Creamy Chicken Puff Pastries are a celebration of buttery, flaky pastry and a rich, flavorful chicken filling. These pastries are the perfect blend of crisp textures and savory indulgence, making them a versatile dish that works equally well for family dinners, party appetizers, or casual snacks. Combining the elegance of French pastry with the comforting warmth of a creamy chicken filling, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Puff pastries have long been a symbol of sophistication in the culinary world, and their versatility has ensured their place as a staple in both sweet and savory dishes. In this recipe, we pair the light, airy layers of puff pastry with a luscious chicken filling, seasoned with nutmeg, garlic, chili flakes, and black pepper for a balanced, aromatic flavor. Green onions and cilantro add a fresh touch, while Cheddar cheese brings a comforting richness to every bite.
Whether you’re preparing these pastries for a holiday feast, a potluck, or just to enjoy with a warm cup of tea, they are guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive into the details of this timeless recipe, exploring how to achieve perfection at every step.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 450 grams shredded chicken (pre-cooked)
- 40 grams unsalted butter
- 40 grams all-purpose flour
- 375 ml milk
- 45 grams grated Cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup (8 grams) chopped cilantro
- ½ cup (52 grams) chopped green onions
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
For the Pastry:
- 6 sheets of 12″x10″ puff pastry
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12 pastries
- Calories per Serving: 290 kcal
Steps to Prepare
1. Prepare the Filling
- Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture forms a paste and turns slightly golden. - Create the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. - Add the Seasonings and Cheese:
Stir in the salt, nutmeg, garlic powder, chili flakes, and black pepper. Remove from heat and mix in the grated Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. - Incorporate the Chicken and Greens:
Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, and green onions. Mix until everything is evenly combined. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Pastry
- Thaw the Pastry Sheets:
If using frozen puff pastry, thaw it according to the package instructions. Ensure the sheets are pliable but still cold. - Cut the Pastry:
Lay each sheet flat on a lightly floured surface and cut it into 6 equal rectangles (each approximately 4″x5″).
3. Assemble the Pastries
- Fill the Pastries:
Place 2 tablespoons of the cooled chicken filling in the center of each rectangle. Fold the pastry over to form a triangle or rectangle, depending on your preference. Press the edges firmly with a fork to seal. - Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create the egg wash. Brush the top of each pastry with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish. - Score the Pastries:
Use a sharp knife to make a small slit or decorative score on the top of each pastry. This allows steam to escape during baking.
4. Bake
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Bake the Pastries:
Arrange the pastries on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastries are golden brown and puffed.
5. Serve
- Let the pastries cool for 5 minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Creamy Chicken Puff Pastries are a timeless favorite because they bring together the best of classic cooking techniques and universal flavors. The buttery, flaky layers of puff pastry have been cherished for centuries as a symbol of culinary refinement, while the creamy, well-seasoned chicken filling offers warmth and comfort.
This dish is versatile enough to suit any occasion. It works equally well as a casual snack, a formal appetizer, or a main dish when paired with a side salad or soup. Its balanced flavors and textures appeal to a wide range of palates, ensuring it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Moreover, the recipe’s adaptability makes it a kitchen essential. You can customize the filling to suit your preferences—adding vegetables, swapping out the chicken for turkey, or experimenting with different spices and cheeses.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling?
Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred it finely before incorporating it into the filling.
2. Can I freeze the assembled pastries?
Absolutely! Assemble the pastries, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
3. Can I make these pastries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pastries fresh for the best results.
4. What can I use instead of puff pastry?
If you prefer, you can use phyllo dough or even biscuit dough as an alternative.
Tips for Success
- Keep the Pastry Cold: Cold puff pastry is easier to handle and puffs up better during baking. If it becomes too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes before assembling.
- Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the pastries can cause them to burst open during baking. Stick to 2 tablespoons of filling per pastry.
- Use Sharp Tools: A sharp knife or pastry cutter ensures clean cuts and professional-looking edges.
- Customize the Filling: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
- Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked pastries for up to 2 months. Reheat or bake directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Puff Pastries are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of timeless culinary techniques and universally loved flavors. From the flaky, golden crust to the rich, savory filling, every bite is a testament to the beauty of home-cooked food. This dish combines the elegance of French-inspired pastry with the comforting flavors of a creamy chicken filling, creating a treat that’s both luxurious and approachable.
What makes these pastries truly timeless is their versatility. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Their ease of preparation and adaptability ensure they’ll remain a go-to recipe in your kitchen for years to come.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and experience the joy of creating this classic dish. Creamy Chicken Puff Pastries are not just a meal—they’re a memory waiting to be made, a tradition waiting to be started, and a delight waiting to be savored.