Braided with vegetables and meat

Puff Pastry Pie with Chicken Breast and Smoked Ham: A Delicious Indulgence

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Have you ever thought about how to turn simple ingredients from your fridge into a culinary masterpiece? The puff pastry pie filled with chicken breast, smoked ham, and vegetables is the perfect answer! This recipe not only combines flavors and textures but also provides a wonderful opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. It’s ideal for a quick dinner, a festive appetizer, or simply to satisfy a special craving.

A Bit About Puff Pastry Pie

Puff pastry pies have a rich and varied history, prepared in different forms and combinations, from sweet to savory. This type of dough, known for its fine and crispy layers, is perfect for enveloping rich fillings, bringing a pleasant contrast between the crunchy crust and the soft center. In our recipe, we combine the intense flavors of smoked meat with the freshness of vegetables and spices, creating a pie that will delight any food lover.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1/2 pack of puff pastry (approximately 250 g, preferably Bella)
- 150 g smoked chicken breast
- 150 g smoked pork belly
- 200 g freshly fried chicken breast
- 4 green onions
- 2 pickled bell peppers
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of mustard
- Pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (to taste)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Oil for greasing the tray

Step by Step: How to Prepare Puff Pastry Pie

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by chopping the smoked chicken breast, smoked pork belly, and fried chicken breast into small pieces. Place them in a large bowl. If you don’t have fresh chicken breast, you can use leftover cooked chicken from a previous meal.

2. Adding Vegetables and Spices
Slice the green onions into thin rings and add them to the bowl with the meat. Peel the garlic and crush it, then add it to the mixture. The pickled bell peppers, drained of juice, should be chopped into small pieces and added to the composition. Mix all the ingredients well.

3. Preparing the Filling
In another bowl, beat the eggs well, reserving a small portion for brushing the pie. Add the flour and mustard to the beaten eggs and mix until smooth. Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the meat and vegetable bowl. Season with pepper, thyme, and finely chopped dill.

4. Preparing the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry on a plastic wrap, being careful not to roll it too thin. Cut the edges into strips. In the center of the puff pastry, place the prepared filling.

5. Braiding and Baking
Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a beautiful pattern. Brush the pie with the reserved egg using a brush. Place the pie in a tray lined with baking paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 35 minutes or until golden and crispy.

6. Serving
Once the pie is baked, let it cool slightly before cutting. Serve it warm, alongside a spicy sauce, ketchup, or even a fresh salad for a pleasant contrast.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For an even more special touch, you can add grated cheese to the filling. It will melt and provide a creamy taste to the pie. You can also experiment with fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to add more flavor.

Nutritional Benefits and Calories

This pie is a good source of protein due to the chicken and eggs, while the vegetables provide vitamins and minerals. One serving (about 1/6 of the pie) has approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. It is a delicious option for a balanced meal, but, as with any recipe, moderation is key.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can use turkey, sausages, or even a combination of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

- How can I store the pie? The pie can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to regain its crispiness.

- Can it be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking it. Once you have prepared it, wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. When you want to serve it, let it thaw completely and then bake it.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious pie, don’t you feel like cooking? This recipe will not only impress your family and friends but will also fill your home with unforgettable aromas. Enjoy your meal!