Savory Cheese Pancakes with Chicken Filling

These savory cheese pancakes with a delicious chicken filling make for a perfect meal, whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The combination of tender, fluffy pancakes and flavorful chicken filling creates a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Packed with protein and nutrients, this recipe is both wholesome and versatile, making it a great option for any occasion.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
    Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 6 small eggs
  • 250g curd cheese (e.g., Philadelphia)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 25g vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon sweetener or sugar (optional, for balance)

For the Filling:

  • 300g chicken fillet (boiled and shredded)
  • 300g onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried garlic
  • Chicken broth, as needed

Directions:

1. Preparing the Dough:

  • Blend Ingredients:
    Crack the eggs into a blender. Add salt, and if you’re making sweet pancakes, add the sweetener or sugar. Add the curd cheese and baking soda. Blend the mixture until smooth.
  • Add Oil:
    Pour the blended mixture into a bowl and mix in the vegetable oil until well combined.

2. Cooking the Pancakes:

  • Heat the Pan:
    Heat a frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with vegetable oil.
  • Cook the Pancakes:
    Pour a small amount of the batter into the pan and spread it evenly. Cook on low heat until both sides are golden brown. Repeat until all the batter is used (this recipe makes about 15-16 pancakes).

3. Preparing the Filling:

  • Fry the Onions:
    Heat vegetable oil in a pan, then fry the onions until golden brown.
  • Add the Chicken:
    Shred the boiled chicken fillet and add it to the onions. Season with salt, pepper, and dried garlic. Add a bit of chicken broth to keep the filling moist. Mix well and remove from heat.

4. Assembling the Pancakes:

  • Fill the Pancakes:
    Place a spoonful of the chicken filling onto each pancake and fold them into an envelope shape.
  • Optional:
    For extra crispiness, lightly fry the filled pancakes on both sides in a pan.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
  • Pair with a dipping sauce like garlic yogurt or tomato salsa for added flavor.
  • Enjoy as a light main course or hearty snack.

Cooking Tips:

  • Pan Care: Ensure the frying pan is well-heated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
  • Herb Variation: Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the filling for extra flavor.
  • Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder for a spicier filling.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • High in Protein: The eggs and chicken provide plenty of protein to keep you satisfied.
  • Rich in Calcium: The curd cheese adds a good amount of calcium for bone health.
  • Balanced Meal: This recipe combines protein, fats, and vegetables for a nutritious, balanced meal.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free: The recipe is gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain flour (ensure baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free).
  • Low Carb: The absence of traditional flour makes this a low-carb option.
  • High Protein: A great source of protein from the eggs, cheese, and chicken.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 550mg

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover pancakes and filling separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Pancakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Flavorful: The savory combination of cheese and chicken is rich and delicious.
  • Nutritious: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, it’s a healthy option for any meal.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and easily customize the filling to your liking.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: Make these ahead of time for an easy meal during busy weekdays.

Conclusion:

These savory cheese pancakes with chicken filling are a delightful and nutritious option for any meal. The soft and tender pancakes, combined with the flavorful chicken filling, create a dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these pancakes will quickly become a family favorite. Try experimenting with different fillings and flavors to make it your own, and enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use another type of cheese?
    Yes, you can substitute curd cheese with cream cheese or even ricotta for a slightly different texture.
  2. Can I bake the pancakes instead of frying them?
    These pancakes are best fried for a soft texture, but you can experiment with baking them on a non-stick tray at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
  3. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling?
    Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken works well and can save time.
  4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
    You can substitute curd cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  5. What other fillings can I use?
    You can use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or other cooked vegetables for a vegetarian option.
  6. Can I make the pancakes ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the pancakes ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer, then fill and serve when ready.
  7. Can I use almond or coconut flour for the batter?
    This recipe doesn’t require flour, but if you want to add a small amount for structure, almond or coconut flour will work well.
  8. How do I keep the pancakes from sticking to the pan?
    Make sure the pan is non-stick and well-greased with oil before cooking each pancake.
  9. Can I make this dish spicy?
    Yes, add chili flakes or hot sauce to the filling for a spicier version.
  10. What can I serve with these pancakes?
    Serve with a fresh salad, dipping sauces like yogurt or sour cream, or alongside roasted vegetables.