Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry with Garlic Butter Sauce

Introduction

Craving something warm, flaky, cheesy, and utterly delicious? This recipe for Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry with Garlic Butter Sauce hits all the right notes. These pastries are packed with a savory filling of seasoned chicken and gooey cheese, encased in a light and crispy puff pastry crust. The added touch of a garlic butter sauce drizzled on top or served on the side makes this dish extra indulgent. And to top it off, serve it with a side of Spicy Garlic Aioli, a creamy and tangy dip that adds a delightful kick. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or a cozy night in.

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Ingredients

For the Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry:

• 2 sheets of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste

For the Spicy Garlic Aioli Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thaw the puff pastry sheets according to the package instructions. Make sure the puff pastry is chilled but not frozen when you work with it to ensure it stays crisp and flaky.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine the Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked onions, bell peppers, garlic, shredded chicken, mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, smoked paprika, oregano, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Fill and Seal the Puff Pastry

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each puff pastry sheet to ensure it’s even. Cut each sheet into 6 equal rectangles. Place a generous spoonful of the chicken and cheese mixture in the center of each rectangle. Fold the pastry over the filling to create a pocket, sealing the edges with a fork. Brush the top of each pastry with the beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Pastries

Arrange the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. While the pastries are baking, prepare the garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the lemon juice, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat.

Step 7: Make the Spicy Garlic Aioli Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, sriracha, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 8: Serve the Puff Pastries

Remove the puff pastries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with the warm garlic butter sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Serve the spicy garlic aioli as a dipping sauce.

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COOKING NOTES

• Puff Pastry: Make sure the puff pastry is cold when you fill it. If it gets too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before filling and baking. Cold pastry ensures a crispy, flaky texture.
• Cheese: Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses add depth to the flavor.
• Garlic Butter Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes until it reduces. Adding a touch of flour can also thicken the sauce.
• Spicy Aioli: Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less sriracha. For a milder taste, use smoked paprika alone without the hot sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve these pastries as an appetizer for a party, alongside a fresh garden salad.
• Pair them with roasted vegetables or a light soup for a full meal.
• These are perfect for brunch, served with a side of scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit platter.
• They make a fantastic addition to a picnic spread – easy to transport and delicious at room temperature.
• You can also cut them into smaller pieces and serve them as finger food for a gathering.

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Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can assemble the puff pastries a day in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This saves time if you’re preparing for a party.
2. Freezing Option: These pastries freeze well. Freeze them before baking on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag once solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
4. Customize: Add chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for added veggies. You can also switch up the protein—shredded turkey or ham works just as well.
5. Pastry Edges: Make sure to crimp the edges well with a fork to prevent filling from leaking out. A light brushing of water or egg wash around the edges can help with sealing.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 12 pastries):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 12g
• Sodium: 420mg

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Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry with Garlic Butter Sauce is an irresistible dish that combines the comfort of cheese and chicken with the lightness of puff pastry. The garlic butter sauce adds a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the creamy and savory filling. The spicy garlic aioli gives a tangy kick that elevates each bite. Whether you’re hosting friends, cooking for family, or treating yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its layers of flavor and textures, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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