Name: Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Shells
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 100 g (3.5oz) boneless chicken (cut in small cubes); 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 200 g (7oz) white mushrooms; 1 clove garlic (minced); 2 tbsp onion (chopped); 1/2 tsp crushed black pepper; 1 tsp Italian herbs; 1/2 tsp dried tarragon; Salt (to taste); 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cooking cream; Puff pastry sheets; Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 2 tbsp milk)

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Chicken and mushroom puff pastry shells combine the flaky virtues of pastry with a rich, savory filling that warms the heart. This delectable dish has been a go-to in my kitchen, serving as the perfect appetizer for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. The crispy texture juxtaposed with the creamy filling creates a delightful experience when you take that first bite. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and can easily impress your guests.

Golden Chicken Mushroom Puff Pastry Shell filled with savory chicken and mushrooms — Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Shell 7

Table of Contents

Why Make This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with chicken and mushroom puff pastry shells for countless reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly quick to make, ideal for those busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for special occasions. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between comfort and sophistication, making it perfect for a cozy dinner.

“These puff pastry shells are a hit at every dinner party. The combination of creamy chicken and mushrooms in a flaky shell is simply irresistible.”

How to Make Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Shell

Creating these scrumptious puff pastry shells is simpler than you might think. Let’s break down the preparation into manageable steps. These instructions will guide you through each stage, ensuring that your finished dish looks as impressive as it tastes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this recipe:

1 tbsp olive oil
100 g (3.5oz) chicken boneless (cut in small cubes)
1 tbsp butter (unsalted)
200 g (7oz) white mushrooms
1 clove garlic (minced)
2 tbsp onion (chopped)
1/2 tsp crushed black pepper
1 tsp Italian herbs
1/2 tsp dried tarragon
Salt (to taste)
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cooking cream
Puff pastry sheets
Egg wash (1 egg whisked with 2 tbsp milk)

How to Prepare Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Shell

To begin, let’s take this step-by-step:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Heat a pan with olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook until it changes color, typically around 5-7 minutes. To enhance its flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of salt and white pepper. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked, then remove it from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, melt the unsalted butter and sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until they are softened, taking care not to burn them. This will usually take about 2-3 minutes. Following that, add the white mushrooms and cook on medium-high heat until they turn golden brown, approximately 5-6 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Stir in the all-purpose flour, crushed black pepper, Italian herbs, dried tarragon, and more salt, to taste. Stir the mixture well to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Add the Cream

Next, pour in the cooking cream while continuously stirring to prevent any lumpy texture. Cook until the mixture thickens, then turn off the heat and set the filling aside to cool.

Step 5: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Take a frozen sheet of puff pastry; it’s best if it’s not fully thawed. Using a 5 cm (2-inch) cutter, cut rounds from the pastry and space them apart on a parchment-lined baking tray to allow room for puffing.

Step 6: Make the Rings

For additional rounds, use a smaller 3.5 cm (1.25-inch) cutter to remove the center from the larger rounds, creating rings. For every ten bases, prepare twenty rings, ensuring that each base gets two.

Step 7: Assemble the Shells

Brush the base rounds with the egg wash, then gently place one ring on the outer edge. Use a fork to prick the base 2-3 times to prevent it from puffing too high. After this, brush the edges with more egg wash, place the second ring, and finish with a final coat of egg wash on the shell. Repeat until all bases are prepared.

Step 8: Chill the Pastries

Refrigerate the assembled pastries for at least 15 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect puff.

Step 9: Baking

In a preheated oven at 200 °C “400 °F”), bake the pastries for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden and puffed up. Once baked, allow them to cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Shell

These delightful pastries shine best when served immediately, spooned lovingly with the chicken and mushroom filling. Garnish with fresh chives for a touch of color and flavor. Pair them with a refreshing side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store

If you have leftovers (which is rare), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, consider using the oven to retain the pastry’s crunch. For long-term storage, you can freeze filled or unfilled shells for up to a month. Just ensure they are wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Tips to Make

Using a mixture of mushrooms can enhance the flavor profile, consider adding shiitake or cremini.
If you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken works wonderfully as a shortcut.
Keep the egg wash away from the inside of the pastry to ensure the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.

Variations

Feel free to customize the filling! Adding different cheeses, spinach, or even caramelized onions can create a unique twist. For those following dietary restrictions, you can swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas, ensuring a delicious vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Ultimately, chicken and mushroom puff pastry shells are a marvelous addition to your culinary repertoire. Not only do they embody the essence of comfort food, but they also bring a touch of sophistication to your dining table. I encourage you to try this recipe and sprinkle some of your creativity into it. Don’t forget to comment below if you enjoy it, and share your variations!

FAQ

What is the prep time for this recipe?

Prep time typically takes about 30 minutes, but allowing the pastry to chill may add some extra time.

Can I freeze the puff pastry shells?

Absolutely! You can freeze both filled and unfilled shells. Just make sure they are tightly wrapped.

What can I substitute for chicken?

Tofu, chickpeas, or any type of cooked poultry works well if you’re looking for a substitute.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Opt for low-fat cream or substitute half the cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter flavor without sacrificing creaminess.

Can I make the filling in advance?

Yes, the filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure that it cools completely before storing to maintain its texture.