetta, then season with chilli flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

Assemble the pancakes:

Fill each pancake with the creamy chicken mixture, fold or roll, and serve immediately.

Why This Recipe Works for Shrove Tuesday

This savoury pancake recipe is a delicious twist on tradition, bringing together crispy pancetta, creamy sauce, and tender chicken wrapped in a light pancake. The onions add a gentle sweetness, balancing out the savoury depth of the pancetta and Parmesan.

Whether you’re celebrating Pancake Day with friends and family or simply want a new savoury dish to add to your recipe book, this Creamy Chicken, Onion & Pancetta Pancake is a must-try. Enjoy!

Looking for another delicious savoury pancake? Try our British Pancakes with Beef, Caramelised Onions & Blue Cheese