Are you looking for a quick and easy-to-make dish that your family will love? Look no further than the chicken pockets recipe. These savory, handheld bites are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these tasty treats step-by-step.
Ingredients
To make the chicken pockets, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the chicken pockets:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
Step 3: Season the Chicken Mixture
Add the oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until the chicken and vegetables are coated in the spices. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Pockets
On a lightly floured surface, unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Place the triangles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and parsley. Mix well until smooth.
Place a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto the center of each crescent roll triangle. Top with a spoonful of the chicken mixture.
Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
Step 5: Bake the Pockets
Bake the chicken pockets for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken pockets from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these delicious bites on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to make your chicken pockets turn out perfectly:
- Make sure to seal the edges of the pockets well to prevent the filling from leaking out.
- If you want to make these pockets ahead of time, you can assemble them and then freeze them until you’re ready to bake them.
- You can customize the filling to your liking by adding different vegetables or spices.
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your chicken from scratch.
- You can substitute any veggies that you have on hand for the ones listed in the recipe. Just make sure to dice them into small, bite-sized pieces.
- If you want to make your chicken pockets extra crispy, you can brush them with a little bit of olive oil before baking them.
- You can serve your chicken pockets with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn how to make delicious chicken pockets with these frequently asked questions and answers. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned chef, these tips and tricks will help you create a tasty meal your whole family will love.
What ingredients do I need to make chicken pockets?
To make chicken pockets, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, puff pastry sheets, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. You may also want to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
Before starting the recipe, make sure you have all of your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This will make the cooking process much smoother and ensure that your chicken pockets turn out perfectly.
How do I prepare the chicken for the pockets?
The first step in preparing the chicken for the pockets is to cut the chicken breasts into small pieces. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, or any other desired seasonings. Cook the chicken in a skillet until it is no longer pink and is fully cooked.
After the chicken is cooked, mix it with cream cheese and any additional vegetables or seasonings. This will create a creamy and flavorful filling for the chicken pockets that will be sure to impress your family and friends!
How do I assemble the chicken pockets?
To assemble the chicken pockets, roll out the puff pastry sheets and cut them into squares. Spoon the chicken filling onto the center of each square, making sure to leave enough space around the edges to seal the pockets. Fold the pastry over the filling and press the edges together with a fork to seal the pockets shut.
Before baking, brush the tops of the pockets with egg wash to give them a golden brown color. Bake in the oven until the pockets are puffed and golden brown, and the chicken filling is hot and bubbly.
Can I make chicken pockets ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken pockets ahead of time and freeze them for later. After assembling the pockets, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until they are solid. Once frozen, transfer the pockets to a resealable plastic bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To cook the frozen pockets, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the pockets for 25-30 minutes, or until they are heated through and golden brown.
What can I serve with chicken pockets?
Chicken pockets are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Some popular options include a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice or quinoa. You can also serve the pockets as an appetizer or snack by cutting them into smaller pieces and serving with a dipping sauce.
For a complete meal, try pairing the chicken pockets with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, and finish off with a sweet dessert like fruit salad or chocolate cake.
Conclusion
Making chicken pockets is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a quick meal. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, anyone can whip up a batch of these tasty treats in no time. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a snack on the go, chicken pockets are an excellent choice. They’re easy to customize with your favorite flavors and ingredients, and they’re a great way to use up leftovers. So next time you’re in the mood for a satisfying and delicious meal, why not give chicken pockets a try? With their crispy crust and juicy filling, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
