Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner idea, you’ve come to the right place! These Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are a favorite in my home, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you. They’re not just tasty; they’re also super versatile and can be whipped up quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky pastry filled with creamy chicken and cheese—doesn’t that sound delightful?

These pockets are a hit with everyone, from kids to adults. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at a party or as the main attraction for dinner, they always impress. Plus, you can easily customize them to suit your taste. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these pockets ready for the oven before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the flaky pastry and cheesy filling—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable Filling: You can easily swap out ingredients to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates a savory delight that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need much to make these Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets! The ingredients are simple and wholesome, ensuring that you get a delightful meal without any fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pockets

• 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

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Here are some ways you can switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Try using cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add spices: Sprinkle in some garlic powder or Italian herbs for an extra kick.
• Use different fillings: Experiment with ingredients like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh twist.

How to Make Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your pockets will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown crust.

Step 2: Soften the Cream Cheese

In a microwave-safe bowl, empty the cream cheese and warm it in the microwave for about 15–30 seconds. Softening it makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients, resulting in a smooth filling.

Step 3: Combine Fillings

Once softened, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and shredded mozzarella into the bowl with the cream cheese. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture is where all that delicious flavor comes from!

Step 4: Prepare Puff Pastry Sheets

Defrost your puff pastry sheets according to package instructions. When you’re ready, roll one sheet into a 12×12 square on a lightly floured surface. Cutting it into six squares will make it easy to fill later.

Step 5: Cut and Shape Dough

Repeat this process with your second sheet of puff pastry so that you have twelve pieces total. This is where we start creating our little pockets of joy!

Step 6: Fill Each Pocket

Add about two tablespoons of your chicken mixture to the center of each square—just enough so they’re not overflowing!

Step 7: Seal It Up

Brush some water along two edges of each square using a pastry brush; this helps seal them shut. Fold over into triangles and crimp the edges with a fork to keep everything tucked inside.

Step 8: Chill Before Baking

Place all your triangle pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking—this helps keep their shape while cooking.

Step 9: Brush with Egg Wash

Remove from the fridge and brush each pocket with your egg wash made from mixing one egg with one tablespoon of water. This gives them that beautiful golden color when baked.

Step 10: Bake Until Golden Brown

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes until they’re deep golden brown and absolutely irresistible!

Step 11: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool for five minutes before serving. Trust me; this small wait will be worth it when you take that first bite.

Enjoy making these Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets—they’re sure to become a favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

Creating the perfect Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets is all about the details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use Cold Ingredients – Keeping your puff pastry cold until you’re ready to bake helps achieve that irresistible flaky texture. Warm pastry can lead to a less desirable texture when baked.
• Don’t Overfill – While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overfilling can cause the pockets to burst during baking. Stick to about 2 tablespoons of filling for optimal results.
• Chill Before Baking – Allowing the filled pockets to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking helps them hold their shape. This step also ensures a crispier crust.
• Brush Generously with Egg Wash – Applying a good layer of egg wash gives your pockets a beautiful golden-brown color and enhances their overall appeal. It also adds a slight sheen that makes them look even more appetizing.
• Experiment with Fillings – Feel free to customize your filling! Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can boost flavor and nutrition. Just ensure they are pre-cooked to avoid excess moisture.

How to Serve Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets

These Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are not just delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top not only add color but also enhance the flavor profile.
• Creamy Dip – Serve with a side of ranch or yogurt-based dip for added creaminess and zest.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the puff pastry pockets.
• Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add a healthy touch and vibrant colors to your meal.
• Sweet Potato Fries – These provide a delightful crunch and sweetness that pairs well with the savory pockets.
• Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets will be an absolute hit at dinner time! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To maintain their texture, separate layers with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing

• Before baking, freeze the prepared but unbaked pockets on a baking sheet until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake directly from frozen for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through and golden brown.
• For refrigerated pockets, simply bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets.

Can I make Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pockets ahead of time. Just refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

How do I store Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets after cooking?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well before baking!

What can I use instead of bacon in Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets?

For a delicious alternative, consider using cooked turkey bacon or omitting it altogether. The cream cheese and chicken provide plenty of flavor.

Can I customize the filling for Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets?

Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or experiment with different cheeses based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Chicken Puff Pastry Pockets as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun snack, these pockets are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!