Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

Hey there, my foodie friend! Get ready to wrap your taste buds in the cozy, savory goodness of these Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties! Imagine flaky, buttery pastry pockets stuffed with tender chicken, sweet jammy courgettes (that’s zucchini to us!), and a hint of herbs, baked until golden and crisp. These handheld delights are like a warm hug from a British pub, perfect for a hearty lunch, a picnic, or a cozy dinner with a side salad. Trust me, this recipe is a total game-changer, and you’ll be sneaking one straight from the oven!

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties
These pasties aren’t just a meal—they’re a portable flavor party. Whether you’re packing them for a lunch on the go, serving them at a family gathering, or just craving something comforting, they’ve got you covered. Here’s why they’re a must-make:

• Versatile: Perfect for lunches, picnics, or a cozy dinner. They’re great hot from the oven or at room temperature for on-the-go eating.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients like chicken, zucchini, and pantry staples, so you can make something special without spending a fortune.
• Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that come together with minimal fuss, even if you’re new to pastry-making.
• Customizable: Swap the veggies, adjust the herbs, or add a spicy kick to make these pasties your own.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The flaky pastry and savory filling are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a family favorite.

Ingredients in Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

These pasties are packed with simple ingredients that create a savory, jammy filling wrapped in flaky pastry. Here’s what makes them so special:

Chicken

Tender, cooked chicken (breast or thigh) forms the hearty base, soaking up the flavors of the jammy courgettes and herbs.

Courgettes (Zucchini)

Sautéed until soft and caramelized, courgettes turn sweet and jammy, adding a melt-in-your-mouth texture to the filling.

Onion

Finely chopped onion adds a savory, slightly sweet depth that complements the chicken and courgettes.

Garlic

Minced garlic brings a warm, aromatic kick that ties the filling together.

Puff Pastry

Store-bought or homemade, puff pastry creates that golden, flaky crust that makes pasties so irresistible.

Thyme

Fresh or dried thyme adds an earthy, herbaceous note that screams cozy comfort food.

Olive Oil

Used for sautéing, olive oil helps caramelize the courgettes and onions for maximum flavor.

Egg

Beaten egg creates a glossy, golden finish when brushed on the pastry before baking.

Salt and Pepper

These essentials enhance all the flavors, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s create these flaky, savory pasties:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Cook the Courgettes

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add diced courgettes and thyme, cooking for 10-12 minutes until the courgettes are soft and jammy, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Add the Chicken

Shred or dice cooked chicken and stir it into the courgette mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors. Let the filling cool slightly to avoid soggy pastry.

Prepare the Pastry

Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to ⅛-inch thickness. Cut into 5-inch circles (use a bowl or cutter). You’ll need about 6-8 circles, depending on size.

Assemble the Pasties

Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken-courgette filling onto one half of each pastry circle, leaving a ½-inch border. Fold the pastry over to form a half-moon and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Brush with Egg Wash

Beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the pasties for a glossy, golden finish. Cut a small slit on top of each to let steam escape.

Bake to Perfection

Place the pasties on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and puffed up.

Finishing Touches

Let the pasties cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet to set the pastry. They’re best served warm but are delicious at room temperature too.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot or warm with a side salad or dipping sauce. These pasties are perfect for any occasion!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6 pasties
Calories per serving: 380 kcal

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties

These pasties are a meal on their own, but here are some ways to make them even more special:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad or a tomato-cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich pastry.
• Crusty Bread: No extra bread needed—these pasties are the star! But a slice of artisan bread can soak up any dipping sauce.
• Creamy Accompaniments: Serve with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a mustard dipping sauce for extra flavor.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted carrots or steamed green beans add color and balance to the plate.
• As a Standalone: These pasties shine solo. Pack them for a picnic or lunchbox for a hearty, portable meal.

Presentation matters! Arrange the pasties on a rustic wooden board or platter with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for a cozy, inviting look.

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make these pasties even better:

• Prep Ahead: Make the filling a day in advance and refrigerate. Assemble and bake fresh for the best flaky texture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the filling for a subtle kick.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free puff pastry for a GF version or swap chicken for mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Double the Batch: Double the recipe for a crowd or meal prep. Freeze unbaked pasties for up to 2 months and bake from frozen, adding 5 minutes.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
A1: Yes! Try shredded turkey, pork, or even crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Q2: Can I make these pasties ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prep the filling and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake fresh for the best texture.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to keep the pastry crisp.

Q4: Can I freeze these pasties?
A4: Yes! Freeze unbaked pasties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat these?
A5: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore the flaky crust. Microwaving can make them soggy, so avoid it.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Double the filling and pastry, and bake in batches if needed. Perfect for parties or meal prep.

Q7: Can I use homemade pastry instead of puff pastry?
A7: Yes! A shortcrust pastry works well, but it’ll be less flaky. Roll it thin to keep the texture light.

Q8: Are these pasties kid-friendly?
A8: Totally! The mild, savory filling is great for kids. Reduce the garlic or thyme if they prefer milder flavors.

Q9: Can I use zucchini instead of courgettes?
A9: Yes, courgettes and zucchini are the same! Use whichever you have—they’ll both turn jammy and delicious.

Q10: Why is my pastry soggy?
A10: Ensure the filling is cooled before assembling to prevent excess moisture. Also, don’t skip the steam slit to avoid trapped steam.

Conclusion

These Chicken and Jammy Courgette Pasties are your ticket to a cozy, flavorful meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With their flaky puff pastry, tender chicken, and sweet, jammy courgettes, every bite is a perfect blend of comfort and deliciousness. Whether you’re packing them for a picnic, serving them with a salad for dinner, or gifting them to a friend, these pasties are sure to bring joy to any table. So preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor a batch of pure, handheld bliss!

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