Growing up, my grandmother Julia made the best chicken pastries—flaky, buttery, and packed with rich flavors. Whether as a comforting meal or a party snack, these pastries always brought people together. They are the perfect combination of crispy layers and savory chicken filling, making them a household favorite across different cultures.
Today, I’m sharing seven of the best chicken pastry recipes, each offering a unique twist on this classic dish. From Southern-style chicken pastry to crispy curry puffs, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. If you love baking with chicken, don’t miss our Chicken Pot Pie Recipe, another comforting classic!
Table of Contents
1. Classic Southern Chicken and Pastry
A true Southern comfort food, this dish is more of a savory stew than a baked pastry. It consists of tender shredded chicken and homemade pastry strips, simmered in a flavorful broth. This hearty meal is a staple in Southern households.
Ingredients:
- Whole chicken (boiled and shredded)
- Flour, butter, salt, and pepper
- Chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- Seasonings (thyme, garlic powder, black pepper)
Instructions:
- Cook the chicken in a large pot until tender, then shred the meat.
- Prepare the pastry dough using flour and butter, then roll and cut it into strips.
- Simmer the dough in homemade chicken broth until soft.
- Add the shredded chicken and let everything meld together for a rich, comforting dish.
Pro Tip: For a richer taste, add a splash of heavy cream at the end. Serve with warm cornbread for an authentic Southern meal!
2. Creamy Chicken Puff Pastry
For a flaky, buttery treat, chicken puff pastry is a perfect choice. These pastries are quick, delicious, and ideal for snacks or appetizers.
Ingredients:
- Store-bought puff pastry sheets
- Cooked chicken, cream cheese, garlic, and herbs
- Egg wash for a golden finish
Instructions:
- Mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, garlic, and seasonings.
- Cut puff pastry sheets into squares, adding a spoonful of the filling.
- Fold and seal the edges, then brush with an egg wash.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and puffed.
This recipe pairs well with a fresh Caesar Salad for a complete meal! Serve with a side of garlic butter sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Moroccan Chicken Bastilla
A unique blend of sweet and savory flavors, Moroccan Bastilla is a dish that features chicken, warm spices, and crunchy almonds, all wrapped in a delicate phyllo dough crust.
Ingredients:
- Warka or phyllo dough
- Chicken, almonds, eggs, cinnamon, powdered sugar
- Saffron, cumin, and coriander for a rich Moroccan flavor
Instructions:
- Cook chicken with Moroccan spices, then shred.
- Mix with beaten eggs and toasted almonds.
- Layer within phyllo dough, folding into a round pie shape.
- Bake until crisp, then dust with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
For more on Moroccan cuisine, check out this Authentic Tagine Recipe.
4. Chicken and Mushroom Puff Pastry Pies
These mini savory pies are filled with creamy chicken and mushrooms inside a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect for parties or lunchboxes!
Ingredients:
- Puff pastry sheets
- Chicken, mushrooms, heavy cream
- Garlic, thyme, and butter
Instructions:
- Sauté chopped mushrooms with garlic and butter.
- Mix in shredded chicken and heavy cream.
- Fill pastry shells, then bake at 375°F until golden brown.
5. Spiced Chicken Empanadas
A Latin American classic, empanadas are crispy, handheld pastries filled with spiced chicken.
Ingredients:
- Empanada dough
- Chicken, onions, bell peppers
- Cumin, paprika, and oregano
Instructions:
- Cook chicken with spices until fully flavored.
- Fill empanada dough, sealing edges with a fork.
- Bake or fry until golden brown.
6. Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry Crust
A comforting chicken pot pie with a buttery puff pastry crust is perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken, mixed vegetables
- Creamy sauce made from butter and flour
- Puff pastry for the crust
Instructions:
- Make a creamy filling by cooking chicken, veggies, and sauce.
- Transfer to a pie dish, covering with puff pastry.
- Bake at 400°F until golden and flaky.
7. Asian-Inspired Chicken Curry Puffs
These crispy pastries are packed with spiced chicken and potatoes, offering a delicious Asian twist.
Ingredients:
- Puff pastry
- Chicken, potatoes, curry powder
- Onions, garlic, and spices
Instructions:
- Cook chicken and potatoes with curry powder.
- Fill pastry squares, folding into triangles.
- Bake until golden brown.
FAQs
1. What is the best type of pastry for chicken pastries?
The best pastry depends on the texture you want. Puff pastry is ideal for a light, flaky texture, while phyllo dough gives a crisp, delicate crunch. For a firmer bite, empanada dough works best.
2. Can I prepare chicken pastries in advance?
Yes! Most chicken pastries can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them and bake directly from frozen.
3. What are the best seasonings for chicken pastries?
Common seasonings include garlic powder, thyme, paprika, cumin, and black pepper. For a Mediterranean twist, try oregano and lemon zest.
4. How do I keep my chicken pastry from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure your filling is not too wet and avoid overloading the pastry. Also, bake at the right temperature to allow for proper crisping.
5. What side dishes pair well with chicken pastries?
Great sides include Caesar salad, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple tomato soup.
Conclusion
From classic Southern chicken pastry to the rich Moroccan bastilla, these seven chicken pastry recipes showcase the versatility of this beloved dish. Each recipe highlights unique flavors and techniques, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re in the mood for a creamy and flaky chicken puff pastry, a savory empanada, or a comforting pot pie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Beyond their delicious taste, chicken pastries are also highly adaptable. You can experiment with different doughs, add a variety of herbs and spices, or incorporate seasonal ingredients to make each recipe your own. Many of these pastries can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for meal prep or entertaining guests. Plus, with the right combination of ingredients, you can easily turn these dishes into healthier alternatives by using whole wheat pastry, lean chicken, and reduced-fat fillings.
If you’re a fan of homemade comfort food, these recipes are a must-try. Not only do they bring together crispy, buttery, and savory flavors, but they also offer a perfect balance between indulgence and tradition. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a gathering, or just looking for a satisfying meal, these chicken pastries will never disappoint.
Try these recipes and let me know your favorite! I’d love to hear about your personal twists and variations. Looking for more chicken-inspired dishes? Be sure to check out our Chicken Recipe for more inspiration. Happy cooking! 🍽️