We’ve always been fans of the Chicken Friand Recipe, a delightful French-inspired pastry that’s both comforting and elegant. Originating from classic baking traditions, it features tender chicken wrapped in a flaky crust, making it a versatile star for any meal.
It’s no wonder this dish has won hearts worldwide—it’s simple yet sophisticated, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. We’ll guide you through creating your own version that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
In our Chicken Friand recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend to create a savory, flaky pastry packed with tender chicken flavors. We order these as they appear in the preparation process, ensuring each one contributes to the dish’s elegant taste and texture.
- Chicken: 500 grams boneless chicken breast, diced into 1-inch pieces for even cooking in the filling.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, finely chopped to add a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced to infuse aromatic depth into the mixture.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted, melted for both sautéing and enriching the pastry dough.
- Puff Pastry: 2 sheets store-bought or homemade, rolled out to ¼-inch thickness for the crisp outer layer.
- Flour: 2 tablespoons all-purpose, used to thicken the sauce and prevent sticking.
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup, added for a creamy sauce that binds the filling together.
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons chopped thyme and parsley, stirred in for a burst of fresh, earthy notes.
- Egg: 1 large, beaten for an egg wash that gives the pastry its golden, shiny finish.
- Salt and Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, seasoned to taste for balancing the overall flavors.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for the Chicken Friand, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools and equipment to prepare this savory, flaky pastry effortlessly. Having the right items on hand ensures smooth preparation and helps achieve that perfect golden crust and tender filling.
To make our Chicken Friand recipe, we recommend the following tools and equipment. We’ve organized them by category for clarity, emphasizing those critical for baking and assembly to maintain the dish’s elegant texture and flavor.
- Cutting and Prep Tools:
- A cutting board and sharp knife: Essential for dicing the chicken breast and chopping onions and garlic precisely, ensuring even cooking and a harmonious blend in the filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Vital for accurate measurements of ingredients like flour, cream, and seasonings, which contribute to the recipe’s consistent results.
- Cooking and Mixing Tools:
- A skillet or frying pan (non-stick preferred): Ideal for sautéing the chicken mixture over medium heat, allowing us to develop rich flavors without sticking.
- Mixing bowls (at least two sizes): We use these to combine ingredients like herbs and cream, making it easy to prepare the filling without cross-contamination.
- Baking Tools:
- A rolling pin: Crucial for rolling out the puff pastry to the perfect thickness, helping us create that signature flaky crust that elevates our Chicken Friand.
- A baking sheet or tray: This supports the friands during baking, ensuring even heat distribution for a uniformly golden finish.
- A pastry brush: Specifically for applying the beaten egg wash, which gives the pastry its appealing shine and helps seal in moisture.
- Oven and Accessories:
- A standard oven preheated to 400°F: Our go-to for baking the friands to perfection, transforming the pastry into a crispy delight.
- A spatula or wooden spoon: Handy for stirring and transferring mixtures, preventing any damage to delicate ingredients during assembly.
By using these tools, we can streamline the process and focus on the sensory joys of our Chicken Friand— from the aroma of herbs filling the kitchen to the satisfying crunch of the baked crust. Always prioritize safety and quality in your selections to enhance your cooking experience.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing our delicious Chicken Friand step by step, ensuring each phase builds on the fresh ingredients and tools we’ve outlined to create a savory, flaky pastry that’s perfect for any occasion.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep all ingredients in the order they’ll be used to streamline our process. Start by dicing 1 pound of boneless chicken breast into small, even pieces for quick cooking and tender texture. Next, finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 cloves of garlic to release their aromatic flavors that will enhance the filling’s depth.
- For the herbs, roughly chop 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley and thyme to add a vibrant, earthy note.
- Measure out 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream for the sauce base.
- Thaw 1 sheet of puff pastry if frozen, and beat 1 egg with a splash of water to create an egg wash that gives the friands a golden, shiny crust.
This preparation ensures everything is ready, allowing us to focus on building layers of flavor and texture.
Make the Filling
We create the hearty filling that forms the heart of our Chicken Friand, combining ingredients into a creamy, savory mixture bursting with taste. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until they turn translucent and release a fragrant, irresistible aroma.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and lightly browned for a juicy yet firm bite.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a roux, then gradually pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while whisking to create a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
- Fold in the chopped fresh herbs and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld into a rich, herbaceous filling that promises a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Assemble the Friands
With the filling ready, we assemble our friands by wrapping the savory mixture in flaky puff pastry, creating elegant pockets that lock in moisture and flavor. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness, then cut it into 4-6 equal squares for uniform baking.
