Chicken thighs in puff pastry

Chicken thighs in puff pastry - a delicious festive appetizer

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 6

In a world full of elaborate recipes, chicken thighs in puff pastry stand out for their simplicity and elegance. This appetizer not only looks spectacular but also combines delicious flavors that will delight your guests' taste buds. It is the perfect choice for any party, anniversary, or festive meal. Let's discover together how we can make this tasty dish!

A brief history of the recipe

Puff pastry, with origins in European culinary art, has been used for centuries to create fine dishes, often associated with special occasions. Combining chicken thighs with this flaky dough makes each bite an explosion of textures and flavors. This recipe has evolved over time, becoming a favorite in many cultures due to its versatility.

Necessary ingredients

- 6 boneless chicken thighs
- 200 g chicken breast
- 100 g mushrooms (canned or fresh)
- 1 green onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g grated cheese
- 2 eggs
- 20 g sesame seeds
- Salt, pepper, thyme (to taste)
- 1 package of puff pastry (about 500 g)

Preparing the ingredients

1. Wash and dry the chicken thighs: Start by washing the chicken thighs under cold running water. Dry them well with paper towels to remove excess water, which will help you achieve a crispier dish.

2. Prepare the filling: Use a food processor or meat grinder to chop the chicken breast. Add the mushrooms (if canned, drain them well), finely chopped green onion, and red bell pepper. Mix all the ingredients until you have a homogeneous mixture. Add the grated cheese, one egg, salt, pepper, and thyme, adjusting the seasonings to taste. Make sure the filling is not too wet to avoid soggy pastry.

Filling and preparing the thighs

1. Fill the thighs: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each chicken thigh with the mixture obtained. Ensure that the filling is evenly distributed, but do not overfill, as the meat will cook and the filling will expand.

2. Wrap the thighs: Place a piece of puff pastry on a clean surface and gently roll it out with a rolling pin. Cut strips about 1 cm wide. Wrap each thigh with the strips of pastry, ensuring they are well covered. You can use a little beaten egg to seal the edges of the pastry.

3. Apply the beaten egg and sesame: Place the thighs on a baking tray, then lightly brush them with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crispy appearance and added flavor.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (grill). This step is essential to achieve a perfectly crispy crust.

2. Bake the thighs: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the thighs bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry turns golden and crispy. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 20 minutes to allow steam to accumulate, helping with even baking.

Serving

Once the thighs are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut them into rounds for an elegant presentation and serve them warm. These chicken thighs in puff pastry are excellent alongside a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can experiment with various fillings, adding spinach, olives, or even feta cheese for a distinctive touch. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs.
- Drinks: This appetizer pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a light beer. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a citrus mint cocktail will add a refreshing note.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of chicken thighs in puff pastry (about 2 thighs) contains approximately 350-400 calories, providing a good source of protein and healthy fats. Additionally, mushrooms and red bell pepper add extra vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use turkey or even beef, but the baking time may vary.
2. How do I store the chicken thighs in puff pastry? They can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore the crispy texture.
3. Can they be frozen? Yes, the stuffed chicken thighs can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

Happy cooking and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Chicken thighs in puff pastry are not only a delicious appetizer but also a wonderful way to bring a smile to your loved ones' faces.