Description
Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry Rolls
Ingredients:
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
1 cup cooked shredded chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined. Roll out the puff pastry and cut into rectangles. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on one side of each rectangle and roll tightly, sealing the edges. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Beat the egg and brush it over the rolls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the cooked shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Ensure the cream cheese is fully integrated for a smooth, cohesive filling.
2. Shape Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll the thawed puff pastry sheet into a roughly 10×12 inch rectangle. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut the sheet into 6 equal smaller rectangles.
3. Assemble Rolls: Place 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture along the longer edge of each pastry rectangle. Carefully roll the pastry over the filling, keeping it tight. Pinch the final seam and ends firmly to seal completely.
4. Bake: Place rolls seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush each generously with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until deeply golden and puffed.
5. Final Touch: Remove from oven and let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. For a party, serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or a honey mustard. As a main course, pair them with a crisp green salad or a creamy tomato soup. They are best enjoyed warm the day they are made, but leftovers reheat well in an air fryer or toaster oven.
How-to Summary
Thaw pastry, mix chicken, cheeses, and seasonings for the filling. Roll out pastry, cut into rectangles, fill, and roll tightly. Seal edges, brush with egg wash, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake at 375°F until golden brown. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken? Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken is an excellent, flavorful shortcut. Just ensure you shred it finely.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the rolls, place them on the baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Brush with egg wash and bake just before serving.
Can I freeze unbaked rolls? Definitely. After assembling, freeze them solid on the baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for cream cheese? Ricotta cheese or a thick garlic-herb spreadable cheese are good alternatives for a slightly different texture.
Why did my pastry not puff? The oven may not have been hot enough, or the pastry was over-handled and warmed too much. Work quickly and keep ingredients cool.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using puff pastry that is still frozen or too warm. It should be thawed but still cold to the touch.
- Overfilling the rolls, which causes them to burst open during baking.
- Not sealing the edges tightly, allowing the filling to leak.
- Skipping the egg wash, which gives the rolls their signature golden, glossy finish.
- Placing rolls too close together on the baking sheet, preventing proper air circulation and puffing.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken Puff Pastry Rolls are the ultimate combination of simplicity and impressive results. With a creamy, savory filling wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and adapt it to your taste. Perfect for any occasion, they deliver restaurant-quality appeal with minimal kitchen effort.