29 May 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 50 min
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp chili powder
1/3 cup cream cheese
2.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 egg
1 tbsp vodka
1/2 cup water
1 tomato
1 red pepper
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tsp sugar
Chicken and cream cheese pastels are delicious, savory pastries with a rich, creamy filling encased in a crisp, flaky dough. Perfect for an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, these pastels combine tender chicken, aromatic spices, and smooth cream cheese for a delectable treat that will delight your taste buds.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
- Make a well in the center of the flour and add the egg, vodka, and water.
- Mix well until the ingredients come together to form a dough.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Season with dried oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- In the same skillet, add the finely chopped tomato and red pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the shredded chicken back to the skillet.
- Stir in the cream cheese until it melts and coats the chicken and vegetables.
- Add the vinegar and sugar to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Remove the skillet from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Pastels:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut the dough into 4-5 inch circles using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Place about 1-2 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
- Place the assembled pastels on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake:
- Beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the pastels for a shiny, golden finish.
- Bake the pastels in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Allow the pastels to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious Chicken and Cream Cheese Pastels warm, either as a snack or a main dish!
Tips:
- Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before combining it with the other filling ingredients to ensure it's safe to eat.
- Use a food processor to make the dough for a smoother, more consistent texture.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out; this makes it easier to handle and less likely to tear.
- When sealing the pastels, use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside during baking.
- Brush the pastries with a beaten egg before baking for a shiny, golden finish.
- Experiment with adding different spices or herbs to the filling according to your taste preferences.
After baking these delicious chicken and cream cheese pastels, you'll have a savory, golden-brown pastry that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're serving them as appetizers or snacks, or enjoying them as a main dish, their creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust are sure to impress. Happy cooking!