This Spanish-style chicken recipe, taught to me by a friend, makes for an amazing dinner that’s both flavorful and elegant. The combination of seasoned chicken, bacon, and mozzarella cheese wrapped in puff pastry creates a delightful dish that is sure to impress. Follow these steps to make this delicious Spanish-style chicken dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 generous pinch of black pepper
For the Filling
- 1 medium onion, chopped into round slices
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 200 grams of sliced bacon
- 100 grams of grated mozzarella cheese
- 300 grams of puff pastry sheet
- 1 beaten egg yolk (for brushing)
For Cooking
- Olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Method
Preparing the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: On a large plate, combine 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a generous pinch of black pepper. Rub the spices into the two chicken breasts until they are well coated. Set the seasoned chicken aside.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet over low heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and stir-fry until slightly wilted. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Add the crushed garlic clove and continue to stir-fry until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In another large skillet over medium-low heat, add another drizzle of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and let them fry until both sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. This should take about 5-6 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Assembling the Puff Pastry
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the 300-gram puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. Ensure it is large enough to wrap around the filling completely.
- Add the Bacon and Onion: Lay 200 grams of sliced bacon over the puff pastry sheet. Spread the cooked onions and garlic evenly over the bacon.
- Add the Chicken and Cheese: Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the onions. Sprinkle 100 grams of grated mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
- Wrap the Pastry: Carefully fold the puff pastry over the filling, sealing the edges to enclose the chicken, bacon, onions, and cheese completely. Transfer the wrapped pastry to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush with Egg Yolk: Brush the beaten egg yolk evenly over the top of the puff pastry. This will give it a beautiful golden color when baked.
Baking the Dish
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- Serve Hot: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Slice the pastry and serve hot.
Tips and Variations
- Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the spice rub for a spicier version of this dish.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try using other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Add some sautéed bell peppers or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Sauce Pairing: Serve with a side of marinara or a creamy garlic sauce for dipping.
Nutritional Information
This dish is rich in protein from the chicken and bacon and provides a good amount of calcium from the cheese. The puff pastry adds a delightful crunch and richness to the dish. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the pastry soggy.
This Spanish-style chicken in puff pastry is a flavorful and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, melty cheese, and flaky puff pastry creates a mouthwatering meal that is sure to be a hit. Share this recipe with your friends and family, and enjoy the compliments as they savor every bite.
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet dinner with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of this Spanish-style chicken, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
