Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Pies

These delightful chicken and mushroom puff pastry pies are a perfect blend of savory flavors wrapped in a flaky pastry. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, they make an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a light main dish. The creamy filling of chicken, mushrooms, and herbs is sure to impress your family and friends.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8 pies

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Ingredients:

• Puff Pastry: 500g (17.6 oz)
• Chicken Breast: 350g (12.3 oz), cut into pieces
• Mushrooms: 250g (8.8 oz), cut into pieces
• Brown Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Cream Cheese: 150g (⅔ cup)
• Chopped Parsley: 1 ½ tablespoons
• Herbes de Provence: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Egg Yolk: 1
• Milk: 1 tablespoon

Directions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a medium-high heat pan, add a drizzle of light olive oil.
• Sauté the diced onion for 2 minutes until translucent.
• Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 ½ minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Incorporate the mushrooms and cook for an additional 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add the herbes de Provence and chopped parsley, stirring for 1 minute.
• Finally, add the cream cheese and mix for 1 ½ minutes until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt to taste and stir for another 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool.

2. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 200 °C (400°F) or 180 °C for fan ovens (Gas Mark 6).

3. Prepare the Pastry:

• On a floured work surface, roll out the puff pastry. Cut it into squares of approximately 12 x 12 cm (4.7 x 4.7 inches).
• Gently stretch the pastry squares using your fingers to make them slightly larger.

4. Assemble the Pies:

• Place about 1 ½ tablespoons of the filling in the center of each pastry square.
• Fold the pastry over to create a triangle and pinch the edges to seal tightly (refer to the video for visual guidance).
• Arrange the stuffed pastries on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

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5. Brush and Bake:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk.
• Brush the mixture over the tops of the pastries to give them a beautiful golden finish.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the pastries are puffed and golden brown.

6. Serve:

• Allow the pastries to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh dill for added flavor. Enjoy your delicious chicken and mushroom puff pastry pies!

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: The pies can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked pastries. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: These pies are simple to prepare, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and cream cheese creates a rich and satisfying filling that is sure to please.
• Versatile: Enjoy these pastries as a snack, appetizer, or paired with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Nutritional Benefits:

• Protein-Rich: The chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for muscle health.
• Vegetable Goodness: Mushrooms and onions add vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use store-bought filling?
   Yes, you can use pre-made chicken and mushroom filling if you’re short on time.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
   Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or leeks for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Can I make these pies ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble them in advance, then bake just before serving.
4. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
   You can use ricotta cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lighter filling.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in the oven at 180 °C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until warmed through for the best texture.
6. Can I freeze the baked pastries?
   Yes, you can freeze the baked pastries. Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container.
7. How can I make these pies gluten-free?
   Use a gluten-free puff pastry available in stores for a gluten-free option.
8. What should I serve with these pies?
   They pair wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
9. Can I bake them in an air fryer?
   Yes, you can air fry them at 180 °C (350°F) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
10. What can I use instead of egg yolk for brushing?
    You can use milk or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.