Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

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by Vanessaa

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Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

You know those potluck parties where everyone brings the same old dishes? Well, these Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs have become my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests. Perfect for brunch gatherings or light snacks, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a standout choice. The flaky puff pastry filled with savory chicken salad is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it suitable for any occasion.

Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
  • Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you’ll have these puffs ready in no time.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for brunch, parties, or as a light lunch option, these puffs are great for any gathering.
  • Individual Portions: Each puff offers a perfect serving size, making them ideal for sharing without mess.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Their unique taste and appealing presentation make them sure to delight your friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process and ensure amazing results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Rolling pin
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking of the puff pastry for a perfectly golden finish.
  • Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out the puff pastry evenly, which is key to achieving the right texture.
  • Mixing bowl: A good-sized mixing bowl allows you to combine your ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
  • Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the puff pastry easy and precise for perfect shapes.
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Ingredients

For the Puff Pastry

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt

For the Chicken Salad Filling

  • 3 chicken breasts
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup celery (diced finely)
  • 1/2 cup red grapes (cut into quarters)
  • 1 tablespoon onion (finely minced)
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon creole seasoning mix

How to Make Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by boiling or grilling the chicken breasts until fully cooked. Season with salt and black pepper. Once cooked, let them cool and then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Make the Salad Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with diced celery, quartered red grapes, minced onion, mayonnaise, coarse salt, and creole seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are combined evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Puff Pastry

Preheat your oven according to package instructions for puff pastry. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface until it’s slightly thinner. Cut out circles using a round cutter or glass.

Step 4: Assemble the Puffs

Place a tablespoon of chicken salad mixture in the center of each pastry circle. Fold over to create a half-moon shape and seal edges tightly with your fingers or a fork.

Step 5: Bake

Place the assembled puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with melted butter and sprinkle coarse salt over them. Bake according to package instructions or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs warm as an irresistible snack at your next gathering!

How to Serve Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs are not only delicious but also versatile. These delightful bites can be served in various ways to impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Individual Servings

  • Serve each puff on a small plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This adds color and a burst of flavor.

Mini Buffet Style

  • Arrange the puffs on a large platter with small bowls of complimentary dips, such as hummus or yogurt sauce. This encourages guests to mix and match flavors.

Picnic Presentation

  • Pack the chicken salad puffs in a picnic basket along with fresh fruits and drinks. They make for an excellent outdoor meal.

Party Platter

  • Create a party platter by pairing the puffs with assorted cheeses and crackers. This combination is sure to please any crowd.

How to Perfect Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

To achieve the perfect Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs, there are a few key techniques you should keep in mind.

  • Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and promotes that golden puff pastry texture.
  • Use Cold Ingredients: Make sure your puff pastry is cold before baking. This helps achieve that flaky, airy texture that everyone loves.
  • Season Generously: Don’t hold back on salt and spices in your chicken salad mixture. Proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Mind the Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your puffs while they bake. Overcooking can lead to dry pastries, so remove them when they’re golden brown.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

Pairing sides with Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

  1. Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers brightens up the plate while adding freshness.
  2. Vegetable Crudités: An assortment of sliced veggies served with hummus provides a crunchy contrast and is great for snacking.
  3. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers made from seasonal fruits add sweetness and balance out savory flavors beautifully.
  4. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a hearty side that complements the lightness of the puffs.
  5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables is nutritious and adds texture alongside the chicken salad puffs.
  6. Mini Caprese Skewers: Mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a tasty finger food option.
  7. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus tossed in olive oil provides an elegant touch to your meal while keeping it healthy.
  8. Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes: Hollowed-out cherry tomatoes filled with cream cheese or herbed ricotta offer a delightful burst of flavor when enjoyed with puffs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

  • Skipping the seasonings: Not adding enough salt or seasoning can lead to bland puffs. Always taste your filling and adjust as necessary.
  • Overbaking the pastry: Leaving the puff pastry in the oven for too long can cause it to become dry. Keep an eye on it and remove when golden brown.
  • Using warm chicken: Mixing warm chicken with mayonnaise can create a soupy filling. Let the chicken cool completely before combining it with other ingredients.
  • Ignoring the puff pastry thawing time: Not allowing the puff pastry to thaw properly can make it hard to work with. Make sure to leave it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
  • Cutting uneven pieces: If your puff pastry pieces are not uniform, they may bake unevenly. Use a sharp knife for even cuts and consistent baking.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Ensure that they have cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

  • Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals (20-30 seconds) until warm.
  • Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs.

Can I use leftover chicken for Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs?

Yes! Leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken is perfect for this recipe.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier alternative.

How do I make these puffs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free puff pastry available at many grocery stores.

Can I add more vegetables to my Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs?

Absolutely! Feel free to include peppers, cucumbers, or any crunchy veggies you prefer.

Final Thoughts

Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs are not just delicious; they are versatile and easy to customize. You can add different vegetables or swap out the chicken for turkey if you like. These puffs make an excellent choice for gatherings or a simple brunch at home. Try them today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs

Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs


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  • Author: Vanessa
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Healthy Chicken Salad Puffs are the perfect solution for your next gathering, combining flaky puff pastry with a savory chicken salad filling that bursts with flavor. These delightful bites are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to make, making them an ideal choice for brunches, picnics, or as finger foods at parties. With tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes enveloped in golden pastry, they offer a charming presentation that will impress your guests. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and reheated for convenience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 sheet of puff pastry
  • 3 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup finely diced celery
  • 1/2 cup quartered red grapes
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven according to the puff pastry package instructions.
  2. Cook the chicken breasts by boiling or grilling until fully cooked; let cool and shred.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced celery, quartered grapes, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface and cut into circles.
  5. Place a tablespoon of chicken salad in the center of each circle; fold and seal edges.
  6. Bake on a parchment-lined baking sheet until golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 puff (45g)
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 230mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

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