Chicken Pies with Salsa

Chicken and Salsa Pie Recipe: A Simple and Versatile Delight

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love a freshly baked pie with a delicious filling? This chicken and salsa pie recipe is not only simple but also versatile, perfect for family meals or special occasions. Plus, the dough can also be used for sweet pies, so your imagination is the limit.

A Brief History of Pies

Pies have a long history, made in various forms and with different fillings over time. Often associated with moments of conviviality, they are a symbol of culinary traditions worldwide. Whether savory or sweet, pies bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every meal. Here’s how you can prepare these delicious chicken and salsa pies in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

For the Dough:
- 500 g flour (preferably type 000)
- 250 ml warm water
- 3-4 tablespoons oil (olive oil is an excellent choice)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white wine vinegar works great)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 100 g flour for dusting the work surface

For the Filling:
- 1 chicken breast, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 50 ml water
- 250 g cream cheese (choose a low-fat version for a healthier option)
- Half a bunch of dill, chopped
- A pinch of salt

For the Salsa:
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, depending on your preferences)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3-4 sprigs of dill or parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Sift the flour with the baking powder and salt. Then, make a well in the center of the mixture and add the warm water, oil, and vinegar. Using a spatula or your hands, mix the ingredients until you form a ball of dough.

Helpful tips: It is essential that the water is warm, not hot, to avoid activating too much gluten, which could make the dough hard to roll out.

2. Resting the Dough:
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out later.

3. Preparing the Filling:
Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Then, add the finely chopped chicken, sprinkle with thyme, salt, and chili if you like it a bit spicy. Let the meat brown slightly, then pour in the water and let it simmer, covering the skillet.

Tip: Add the minced garlic in the last minutes of cooking to preserve its fresh aroma.

4. Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese with the chopped dill. Once the chicken is fully cooked, let it cool slightly, then add it to the bowl with the cream cheese. Mix well to obtain a smooth and creamy filling.

5. Forming the Pies:
Now that the dough has rested sufficiently, dust the work surface with flour and roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Use a knife or a glass to cut out small circles of dough. On each circle, place a tablespoon of the chicken and cheese filling, then fold the dough to form a half-moon. Press the edges well to ensure they seal.

Suggestion: You can use a fork to crimp the edges of the pies, giving them a nice rustic look.

6. Baking the Pies:
Preheat the oven to 150 degrees Celsius. Arrange the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Beat the egg and brush the pies with it for a golden crust. Bake the pies for about 30 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.

7. Preparing the Salsa:
While the pies are baking, you can prepare the salsa. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, sauté the onion until soft, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Let it simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the chopped herbs and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Serving and Variations:
Serve the pies warm alongside the salsa, which adds a delicious contrast of freshness and flavor. You can experiment with different fillings, such as feta cheese with spinach or mushrooms with onion, to customize the recipe to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with pork, beef, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- What other sauces pair well with these pies? Yogurt sauce with mint or a spicy tomato sauce are excellent options.
- How can I store the pies? You can freeze the unbaked pies, and when you want to serve them, you can bake them directly from the freezer, adjusting the baking time accordingly.

Nutritional Benefits:
These pies are rich in protein due to the chicken and also contain a healthy dose of cheese and herbs. Additionally, using olive oil brings healthy fats into the diet.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to take on the challenge of chicken and salsa pies. Enjoy every step of the cooking process and, most importantly, the moment you sit down to eat with your loved ones to savor this delight!