Crispy Chicken and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets – The Perfect Bite-Sized Treat

Introduction

Looking for a snack that’s both delicious and easy to make? These Crispy Chicken and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are the perfect solution! With their golden, flaky puff pastry exterior and a creamy chicken and cheese filling, these bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your hunger. Whether you’re entertaining guests, craving a quick meal, or just want to enjoy a savory snack, these puff pastry pockets will hit the spot. Let’s jump right into making this simple yet flavorful recipe!

Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry Pockets:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the puff pastry pockets.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry

1. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the puff pastry sheet. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, it should already be ready for cutting.
2. Cut the pastry into squares, about 3×3 inches or larger depending on your preference for bite size.

Step 3: Make the Chicken and Cheese Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well-combined, with a creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Puff Pastry Pockets

1. Place a spoonful of the chicken and cheese mixture in the center of each puff pastry square.
2. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a pocket or simply fold it into a triangle. Press down the edges with a fork to seal the pastry and prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.

Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash

1. Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a brush to apply a light egg wash over the top of each pastry pocket. This will give the pastries a beautiful golden-brown finish once they are baked.
2. Optional: Sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and texture.

Step 6: Bake the Pastry Pockets

1. Place the filled pastry pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden, crispy, and puffed up.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Once out of the oven, let the puff pastry pockets cool slightly.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the filling for a burst of extra flavor and texture.
• If you don’t have leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken is a great alternative that saves time and effort.
• These puff pastry pockets can be frozen before baking. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Crispy Chicken and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets are a must-try for anyone who loves delicious, savory bites. With their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling, they make the perfect snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Plus, they’re so easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or something to impress at a party, these puff pastry pockets won’t disappoint.

Call to Action
Have you made these Crispy Chicken and Cheese Puff Pastry Pockets yet? Let us know how they turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out more easy and delicious recipes on our blog for all your snacking needs.