Stuffed chicken thighs in puff pastry

Stuffed chicken thighs in puff pastry – A delicacy that will impress!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4

Stuffed chicken thighs in puff pastry are not only a delicious appetizer but also a recipe that combines tradition with innovation, bringing an explosion of flavors and textures to your table. This recipe is perfect for special occasions as well as for a family dinner. Here’s how you can prepare them step by step, with useful tips and suggestions.

Ingredients

- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (approximately 250 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 3 tablespoons of grated cheese
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- Salt (to taste)
- Ground pepper (to taste)
- Oregano (to preference)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken thighs

1. Tenderize the thighs: Use a meat mallet to gently pound each chicken thigh. This will help the meat become more tender and absorb the flavors better.

2. Boil the thighs: Place the thighs in a large pot, add enough water to cover them, a little salt, and bring to a boil. Let them boil for about 10 minutes. During this time, skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a ladle.

3. Remove the meat: Once the thighs are boiled, remove them with a spatula to a plate and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

4. Mix the ingredients: In a bowl, combine salt, pepper, oregano, grated cheese, and diced bell pepper. Add the olive oil and mix well to create a smooth paste.

5. Fill the thighs: Using a spoon, take some of the prepared mixture and spread it inside each chicken thigh. Roll each thigh to form a log.

Step 3: Wrapping in puff pastry

6. Prepare the puff pastry: Cut the puff pastry sheet into squares of about 5 cm. This will wrap around the chicken logs, giving them a crispy, golden crust.

7. Wrap the logs: Place each filled log in the center of a puff pastry square. Wrap it well, ensuring that the pastry completely encloses the meat.

8. Cook the logs: Brush each log with beaten egg, then roll it in sesame seeds for added crunch.

Step 4: Baking

9. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C.

10. Place on tray: Arrange the logs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between them for even baking.

11. Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serving

12. Cool and serve: Remove the logs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. You can serve them warm, straight from the oven, or let them cool completely and serve them cold as a snack.

Serving suggestions

These stuffed chicken thighs in puff pastry are excellent with a fresh salad or a serving of French fries. You can also pair them with a garlic and dill yogurt sauce to enhance the flavors.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Additionally, cheese adds calcium, while red bell pepper is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. This recipe is also versatile, allowing for additional vegetables or preferred spices.

Vegetarian option

If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken thighs with large mushrooms stuffed with a mixture of feta cheese, spinach, and spices. These will provide a unique taste and pleasant texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! You can use turkey or even pork, depending on your preferences.

2. What other spices can I add?
You can experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or even fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.

3. How can I store the logs?
These logs store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

4. What is the calorie count?
A serving of stuffed chicken thighs in puff pastry contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and type of pastry used.

Personal note

This recipe for stuffed chicken thighs in puff pastry reminds me of the moments spent with family, gathering around the table to enjoy lovingly prepared dishes. I hope it brings you joy and that you share it with your loved ones.

Enjoy this delicacy and don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and flavors! Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create something special. Bon appétit!