02 Jun 2025
Cook time 90 min
Prep time 55 min
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
2 leeks
2 tsp brown sugar
2 chicken breasts
2 yolks
1/3 cup light sour cream
1/2 cup cheddar cheese
2 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
2/3 cup butter
1 tbsp water
Chicken, caramelised leek and cheddar tart is a delightful and savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of leeks, cheddar cheese, and tender chicken in a crisp tart crust. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy family meal, this tart is both comforting and sophisticated.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2/3 cup of chilled and cubed butter.
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add 1 tbsp of water and mix just until the dough comes together. If needed, add additional water a teaspoon at a time.
2. Chill the Dough:
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Roll and Fit the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess.
4. Blind Bake:
- Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
5. Caramelize the Leeks:
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook, stirring frequently, until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 2 tsp of brown sugar and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 10-15 minutes until the leeks are caramelized and golden brown.
6. Prepare the Chicken:
- While the leeks are caramelizing, cook and shred the chicken breasts if they are not already cooked.
7. Mix the Filling:
- In a bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 1/3 cup of light sour cream until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, caramelized leeks, and 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese until well combined.
8. Assemble the Tart:
- Pour the filling mixture into the pre-baked tart crust, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake:
- Place the filled tart into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the tart to cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Prepare the crust first.: Mix the flour and butter until it resembles crumbs, add water to bring the dough together, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
- Caramelise the leeks slowly.: Cook the leeks with olive oil and brown sugar on low heat until they are golden and tender, which enhances their natural sweetness.
- Cook the chicken thoroughly.: Ensure the chicken breasts are fully cooked before adding them to the tart. You can poach, grill, or bake them according to your preference.
- Use egg yolks for creaminess.: Whisk the yolks with the light sour cream and cheddar to create a custard-like filling that will set beautifully when baked.
- Blind bake the crust.: Bake the tart crust blind (without filling) for around 10-15 minutes to prevent it from becoming soggy when the filling is added.
- Allow the tart to rest.: Let the tart sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set properly before slicing and serving.
This Chicken, caramelised leek, and cheddar tart is not only delicious but also a versatile dish that can be served for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The combination of caramelised leeks, creamy cheddar, and succulent chicken makes it a hit with everyone. Enjoy it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.