Savory Chicken Pastries

This delightful recipe for savory chicken pastries combines a flaky, buttery pastry with a rich and flavorful filling. Perfect for a family gathering or a cozy meal at home, these pastries will surely impress. The light and crispy dough envelops a savory mix of chicken, sweet corn, and herbs, with a subtle hint of curry. Baked to golden perfection, each bite offers a wonderful contrast between the tender, juicy filling and the crisp pastry. The use of fresh ingredients ensures a comforting and satisfying dish that can adapt to various tastes. These pastries are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an ideal choice for special occasions. The preparation includes letting the dough rest to enhance its texture, ensuring a perfect outcome. Serve them as appetizers, side dishes, or the main course, depending on your preference. They are versatile, matching well with various side dishes and drinks. This recipe invites exploration, encouraging you to try different fillings or flavors to suit your palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g all-purpose flour
• 300 g cold butter
• 50 g fresh yeast
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 egg for brushing
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1/2 tsp salt

Filling

• 250 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 100 g sweet corn
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp curry powder
• Small bundle of spring onions, chopped finely
• Pinch of salt
• Oil for frying

Preparation Time

100 minutes (includes prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by sifting the flour onto a clean working surface. Use a knife to chop the cold butter into the flour, creating a crumbly texture.
2. In a separate bowl, combine water with yeast, vinegar, and salt. Stir well to mix the ingredients.
3. Form a mound with the flour and make a well in the center. Pour the yeast mixture into the well.
4. Using a knife, gently incorporate the liquid into the flour, then knead by hand to form a uniform dough.
5. Cover the dough and let it rest in a cool place, like the fridge, for 30 minutes to enhance the texture.
6. While the dough is resting, prepare the filling. Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt for about 5 minutes until cooked.
7. Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then finely chop it and mix with corn, spring onions, mayonnaise, and curry powder.
8. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
9. Roll out the dough to a thickness of around 5 millimeters, then cut it into squares.
10. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each square and fold diagonally to form triangles.
11. Seal the edges by pressing them with the back of a fork for a decorative touch.
12. Brush the top of each pastry with a beaten egg to ensure a glossy, golden finish.
13. Arrange the pastries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, keeping them 3-4 cm apart.
14. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the pastries are golden brown.
15. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips

• Use cold butter to achieve a flakier texture in the pastry.
• Substitute chicken with mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Experiment with spices by adding paprika or cumin for additional flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 12 g
• Fats: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g

Variations

• Substitute chicken with beef or pork for a different taste.
• Use whole grain flour for a healthier version.
• Add cheese to the filling for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
• Serve alongside a cool, creamy yogurt dip for contrast.
• Complement the pastries with a glass of white wine or herbal tea.

Best Places

1. Le Cordon Bleu - Renowned for exquisite pastries and gourmet dining. Location: 8 Rue Léon Delhomme, Paris, France.
2. Epelboim Bakery - Offers a delightful variety of international pastries. Location: Calle del Conde de Peñalver, 51, Madrid, Spain.
3. The Cheese Board Collective - Known for its creative and savory pastries. Location: 1504 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
4. Paul Bakery - Classic French pastries with a modern twist. Location: Various locations, London, England.
5. Zumi Bakery - A cozy spot with a focus on organic, artisan pastries. Location: 233 High St, Northcote VIC, Australia.
6. Tartine Bakery - Celebrated for its flaky and indulgent pastries. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
7. Café Central - Viennese coffeehouse with elegant pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
8. Confeitaria Colombo - Offers a blend of traditional and contemporary pastries. Location: R. Gonçalves Dias, 32, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
9. Ciel Bleu - Offers a unique view and upscale pastries in Japan. Location: 3 Chome-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo, Japan.
10. Pasticceria Marchesi - A Milanese icon for refined pastries. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, 9, Milan, Italy.