Puff Pastry Pesto Chicken Bites

Jessica

🍽️✨ The taste ambassador

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These little bites of heaven are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser in my house. Every time I make them, they disappear in minutes, leaving everyone wanting more. The flaky, buttery puff pastry combined with the savory pesto and tender chicken is just an irresistible combination. They are perfect as an appetizer for parties, a fun snack, or even a light lunch. Honestly, they are so easy to make and always impress. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both delicious and simple, look no further – these Puff Pastry Pesto Chicken Bites are it!

Ingredients

Puff Pastry Sheets: (1 box, typically 14.1 oz) – Provides the light, flaky, and buttery base for our bites. Ensure it’s thawed properly according to package instructions for easy handling.
Cooked Chicken Breast: (2 cups, shredded or diced) – The protein powerhouse, cooked chicken adds substance and savory flavor. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or bake chicken breasts specifically for this recipe.
Pesto: (1/2 cup) – The star flavor! Pesto brings a vibrant, herbaceous, and garlicky punch to the bites. Use your favorite store-bought pesto or homemade for an extra touch of freshness. Basil pesto is classic, but sun-dried tomato or spinach pesto can also be delicious variations.
Cream Cheese: (4 oz, softened) – Adds creaminess and richness to the filling, helping to bind the ingredients together and create a luscious texture. Softened cream cheese blends smoothly and ensures even distribution.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: (1 cup) – Offers a mild, melty, and stretchy cheese component that complements the pesto and chicken beautifully. You can also use other cheeses like Italian blend, provolone, or Monterey Jack.
Egg: (1 large) – Used for an egg wash to give the puff pastry a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen as it bakes.
Everything Bagel Seasoning: (optional, for garnish) – Adds a delightful savory crunch and visual appeal. Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion in the seasoning enhance the overall flavor profile.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking puff pastry to achieve a golden-brown, flaky texture without burning. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Parchment paper is crucial as it prevents the puff pastry bites from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal and cleanup. It also helps distribute heat evenly, promoting even baking. Set the prepared baking sheet aside.
Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, pesto, and softened cream cheese. Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened; you can leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it in short intervals until it’s easy to blend. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the chicken and pesto mixture. This creates a flavorful and creamy filling that will be the heart of your puff pastry bites.
Assemble the Puff Pastry Bites: Gently unfold one sheet of thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Lightly flouring the surface prevents the puff pastry from sticking and makes it easier to handle. Using a rolling pin, lightly roll out the puff pastry sheet to slightly enlarge it and even out any creases. This step ensures a more uniform thickness and helps create more bites from each sheet. Cut the puff pastry sheet into even squares. The size of the squares can vary depending on your preference; approximately 2-inch squares work well for appetizer-sized bites. You can use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for clean cuts.
Fill the Puff Pastry Squares: Place a spoonful of the chicken and pesto filling onto the center of each puff pastry square. Be careful not to overfill the squares, as this can make them difficult to seal and may cause the filling to leak out during baking. A teaspoon or a small tablespoon of filling per square is usually sufficient. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling on each square. The mozzarella cheese will melt beautifully and add a cheesy, gooey element to the bites.
Seal and Shape the Bites: Fold each puff pastry square over to form a triangle or a rectangle, enclosing the filling. Press the edges firmly to seal them. You can use a fork to crimp the edges, which not only seals them securely but also adds a decorative touch. Ensure the edges are properly sealed to prevent the filling from escaping during baking and to create well-defined bites. For a decorative look, you can brush the tops of the bites with egg wash. To make the egg wash, whisk one egg with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl. Brushing with egg wash gives the puff pastry a glossy, golden-brown finish when baked.
Bake the Puff Pastry Bites: Arrange the assembled puff pastry bites on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bite to allow for even baking and air circulation. If desired, sprinkle the tops of the egg-washed bites with everything bagel seasoning for added flavor and texture. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and puffed up. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of the bites, so keep an eye on them and adjust the baking time as needed.
Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the puff pastry pesto chicken bites from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving platter. Cooling them slightly makes them easier to handle and allows the filling to set a bit. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. These bites are delicious served immediately and are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or light meals.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, assuming recipe makes 24 bites, serving size: 2 bites)

Calories: Approximately 150 kcal
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. These values are based on using standard ingredients and making 24 bites from the recipe.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes thawing puff pastry, preparing filling, and assembling bites)
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (baking time in the oven)
Total Time: 35-40 minutes (from start to finish, ready to serve)

This recipe is relatively quick and easy, perfect for when you need a delicious appetizer or snack in under an hour. The use of pre-made puff pastry significantly cuts down on preparation time.

