Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs

If you’re searching for an easy-to-make, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion, Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs are just what you need. These tasty puffs are great for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty snack, combining tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese, all encased in a flaky, golden puff pastry. Simple to prepare and sure to impress, these puffs bring comfort food to a whole new level. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible and how you can make it at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Kid-Friendly: The blend of chicken, broccoli, and cheese is a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters.
• Versatile: Enjoy these puffs on their own or pair them with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time, freeze, and bake as needed.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs, gather the following ingredients:

• Puff Pastry Sheets: 1 package, thawed (store-bought for convenience)
• Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• Broccoli Florets: 1 cup, finely chopped (steamed or blanched)
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (or your favorite cheese variety)
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened (adds a rich, creamy texture)
• Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten with 1 tbsp of water (for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
• Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

3. Assemble the Puffs

• Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares or rectangles (about 4×4 inches each).
• Place a generous spoonful of the chicken and broccoli mixture in the center of each pastry square.
• Fold the pastry over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle shape, and press the edges together using a fork to seal.

4. Apply the Egg Wash

• Brush the tops of the puffs with the egg wash for a glossy, golden finish.

5. Bake

• Place the puffs on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Let the puffs cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a main dish or snack.

Tips for Success

• Customizations: Feel free to swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the puffs and freeze them uncooked. When ready to eat, brush with egg wash and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair your puffs with a side of mixed greens, a simple coleslaw, or a tangy dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.

Nutritional Benefits

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs are more than just tasty—they’re nutritious too! Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K and provides a good dose of fiber, while chicken adds lean protein essential for muscle repair and overall health. The cheese not only adds flavor but also provides calcium for strong bones.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting snack, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you might just find yourself whipping up a batch on a whim!

Serving and Storage Tips for Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs

Serving Tips:

• Presentation: Serve the puffs on a platter with a garnish of chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for an elegant touch.
• Dips: Pair with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for an extra burst of flavor.
• Accompaniments: Complement these puffs with a fresh side salad, a light soup, or a crunchy coleslaw to create a well-rounded meal.
• Serving Style: These puffs are perfect for entertaining, so consider serving them as part of an appetizer spread during gatherings or as a main course with a side dish.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them easy to reheat and enjoy later.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled puffs in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place puffs on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the pastry is crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for a crispier result.
• Tip for Freshness: To maintain the flaky texture of the puff pastry, avoid reheating in a microwave, as this can make it soggy.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Puffs fresh or reheated, and share them with friends and family for any occasion!

1. Can I use frozen puff pastry for this recipe? Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe! Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before using it. This will make it easier to work with and help achieve that golden, flaky texture when baked.

2. Can I make these puffs ahead of time and freeze them? Absolutely! You can prepare the puffs and freeze them before baking. Place the assembled puffs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, brush them with egg wash and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

3. What other fillings can I use for these puffs? Feel free to customize the filling to suit your tastes. You can add ingredients like cooked spinach, diced bell peppers, cooked mushrooms, or even some crumbled bacon for a different twist. Swap out the cheddar for another type of cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for more flavor variations.

4. How do I make these puffs extra crispy? To make the puffs extra crispy, ensure that your oven is preheated to the right temperature (400°F or 200°C) and bake them until they are golden brown. Brushing the puffs with an egg wash will help achieve a nice, crispy exterior. If you want an even crunchier finish, let them cool on a wire rack instead of on a baking sheet, so air circulates underneath.

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