I don’t know about you, but there’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of chicken, mushrooms, and flaky pastry. I first stumbled upon this delightful Chicken and Mushroom Pastry recipe at a family get-together, where my aunt made a batch that disappeared faster than you can say “yum!” Ever since then, I’ve been hooked, and I just had to recreate that cozy feeling in my own kitchen. These little pastries are perfect for gatherings, as snacks, or even for a cozy dinner at home. Just beware: once you start, it’s hard to stop!
So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting your feet wet in the kitchen, trust me, this recipe is approachable and so satisfying. I can’t wait to share it with you all!
What’s in Chicken and Mushroom Pastry?
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I like to use cooked and shredded chicken breast for its lean protein — great for keeping those energy levels up.
Mushrooms: I used 8 ounces of finely chopped mushrooms, which add a beautiful earthiness and texture to these pastries. You can go wild and use your favorite mushroom, but I usually stick with button mushrooms for their versatility.
Onion and Garlic: The dynamic duo of aromatics! Sautéing these first brings out such amazing flavors, making every bite of these pastries burst with taste.
Cream Cheese: This creamy goodness ties everything together and creates a luscious filling that’s simply irresistible.
Dried Thyme: A classic herb that elevates the flavors with its warm, earthy notes. Feel free to switch it up based on your taste preferences.
Salt and Pepper: Just a little seasoning goes a long way in bringing out the best in these ingredients.
Puff Pastry: The flaky outer layer that makes this dish so special! I usually pick up a package of frozen puff pastry sheets from the store, which makes life so much easier.
Egg: For that golden, shiny finish — it’s like giving your pastries a little spa treatment before they go in the oven!
Fresh Dill or Parsley: A sprinkle of green adds that touch of freshness and a pop of color to these golden beauties.
Is Chicken and Mushroom Pastry Good for You?
Let’s be real, while this dish is comfort food at its finest, it definitely has some health benefits too!
Chicken Breast: A lean protein, it keeps you feeling full and supports muscle maintenance.
Mushrooms: Aside from adding flavor, they’re low in calories and rich in fiber, which is great for digestion!
Cream Cheese: While delicious, it is a bit richer, so if you’re looking to lighten it up, you could opt for a light cream cheese or even Greek yogurt.
Overall, these pastries can certainly be part of a balanced diet, especially when served with a side salad of mixed greens to add some veggies to your meal!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry (2 sheets)
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
– Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Makes about 12 pastries.
How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Pastry?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent.
3. Toss in the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then stir in the shredded chicken and cream cheese until well combined.
5. Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into squares or rectangles (about 4×4 inches).
6. Place a tablespoon of the chicken and mushroom mixture in the center of each pastry square.
7. Fold the pastry over to create a pocket and press the edges with a fork to seal.
8. Transfer the pastries to a lined baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pastries for a lovely golden finish.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastries are puffed up and golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
Elevate Your Pastry Game!
These pastries are incredible warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making them a great choice for parties or picnics. Want to switch things up? You could add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for some heat or experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano!
I really think you’re going to love making and sharing these Chicken and Mushroom Pastries as much as I do. They’re a delightful way to bring people together, and I promise they’ll become a go-to favorite! So go ahead, give it a whirl, and don’t forget to drop me a note about how they turned out! Enjoy!