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of the warm chicken filling in the center of each square, ensuring not to overfill to allow for proper sealing.
- Fold the pastry corners over the filling to form a neat parcel, pressing the edges firmly with a fork to seal and prevent any leaks during baking, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.
- Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash for a glossy finish that enhances both appearance and texture, turning each friand into an inviting, professional-looking treat.
Bake the Friands
Finally, we bake our assembled friands to achieve a perfectly crisp, golden crust that envelops the tender filling, transforming simple ingredients into an elegant dish. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for even heat distribution and easy cleanup.
- Arrange the friands on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow air circulation for uniform crisping.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the pastry puffs up and turns a deep golden brown, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of baked herbs and butter.
- Let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes before serving, ensuring the filling sets for the ideal balance of flaky layers and succulent chicken.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our Chicken Friand preparation and fit it into busy schedules, we can make key components ahead of time without compromising the dish’s flaky texture and savory flavors. This approach allows us to enjoy fresh-baked friands with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Preparing the Filling in Advance
We recommend making the chicken filling up to 2 days ahead. Begin by following the initial steps from our recipe: sauté the onions and garlic in unsalted butter until golden and fragrant, then add the diced chicken breast and cook until no longer pink. Stir in the all-purpose flour and heavy cream to create a creamy sauce, and fold in the fresh herbs for that burst of earthy aroma. Once cooled completely, transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it. This method preserves the succulent texture of the chicken and the rich creaminess, ensuring flavors meld beautifully over time.
Assembling the Friands Ahead
For even greater convenience, we can assemble the full friands up to 24 hours in advance. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and cut it into squares or rectangles as directed. Spoon the prepared filling onto the center of each piece, then fold and seal the edges tightly to prevent leakage during baking. Arrange the assembled friands on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush them with the beaten egg wash for that glossy finish, and cover the sheet loosely with plastic wrap before refrigerating.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the Chicken Friand‘s appeal. If we’ve assembled the friands ahead, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked friands on the baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 1 month this way.
When ready to bake, we simply preheat the oven as per the recipe. If baking from the refrigerator, add 2-3 minutes to the baking time for even golden browning. For frozen friands, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking to ensure the pastry achieves its signature flaky layers and the filling remains moist and flavorful. Always let the baked friands cool for a few minutes post-oven to enhance their irresistible warmth and aroma.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this Chicken Friand recipe with you and hope it’s become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s a simple way to bring a touch of elegance to everyday meals while impressing your loved ones.
Remember we’re here to inspire your cooking adventures so don’t hesitate to tweak it and make it your own. Let’s savor those flaky bites and create memorable moments around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chicken Friand?
A Chicken Friand is a French-inspired pastry featuring tender chicken in a flaky crust, blending comfort and elegance. It’s perfect for casual meals or impressing guests, offering a savory, creamy filling wrapped in puff pastry.
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Friand?
Key ingredients include diced boneless chicken breast, chopped onion, minced garlic, unsalted butter, puff pastry, all-purpose flour, heavy cream, fresh herbs, a beaten egg for wash, and salt and pepper. Use fresh, high-quality items for the best flavor and texture.
What tools are required to make Chicken Friand?
You’ll need a cutting board and sharp knife for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a skillet for sautéing, a rolling pin for pastry, and a baking sheet for cooking. These tools ensure efficient preparation and even baking.
How do I prepare Chicken Friand step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: dice chicken, chop onions and garlic, and prepare herbs. Sauté onions and garlic, cook chicken, make a creamy sauce with flour and cream, then fold in herbs. Assemble by wrapping filling in puff pastry, seal, brush with egg wash, and bake at the recommended temperature until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Can I make Chicken Friand ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the chicken filling up to 2 days in advance for enhanced flavors. Assemble friands up to 24 hours ahead and store in the fridge, or freeze for longer. This makes it easy for busy schedules while maintaining the flaky texture.
How should I store and reheat Chicken Friand?
Store assembled friands in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer. To reheat, bake from frozen or thawed until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve the flaky crust; let them cool briefly after reheating for the best taste.