North Carolina Chicken Pastry Recipe

Are you craving a comforting and delicious meal that will transport you to the heart of North Carolina? Look no further than this mouthwatering North Carolina Chicken Pastry recipe.

Picture tender chunks of chicken, simmered in a savory broth, and enveloped in a flaky, golden pastry.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be savoring every bite of this Southern classic.

Get ready to experience the freedom of flavor with every forkful.

Let’s get cooking!

Key Takeaways

• Customization and experimentation with flavors is encouraged in the North Carolina Chicken Pastry recipe.
• Using fresh ingredients enhances the taste, aroma, and health benefits of the dish.
• Properly preparing the chicken by roasting, grilling, or poaching, and seasoning it before cooking enhances the flavor and texture.
• The broth for the chicken pastry should be made with a combination of water and chicken stock, along with aromatic vegetables and herbs, and can be customized with different flavors and ingredients.

North Carolina Chicken Pastry Recipe

Recipe by Heather SmithCourse: MainCuisine: Southern AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

1

hour 

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Embrace the charm of Southern cuisine with our North Carolina Chicken Pastry recipe. This beloved dish is the embodiment of comfort food. Picture tender chunks of chicken, enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, and nestled within a flaky, golden pastry. It's a taste of the South that warms your heart and feeds your soul. North Carolina Chicken Pastry is a timeless classic, a piece of Southern history passed down through generations. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe offers a taste of nostalgia and a warm embrace. Join us as we explore the essence of Southern cooking and uncover the secrets behind this heartwarming dish.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked chicken, diced

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots

• 1/2 cup butter

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup chopped onion

• 2 refrigerated pie crusts

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Preheat the Oven:
  Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Prepare the Filling:
  In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.
  Add 1/2 cup of chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  Stir in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
• Create the Sauce:
  Gradually add 2 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of whole milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
• Add Chicken and Vegetables:
  Stir in 4 cups of cooked, diced chicken and 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots.
  Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Fill the Pastry:
  Line a pie dish with one of the refrigerated pie crusts.
  Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the crust
• Cover and Bake:
  Place the second pie crust on top and crimp the edges to seal.
  Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
• Serve:
  Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
  Slice and serve your North Carolina Chicken Pastry, piping hot and delicious.

Ingredients

To begin making the North Carolina Chicken Pastry recipe, gather all of the necessary ingredients.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. There are several cooking variations for North Carolina Chicken Pastry, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you prefer a traditional approach or want to experiment with bold flavors, this recipe can accommodate your desires.

One key aspect of this recipe is using fresh ingredients. Not only do they enhance the taste and aroma, but they also offer numerous health benefits. Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the use of high-quality chicken ensures a lean and protein-rich dish. By incorporating fresh ingredients, you can savor a delicious meal while nourishing your body with wholesome goodness.

Preparing the Chicken

To prepare the chicken for the North Carolina Chicken Pastry recipe, you’ll need to start by selecting a high-quality, fresh chicken. This is essential for achieving the best flavor and texture in your dish.

Once you have your chicken, there are a few different ways you can cook it to perfection.

One option is to roast the chicken in the oven. This method allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a crispy skin. Simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices, then place it in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Another option is to grill the chicken. This imparts a smoky flavor and gives the chicken a nice char. Marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours, then grill it over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Lastly, you can also poach the chicken. This method is great for keeping the chicken moist and tender. Simply place the chicken in a pot of simmering water or chicken broth, along with some aromatics like onion, garlic, and herbs. Let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

No matter which cooking method you choose, be sure to properly season the chicken before cooking. This will enhance the flavor and make your North Carolina Chicken Pastry even more delicious.

Making the Broth

To make the broth for your North Carolina Chicken Pastry, you’ll need to simmer the chicken in a flavorful liquid. Here are some tips for achieving a delicious and aromatic broth:

1. Use a combination of water and chicken stock: This will provide a rich and savory base for your broth.

2. Add aromatic vegetables and herbs: Onions, carrots, celery, and fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaves will infuse the broth with fragrance and depth of flavor.

3. Season generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. Seasoning the broth well will enhance the overall taste of your chicken pastry.

When it comes to variations of chicken pastry broths from different regions, each area has its own unique twist. For example, in Louisiana, they might add Cajun spices and a splash of hot sauce to give the broth a spicy kick. In Pennsylvania Dutch country, they often use chicken broth combined with milk to create a creamy and comforting broth.

Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to find your favorite variation.

Assembling the Pastry

Now that you have prepared the flavorful broth, it’s time to assemble the North Carolina Chicken Pastry.

Start by rolling the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick. You want it to be thin enough to create a delicate, flaky crust but not too thin that it tears when you handle it.

Once the dough is rolled out, cut it into squares or circles, depending on your preference.

Next, take a generous spoonful of the filling and place it in the center of each piece of dough. Be careful not to overfill, as it may cause the pastry to burst open during baking.

Gently fold the dough over the filling, forming a pocket, and press the edges together to seal.

Now, transition into the next section to learn about baking and serving your delicious North Carolina Chicken Pastry.

Baking and Serving

Once you have assembled your North Carolina Chicken Pastry, bake it in the oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. Set the oven to a baking temperature of 375°F (190°C) to ensure a perfectly cooked pastry.

As you wait for it to bake, imagine the enticing aroma filling your kitchen, making everyone’s mouth water in anticipation.

When the pastry is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Now it’s time to present your masterpiece! Here are three presentation ideas to impress your guests:

1) Cut the pastry into individual servings and arrange them on a platter, garnishing with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

2) Serve the pastry whole on a beautiful serving tray, allowing your guests to admire its golden crust before cutting into it.

3) Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy the freedom to savor every delicious bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Broth Instead of Making My Own?

You can definitely use store-bought broth instead of making your own in the chicken pastry recipe. However, be aware that the taste may differ from homemade broth, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.

How Long Does It Take to Make the Chicken Pastry Recipe From Start to Finish?

To make the chicken pastry recipe, it takes approximately 2 hours from start to finish. The preparation time is around 30 minutes, while the cooking time is about 1.5 hours.

Can I Make the Pastry Dough in Advance and Refrigerate It Overnight?

Yes, you can make the pastry dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the dough to rest and develop flavor. When you’re ready to make the chicken pastry, simply roll out the chilled dough and proceed with the recipe.

Are There Any Variations or Substitutions I Can Make to the Recipe?

You can definitely add your own twist to the North Carolina Chicken Pastry Recipe. Try using different spices, adding vegetables, or even substituting the chicken with another protein. Get creative and make it your own!

Can I Freeze the Chicken Pastry for Later Use?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken pastry for later use. To reheat, bake at 350°F until heated through. Use airtight containers for storage to prevent freezer burn. Check out other freezer-friendly pastry recipes for more options.

Conclusion

In the comforting embrace of North Carolina chicken pastry, a symphony of flavors dances on your taste buds.

The tender chicken, lovingly simmered in a rich broth, nestles amidst the flaky layers of pastry, creating a harmonious union of textures.

As you take a bite, the warm embrace of nostalgia takes hold, transporting you to a simpler time, where family and tradition were cherished.

So gather your loved ones, savor this delectable dish, and let it nourish not just your body, but your soul.

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