Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out during the holidays? This Chicken Puff Pastry is the perfect answer for your next winter gathering.
It delivers a warm, creamy filling wrapped in a flaky, golden shell. You will love how it fills your home with a savory, buttery aroma. It feels special but stays wonderfully simple to make.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a winner because it looks like it came from a fancy bakery. It is perfect for busy winter evenings when you need a crowd-pleasing snack fast.
You can use leftover chicken to save even more time. The combination of cream cheese and herbs makes every bite feel rich and indulgent. Your family will ask for these every single week.
Simple Method
Making these turnovers is surprisingly easy and very hands-on. You simply mix the filling and fold it into pre-made dough squares. Even if you have never worked with pastry, you can do this with confidence.
The secret is the egg wash for that beautiful shine. It takes just a few minutes to prep before the oven does the work. You will love the satisfying crunch of the first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen or easy to find. Using fresh green onions adds a lovely pop of color to the creamy center.
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until well incorporated.
- Unroll the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into four 5-inch squares.
- Place approximately 3 tablespoons of the chicken filling into the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle and use a fork to crimp and seal the edges tightly.
- Whisk the egg and water in a small bowl to create an egg wash.
- Brush the tops of each pastry turnover with the egg wash and cut a small slit in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and deep golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these warm while the pastry is still at its crispiest. They pair beautifully with a light side salad or roasted vegetables. For a holiday party, set them out on a pretty wooden platter.
You can also serve them with a side of honey mustard for dipping. Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy these with your favorite people. They are pure comfort food in every bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for three days. To keep the pastry crisp, avoid using the microwave for reheating. Instead, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
You can also freeze the unbaked turnovers for a quick future meal. Just bake them straight from the freezer and add a few extra minutes. This makes holiday prep so much easier for you.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the egg wash for that classic golden glow.
- Make sure your cream cheese is very soft for easy mixing.
- Avoid overfilling the squares so the edges seal perfectly.
- Use a fork to crimp the edges to prevent leaks.
- For the holidays, sprinkle a little dried parsley on top.
- Keep the pastry dough cold until you are ready to fold.
- Cut a small slit in the top to let steam escape.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add a handful of shredded cheddar for a cheesy twist.
- Swap the thyme for rosemary for an earthy winter flavor.
- Try using leftover turkey after a big holiday meal.
- Add finely diced red peppers for a festive color boost.
Common Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them a few hours early. Keep them covered in the fridge until you are ready to bake. This is a great time-saver for busy hosts.
How do I know when they are done?
The pastry should be high, flaky, and a deep golden brown. If they look pale, give them another two minutes. The smell of toasted pastry is a great sign!
Will kids like this recipe?
Absolutely, kids love the mild flavor and the fun triangle shape. It is a picky-eater friendly meal that feels like a treat. You can even let them help crimp the edges.
I hope this cozy recipe brightens your winter evenings. Give it a try and let every golden bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Chicken Puff Pastry
Ingredients
- 2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon sal t
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large eg g
- 1 tablespoon wate r
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until well incorporated.
- Unroll the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface and cut each sheet into four 5-inch squares.
- Place approximately 3 tablespoons of the chicken filling into the center of each pastry square.
- Fold the pastry over the filling to form a triangle and use a fork to crimp and seal the edges tightly.
- Whisk the egg and water in a small bowl to create an egg wash.
- Brush the tops of each pastry turnover with the egg wash and cut a small slit in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and deep golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
