Chicken and cheese pie

Chicken and Cheese Tart – a savory delicacy, perfect for lunch or dinner, that brings together rich flavors and varied textures. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, making it ideal for moments when you want to impress family or friends. With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 30-35 minutes, this tart proves to be an excellent choice for any occasion.

Necessary ingredients (for 6 servings):
- 300-350 g boiled chicken breast (recommended to be boiled in advance to save time during preparation)
- 4 large eggs
- 250 g cottage cheese (opt for a quality cheese that is not too wet)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (its aroma will add a special touch)
- 6 fresh mushrooms (Champignon mushrooms are ideal)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper (optional, but recommended for a touch of color and sweetness)
- 1 package of puff pastry (240 g, make sure it is of good quality)
- 200 g grated cheese (for an intense flavor, I recommend smoked cheese)

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the chicken breast:
In a pot, bring water to a boil along with a vegetable broth cube. Once the water is boiling, add the chicken breast and let it boil for 15-20 minutes until tender and well cooked. After boiling, remove it from the water and let it cool. You can cook the chicken breast a day in advance to save time.

2. Preparing the mushrooms:
Wash the mushrooms and slice them julienne. In a pan, add the oil and sauté the mushrooms over medium heat. It is important to leave the mushrooms on the heat until all the liquid they release evaporates, to avoid a too moist composition in the tart. After cooking, let them cool.

3. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, finely chopped dill, cracked eggs, diced bell pepper, and 150 g of grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients well.

4. Adding the chicken:
Once the chicken breast has cooled, cut it into small cubes and add it to the bowl with the other ingredients, along with the cooled mushrooms. Carefully mix everything, ensuring that each ingredient is well distributed.

5. Preparing the tart:
In a 15 x 25 cm baking dish, place the puff pastry sheet, making sure to cover the edges of the dish as well. Pour the chicken and cheese mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Use the remaining puff pastry to create a lattice on top, which is a nice way to decorate and make the tart look more appetizing. Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese on top.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the tart for 30-35 minutes or until the puff pastry becomes golden and crispy, and the filling is well cooked.

7. Serving:
Once the tart is baked, let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it. You can serve it warm, alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt garlic sauce. It is just as delicious cold, making it perfect for picnics or snacks.

Useful tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken breast with tofu or tempeh.
- Make sure the puff pastry is well thawed before use to avoid cracking during baking.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken and cheese tart is rich in protein due to the chicken and eggs, while the cottage cheese provides essential calcium for bones. The dill adds antioxidants, and the mushrooms contribute fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it and cook it well before use.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or even olives, depending on your preferences.

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

4. Is it possible to freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Once thawed, bake it according to the instructions.

The chicken and cheese tart is a versatile recipe that combines simple ingredients to create a tasty and filling dish. Whether you serve it at a family meal or bring it to a party, it is sure to be a hit. I hope you enjoy every bite and experiment with different variations. Bon appétit!