How to Serve Puff Pastry Pesto Chicken Bites

These versatile bites can be served in numerous ways, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some ideas:

As Appetizers at Parties:
- Elegant Platter: Arrange the warm bites on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh basil leaves or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
- Mini Skewers: For a fun, handheld option, thread a bite onto a small skewer with a cherry tomato or a small mozzarella ball.
- Buffet Style: Place them on a buffet table as part of a larger spread, alongside other appetizers like dips, cheeses, and crackers.
For Casual Snacks or Game Day:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or extra pesto for dipping.
- Snack Board: Create a casual snack board with the bites, along with veggies, chips, and other finger foods.
- Warm and Ready: Keep them warm in a low oven or warming tray if serving over a longer period, ensuring they are always ready to grab and enjoy.
As a Light Meal or Lunch:
- Side Salad: Pair a few bites with a fresh side salad, such as a simple green salad with vinaigrette or a Caprese salad, for a light and satisfying lunch or light dinner.
- Soup Pairing: Serve alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a light vegetable soup for a comforting and balanced meal.
- Brunch Addition: Include them as part of a brunch spread, alongside quiches, frittatas, and fresh fruit.
Temperature and Presentation:
- Serve Warm: These bites are best served warm, right out of the oven or slightly cooled, when the puff pastry is at its flakiest and the filling is warm and gooey.
- Garnishes: Enhance presentation with garnishes like fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- Serving Dishes: Use attractive serving dishes and platters to elevate the presentation and make them even more appealing.

Additional Tips for Perfect Puff Pastry Pesto Chicken Bites

Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure you leave enough space between the puff pastry bites on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven baking and potentially soggy bottoms. Bake in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Thaw Puff Pastry Properly: Thawing puff pastry correctly is crucial for its texture. Follow the package instructions for thawing. Typically, this involves thawing in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30-40 minutes. Do not microwave puff pastry to thaw it, as this can make it soggy and difficult to work with.
Use Quality Pesto: The flavor of pesto is central to this recipe, so using high-quality pesto will make a significant difference. You can use store-bought pesto, but for the best flavor, consider making your own fresh basil pesto. Homemade pesto offers a brighter, fresher taste.
Customize the Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Provolone, Monterey Jack, Italian blend, or even a sharp cheddar can add different flavor profiles. For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese along with mozzarella.
Add Extra Flavor Boosts to the Filling: Enhance the chicken pesto filling with additional ingredients. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, some finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness and tang, or a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder for extra savory notes.
Make Ahead Preparation: You can prepare the chicken pesto filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also assemble the puff pastry bites (filled and sealed) ahead of time and store them, unbaked, in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours. Bake them just before serving for the best results.
Reheating Instructions: If you have leftover puff pastry pesto chicken bites, you can reheat them to restore their crispness. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the bites for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the puff pastry is crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the puff pastry soggy.
Vegetarian Variation: To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of cheese or add other vegetables to the filling. Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would pair well with pesto and cheese in puff pastry bites. You can also add white beans or chickpeas for protein.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Puff Pastry Pesto Chicken Bites

Q1: Can I use frozen pesto for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen pesto. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before using it in the filling. Thawing it in the refrigerator overnight is a good method. Ensure it’s well incorporated into the chicken and cream cheese mixture for the best flavor distribution.

Q2: Can I make these puff pastry bites ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Yes, you can freeze unbaked puff pastry pesto chicken bites. Assemble them completely, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Q3: How should I store leftover puff pastry pesto chicken bites?
A: Store leftover baked puff pastry pesto chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispness when ready to serve again.

Q4: Can I use a different type of puff pastry?
A: While standard puff pastry sheets are recommended for this recipe due to their consistent rise and flakiness, you could experiment with other types of pastry like rough puff pastry or even phyllo dough (though phyllo will result in a different texture). However, for the best results and ease of use, regular puff pastry sheets are ideal.

Q5: What if I don’t have cream cheese? Can I substitute it with something else?
A: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use softened goat cheese for a tangier flavor. These substitutes will provide a similar binding and creamy element to the filling.

Q6: How do I prevent the bottom of the puff pastry from getting soggy?
A: To prevent soggy bottoms, ensure you are baking on parchment paper, which helps lift the bites slightly and allows for better air circulation. Also, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can trap moisture and lead to sogginess.

Q7: What other fillings can I use in puff pastry bites besides pesto and chicken?
A: The possibilities are endless! You can use spinach and feta, mushroom and Gruyere, ham and Swiss, or even sweet fillings like apple and cinnamon or Nutella and banana. Puff pastry is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors.

Q8: Can I make these bites larger or smaller?
A: Yes, you can adjust the size of the puff pastry squares to make larger or smaller bites. For mini bites, cut the puff pastry into smaller squares. For larger, more substantial bites, cut larger squares or even rectangles. Adjust the filling amount and baking time accordingly – smaller bites will bake faster, and larger bites may need a bit more time.

This detailed guide should equip anyone to make perfect and delicious Puff Pastry Pesto Chicken Bites! Enjoy!