Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

If you’re looking for a delightful and comforting dish to whip up on a busy weeknight, I have the perfect recipe for you: Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets. These little pockets of goodness are filled with shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and just the right amount of crispy bacon—making them a hit at family gatherings or casual dinners alike. They’re not only delicious but also so simple to make that even your kids can help!

What I love most about these Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets is how versatile they are. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or make a batch ahead of time for those evenings when you need a quick meal. Trust me; once you try them, they might just become a regular on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these tasty pockets ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves flaky pastry filled with savory chicken and cheese—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and freeze; just bake when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and bacon creates an irresistible filling that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets require simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 sheets frozen puff pastry (defrosted according to package directions)
• 8 ounce container Philadelphia Chive and Onion Flavored Cream Cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken breast
• 1/3 cup cooked crumbled bacon
• 1 egg (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)
• 1 tablespoon additional water

Variations

The beauty of Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets is their flexibility! Here are a few fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Feel free to use shredded turkey or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian twist!
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Add some spice: Toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
• Try new fillings: Think outside the box by adding spinach, artichokes, or even sun-dried tomatoes.

How to Make Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is important because it ensures that your puff pastry will rise beautifully while baking.

Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

Empty the cream cheese into a microwave-safe bowl and warm it in the microwave for about 15 – 30 seconds. This makes it easier to blend with the other ingredients later on.

Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients

Now, add the cooked shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and shredded mozzarella to the softened cream cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. This flavorful mixture will be the star of your pockets!

Step 4: Roll Out Your Puff Pastry

Defrost your puff pastry sheets according to package directions. On a lightly floured surface, roll one sheet at a time into a square about 12×12 inches. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut each sheet into six squares.

Step 5: Fill Each Pocket

Add around two tablespoons of your chicken and cheese mixture to the center of each square. Be careful not to overfill; you want enough room to seal them properly!

Step 6: Seal Them Up

Use a pastry brush to dab some water along the edges of two sides of each square. Then fold each square into a triangle shape and crimp the edges with a fork. This seals in all that tasty filling!

Step 7: Chill Before Baking

Place all your filled pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps maintain their shape during baking.

Step 8: Brush with Egg Wash

Remove the tray from the fridge and brush each pocket with an egg wash made from one egg mixed with one tablespoon of water. This will give them that gorgeous golden color when baked.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes or until they are puffed up and deeply golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible!

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack for about five minutes before serving. Enjoy these delicious Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets warm!

There you have it! A delightful recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike while being easy enough for any night of the week. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

Creating the perfect Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your pockets turn out perfectly every time.

• Keep the pastry cold: Working with chilled puff pastry helps it to rise beautifully in the oven, resulting in a flaky and airy texture. If your dough warms up too much, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
• Don’t overfill: Less is more when it comes to the filling! Overstuffing can cause the pockets to burst during baking, so stick to about 2 tablespoons per pocket for optimal results.
• Seal well: Properly crimping the edges with a fork not only enhances the visual appeal but also prevents any filling from leaking out during baking. A good seal keeps all those delicious flavors inside!
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or swapping in different cheeses. This versatility allows you to customize each batch to suit your taste preferences.
• Serve with a dip: Pairing your Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets with a dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli can elevate your dish and add an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.

How to Serve Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

Presentation can make a big difference when serving these delightful pockets. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or chives on top adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Citrus zest: A light sprinkle of lemon or lime zest can enhance the flavors and give your pockets a refreshing kick.

Side Dishes

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken pockets.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add color and nutrition while complementing the savory flavors of the main dish.
• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken pockets, making for a comforting side option.
• Soup: A warm bowl of tomato basil or creamy vegetable soup can round out your meal perfectly—especially on chilly evenings!

Enjoy making and serving these Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets at your next meal! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and have delicious, easy-to-reheat meals ready for busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy leftovers within 3-4 days for the best taste.

Freezing

• Cool the baked pockets completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen pockets to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1 minute but expect a softer pastry texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare these pockets and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later. Just follow the storage instructions above.

What can I substitute for the cream cheese in Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets?

If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using ricotta cheese mixed with herbs or even a dairy-free cream cheese if you prefer!

How do I ensure my Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are crispy?

To achieve that perfect crispy texture, be sure to chill your assembled pockets before baking and use an egg wash on top before placing them in the oven.

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets?

Definitely! Feel free to include cooked spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add more flavor and nutrition.

How many servings do Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets make?

This recipe makes 12 delightful pockets—perfect for sharing or saving for later!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets! They’re not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun snack for guests, they’re sure to impress. Enjoy making this recipe and don’t hesitate to share your experience—happy cooking!