chicken pastries have always been a beloved comfort food, offering a delightful blend of savory and flaky goodness. Today, we’re taking this classic dish to new heights, infusing it with a global flavor profile that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup vegetable shortening, cold and cubed
5-6 tablespoons ice water
Crack Chicken Pastry Puffs
Image Source: plainchicken.com
For the Filling:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped celery
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
1. Make the Pastry:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Cut in the butter and shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, tossing with a fork until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a large skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
Stir in the thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
Add the flour and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the shredded chicken and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface. Place it in a 9-inch pie plate.
Pour the filling into the crust.
Roll out the second disc of dough and cut into strips.
Weave the strips over the filling to create a lattice top.
Brush the pastry with beaten egg and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Serving Ideas:
Serve warm with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Drizzle with a creamy garlic sauce or a tangy cranberry sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Cultural Influences:
This recipe is a harmonious blend of various culinary traditions. The pastry technique is rooted in European baking traditions, while the filling draws inspiration from American comfort food. The addition of spices like thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper adds a global touch, reflecting the diverse flavors of the world.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through time and culture, a testament to the power of food to bring people together.
