Chicken Puff Pastry Cups

These delightful Chicken Puff Pastry Cups are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or a delightful snack. Packed with flavorful shredded chicken, aromatic vegetables, and wrapped in flaky puff pastry, these cups are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a cozy family dinner option.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • Puff pastry sheets (two 12×10 inch sheets)
  • 1 large chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • Flour for dusting
  • Optional garnish: chive sticks, cilantro, or green onion

Directions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the flour and stir for a minute. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Add the shredded chicken and vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Prepare the Pastry: Dust your working surface with flour, and gently unroll the puff pastry. Cut out 8 rounds using a 4-inch straight-edge cutter for the base, and 8 smaller rounds with a curly-edge 2.75-inch cutter for the tops.
  4. Assemble the Cups: Press each large pastry round into the cups of a muffin tray. Fill each with the cooled chicken mixture. Brush the edges of the pastry with a mixture of beaten egg and milk.
  5. Seal and Vent: Place the smaller pastry rounds on top, pressing the edges to seal. Make a small slit on each top for steam to escape.
  6. Bake: Brush the tops with the remaining egg wash. Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  7. Cool and Garnish: Let cool in the tray for 5 minutes before garnishing with chive sticks, cilantro, or green onion, if desired. Serve warm.

Serving Suggestions:

  • These chicken puff pastry cups pair well with a fresh green salad for a light and satisfying meal.
  • Serve them as appetizers at parties or gatherings for a crowd-pleasing treat.
  • Pair with a creamy dip or sauce for added flavor.

Cooking Tips:

  • Ensure the chicken filling is completely cooled before assembling the pastry cups to prevent soggy pastry.
  • Use a sharp knife or pastry cutter for clean and neat edges on the pastry rounds.
  • Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Rich in protein from chicken breast.
  • Provides fiber and vitamins from vegetables like peas and carrots.
  • Moderately indulgent with the puff pastry, making it a satisfying treat.

Dietary Information:

  • Can be made vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or extra vegetables.
  • Check puff pastry packaging for gluten-free options if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile and customizable with your favorite ingredients and seasonings.
  • Deliciously comforting with a crispy, golden pastry and savory chicken filling.

Conclusion:

These Chicken Puff Pastry Cups are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, making them a favorite for both adults and kids alike. Whether served as a meal or snack, their simplicity and deliciousness are sure to make them a regular on your menu. Enjoy the buttery, flaky goodness of puff pastry filled with savory chicken and vegetables!