Description
1 lb chicken breast, boneless and skinless
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
Directions:
Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create thin fillets. Season both sides with salt, pepper,
garlic powder, and paprika.
Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, shredded mozzarella, and chopped green onions. Mix well.
Stuff the Chicken: Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each chicken fillet. Carefully fold the chicken around the filling to form a pocket
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice chicken breasts horizontally to create thin, wide fillets. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Make the Filling: In a bowl, thoroughly combine softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded mozzarella, and chopped green onions until a uniform mixture forms.
3. Stuff and Seal: Place a generous spoonful of filling in the center of each fillet. Fold the chicken around the filling, pinching the edges to seal as best as possible.
4. Wrap in Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll the thawed puff pastry sheet slightly. Cut it into pieces large enough to fully wrap each stuffed chicken breast. Brush edges with water, wrap each breast, and press seams to seal.
5. Bake: Place wrapped bundles seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush tops with olive oil or an egg wash. Bake for 25-30 minutes until pastry is golden brown and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Serving Suggestions
Serve these creamy ranch chicken bundles hot from the oven. They pair beautifully with a light, crisp green salad to balance the richness, or with roasted asparagus or garlic green beans. For a heartier meal, add a side of mashed potatoes or wild rice pilaf. A dollop of extra ranch dressing or a drizzle of hot honey on the side makes for a delicious finishing touch.
How-to Summary
Thinly slice and season chicken breasts. Mix cream cheese, ranch seasoning, mozzarella, and green onions for the filling. Stuff and fold the chicken around the filling. Wrap each stuffed breast completely in a piece of puff pastry. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well. They may require a slightly shorter cooking time, so check for doneness at 20 minutes.
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning? You can use a homemade blend of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Start with 2 teaspoons of the mixed herbs.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the wrapped bundles, place them on a baking sheet, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 3-5 extra minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 10-15 minutes to restore crispness. Microwaving will make the pastry soggy.
My filling is leaking out. How can I prevent this? Ensure you are not overfilling the chicken, and make sure the puff pastry seams are tightly sealed and placed seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which will not mix smoothly. Ensure it is fully softened.
- Overfilling the chicken, which causes leaks during baking and makes sealing difficult.
- Not properly sealing the puff pastry seams, leading to filling bursting out.
- Undercooking the chicken. Always use a meat thermometer to verify an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Placing bundles on an unlined baking sheet, which can cause sticking and a messy cleanup.
Conclusion
These Creamy Ranch Chicken Pastry Bundles are an impressive yet straightforward meal that combines tender chicken, a flavorful cheese filling, and flaky pastry. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a delicious, family-friendly dinner that feels special. Perfect for both weeknights and entertaining, this versatile recipe is sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation.
