Are you looking for a delightful and impressive dish? Look no further! This chicken and cheese jalousie recipe is your answer. It combines flaky puff pastry, savory chicken, and melted cheese into an elegant and delicious treat. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to creating the perfect jalousie, ensuring success even for novice bakers. So, let’s get started and bring this culinary masterpiece to your table!
What is Chicken and Cheese Jalousie?
A jalousie, also known as a lattice tart, is a pastry with a filling peeking through a decorative lattice crust. In this chicken and cheese jalousie recipe, the classic French pastry meets a savory filling. The result is a stunning dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flaky pastry makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, it’s surprisingly simple to make, especially with store-bought puff pastry. Therefore, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Impressive Presentation: The lattice design looks elegant.
- Delicious Flavors: Chicken and cheese are a winning combination.
- Easy to Make: Store-bought puff pastry simplifies the process.
- Versatile: Adapt the filling to your liking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Undoubtedly, this chicken and cheese jalousie recipe will become a new favorite. Its simplicity and delightful taste will make it a go-to for any occasion. So, prepare to wow your family and friends!
Key Ingredients for Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
The quality of ingredients is paramount for a successful chicken and cheese jalousie recipe. Choose fresh, flavorful components to elevate your dish.
- Puff Pastry: 2 sheets (14.1 oz each), thawed
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, cooked and shredded
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Monterey Jack Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup, chopped
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp
- Dried Thyme: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 tsp, or to taste
- Egg: 1, beaten (for egg wash)
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: For sprinkling (optional)
Each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall flavor and texture of the jalousie. Therefore, ensure you have everything ready before you start.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Feel free to customize this chicken and cheese jalousie recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Cheese: Use Gruyere, Swiss, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Chicken: Substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices like rosemary or smoked paprika.
Additionally, consider using a homemade puff pastry for a truly special treat. However, store-bought puff pastry works just fine and saves time. Ultimately, the goal is to create a jalousie that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
Follow these detailed instructions to create a perfect chicken and cheese jalousie recipe. Each step is designed to ensure a delicious and visually appealing result.
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thaw Puff Pastry: Ensure the puff pastry is thawed but still cold.
Making the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Assembling the Jalousie
- Roll Out Puff Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a 12×12 inch square.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread Filling: Spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Prepare Top Layer: Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry into a 12×12 inch square.
- Create Lattice: Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips.
- Arrange Lattice: Carefully arrange the strips over the filling in a lattice pattern.
- Seal Edges: Press the edges of the lattice strips onto the bottom layer of pastry to seal.
- Trim Excess: Trim any excess pastry from the edges.
- Crimp Edges: Crimp the edges with a fork to create a decorative border.
Baking the Jalousie
- Egg Wash: Brush the entire surface of the jalousie with the beaten egg.
- Sprinkle Seasoning: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool Slightly: Let the jalousie cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Following these steps will result in a beautifully baked chicken and cheese jalousie. Consequently, you’ll have a dish that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
To ensure your chicken and cheese jalousie recipe turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
- Keep Puff Pastry Cold: Cold puff pastry is easier to work with and will result in a flakier crust.
- Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the jalousie can cause it to be soggy.
- Seal Edges Well: Properly sealing the edges prevents the filling from leaking out.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife or pizza cutter will make clean cuts for the lattice strips.
- Monitor Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Keep a close eye on the jalousie to prevent burning.
These tips will assist you in creating a flawless chicken and cheese jalousie. Moreover, they’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve the best possible results.
Serving Suggestions
The chicken and cheese jalousie recipe is versatile and pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or a Caesar salad.
- Soup: Pair with a creamy tomato soup or a hearty vegetable soup.
- Vegetables: Accompany with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or carrots.
- Fruit: Offer a side of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
For extra flavor, consider serving the jalousie with a light vinaigrette or a creamy dipping sauce. These additions will enhance the dish while keeping the meal well-balanced and satisfying.
If you love cheesy and comforting chicken dishes, you might also enjoy this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole, a creamy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Storage Instructions
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality of your chicken and cheese jalousie recipe. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover jalousie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the puff pastry may become soggy upon thawing.
By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy your leftover jalousie while maintaining its flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of the chicken and cheese jalousie recipe. Note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-550 |
| Total Fat | 30-40g |
| Saturated Fat | 15-20g |
| Cholesterol | 100-120mg |
| Sodium | 500-700mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20-30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2g |
| Sugars | 2-4g |
| Protein | 20-30g |
This nutritional information can help you make informed decisions about incorporating the chicken and cheese jalousie recipe into your diet. It’s a delicious treat to enjoy in moderation.
Health Benefits
While the chicken and cheese jalousie recipe is undoubtedly a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits. Chicken is a good source of lean protein. Cheese provides calcium and other minerals.
However, it’s essential to consider the high fat content, particularly saturated fat, from the puff pastry and cheese. Therefore, enjoy this dish in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Balancing the intake of chicken and cheese jalousie with nutritious options ensures a more comprehensive and health-conscious approach to dining.
Chicken and Cheese Jalousie: A Delicious Delight
This chicken and cheese jalousie recipe is a culinary delight that combines the savory goodness of chicken and cheese with the flaky perfection of puff pastry. Its elegant presentation and delicious flavors make it a standout dish for any occasion.
The combination of chicken and cheese within a flaky crust creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Thus, each bite offers a perfect balance of savory and satisfying. The dish is further enhanced by the optional sprinkling of everything bagel seasoning. Therefore, the chicken and cheese jalousie is a treat for the senses.
FAQs about chicken and cheese jalousie recipe
Can I make this chicken and cheese jalousie recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the jalousie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it is best to bake it just before serving to ensure the puff pastry is flaky and the filling is warm and melty.
Can I use different types of cheese in this chicken and cheese jalousie recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Pepper Jack to customize the flavor to your liking.
Is it possible to make this chicken and cheese jalousie recipe with homemade puff pastry?
Yes, you can certainly use homemade puff pastry for this recipe. It will add an extra layer of richness and flavor to the jalousie, although store-bought puff pastry works well for convenience.
Your Culinary Masterpiece
In summary, the chicken and cheese jalousie recipe is a versatile and impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its flaky crust, savory filling, and elegant presentation, it’s perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create a culinary masterpiece that will delight your family and friends.
Now that you have the ultimate guide to making a chicken and cheese jalousie, it’s time to try it out! Impress your loved ones with this stunning and delicious dish. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and experiences. Happy baking!
Chicken and Cheese Jalousie
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Large Bowl
- Pizza Cutter or Knife
- Fork
Ingredients
Pastry
- 2 sheets Puff Pastry (14.1 oz each), thawed
Filling
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast cooked and shredded
- 8 oz Cream Cheese softened
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup Green Onions chopped
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1/2 tsp Salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper or to taste
Egg Wash
- 1 Egg beaten
- Everything Bagel Seasoning for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Ensure the puff pastry is thawed but still cold.
- Making the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Assembling the Jalousie: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one sheet of puff pastry into a 12×12 inch square. Carefully transfer the pastry to the prepared baking sheet. Spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Roll out the second sheet of puff pastry into a 12×12 inch square. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips. Carefully arrange the strips over the filling in a lattice pattern.
- Press the edges of the lattice strips onto the bottom layer of pastry to seal. Trim any excess pastry from the edges. Crimp the edges with a fork to create a decorative border.
- Baking the Jalousie: Brush the entire surface of the jalousie with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the jalousie cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before slicing and serving.