Every time I pull these Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs out of the oven, I’m greeted by a symphony of enticing aromas that draw everyone into the kitchen. The golden, flaky pastry surrounds a creamy, savory filling that perfectly balances the rich cream cheese and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or an unexpected gathering, these delightful bites can be whipped up in just 35 minutes, making them the ultimate last-minute appetizer.
I stumbled upon this crowd-pleaser during a week where takeout felt all too ordinary. Inspired by my love for fresh ingredients and homemade flavor, I crafted these puffs to satisfy my cravings while impressing my guests. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily play with flavors, substituting herbs to fit any palate. Now, let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your entertaining repertoire!
Why are Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs a Must-Try?
Delightful Aroma: From the moment they hit the oven, the rich scent of sun-dried tomatoes and baked pastry fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Quick Prep: Ready in just 35 minutes, these puffs are the answer to last-minute entertaining or a simple afternoon snack.
Customizable: With options for different herbs and fillings, you can make them unique every time!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves a flaky pastry, and these irresistible bites are sure to impress family and friends.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve them solo, with a fresh salad, or as part of a cheese platter—the possibilities are endless!
These Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs are perfect for any occasion, and once you make them, you’ll wonder how you ever entertained without them!
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs Ingredients
For the Filling
• Puff Pastry – Provides the flaky and buttery texture; use chilled or thawed frozen pastry for best results.
• Cream Cheese – Adds richness and a creamy mouthfeel; consider substituting with ricotta for a lighter option.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Oil – Introduces tangy and savory flavor, essential for your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs; roasted red peppers can be used as an alternative.
• Oil (from Sun-Dried Tomatoes) – Enhances flavor and smoothness of the filling; olive oil is a great substitute.
• Fresh Parsley – Offers freshness and color; swap with cilantro or chives if desired.
• Celery Salt – Optional seasoning; regular salt and pepper can be used in a pinch.
• Cooked Chicken (diced) – Provides protein and substance; rotisserie chicken simplifies prep.
For the Glaze and Garnish
• Egg (beaten) – This egg wash gives the pastry a beautiful golden color; omit if you’re not using sesame seeds.
• Black Sesame Seeds – Adds garnish and texture; chia or poppy seeds can be used instead.
These Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs are not only delicious but also packed with flavor and potential!
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This setup will help your puffs achieve that perfect golden crisper.
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Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface if necessary, then cut it into small rectangles, aiming for about 45 pieces. The thinner you roll it, the flakier the puffs will be!
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Arrange the pastry pieces on the baking sheet, giving them some space between each. Brush with beaten egg and generously sprinkle with sesame seeds for that beautiful, appetizing finish.
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Bake for 10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Watch them closely; you want that perfect flaky texture!
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Blend the filling by placing cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oil, parsley, and celery salt into a food processor. Mix until smooth and creamy, then gently fold in the diced chicken for added heartiness.
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Cool the baked puffs for a few minutes, then cut them in half and fill each with the chicken mixture. Press gently to close, ensuring none of that delicious filling escapes!
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Serve immediately for the best flavor or refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy these delights. They make a perfect appetizer or snack at any gathering!
Optional: Serve with a side of yogurt dip for an extra flavor kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs
Fridge: Store leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked puffs by arranging them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Reheating: To reheat, warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are heated through for the best taste and texture.
Make-Ahead: If preparing in advance, consider making the filling ahead of time and storing it separately. Fill the puffs just before baking to achieve optimal flakiness.
What to Serve with Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs?
Create the perfect dining experience that will have everyone craving more with these delightful puffs as your centerpiece.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette balances the creamy filling, enhancing the overall meal.
- Cheese Board: Pair with a variety of cheeses, fruits, and nuts for an elegant platter that complements the savory flavors of the puffs.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a hearty, earthy flavor, making the meal more substantial and satisfying.
- Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A cool, herby yogurt dip offers a refreshing contrast to the warm puffs, enhancing their flavors beautifully.
- Sparkling White Wine: Bubbles and acidity in sparkling wine cut through the richness of the puffs, providing a delightful pairing for your guests.
- Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce: This savory sauce not only adds immense flavor but also encourages everyone to dive right into the experience.
- Fruit Compote: A sweet and tangy fruit compote creates an unexpected balance to the delicious savoriness, making every bite intriguing.
- Mini Quiche: Offering a variety of mini quiches alongside provides additional flavor profiles, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Lightly Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances the meal’s presentations and brings a fresh crunch.
- Sparkling Citrus Mocktail: A zesty, non-alcoholic drink complements the richness while refreshing your taste buds with each puff.
Expert Tips for Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs
- Even Rolling: Ensure your puff pastry is rolled out evenly to prevent uneven baking and achieve that perfect flakiness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Using high-quality sun-dried tomatoes in oil enhances the flavor; opt for fresh herbs to invigorate your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs.
- Egg Wash Generosity: Apply a generous layer of beaten egg wash before baking; this step yields a golden, appetizing appearance that’s hard to resist.
- Serve Warm: For the best taste, serve these puffs warm right after filling them; they may lose some flakiness when refrigerated too long.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble your puffs in advance but fill them just before serving to keep the pastry crispy and fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by blending the cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and cooked chicken together—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. While it’s best to assemble the puffs the day you plan to serve them to keep that flaky texture, you can roll out and cut the puff pastry up to 24 hours ahead. Simply refrigerate the cut pieces, wrapped in plastic, until you’re ready to bake. To finish, just reheat the puffs after filling them, and you’ll have restaurant-quality appetizers with minimal effort!
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs Variations
Customize your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs to suit your taste and dietary needs with these fun twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese or hummus for a tasty, plant-based option. You won’t lose the creamy texture!
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Herb Swaps: Replace parsley with fresh basil or dill to add unique flavors. This simple change can transport the dish to an entirely new culinary experience.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the filling for added nutrition and a delicious earthiness. These vegetables will enhance the texture and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a zesty kick. This swap is perfect for those who love a little heat in their bites!
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Nutty Addition: Mix in some toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the filling. This extra texture takes your puffs to the next level.
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Protein Variety: Experiment with shredded turkey or diced tofu instead of chicken for a different protein source. You can create entirely new flavor profiles while keeping it hearty.
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Sweet Twist: Try using sun-dried figs or cranberries instead of tomatoes for a sweet-savory version. Paired with a cream cheese base, these will create a surprisingly delightful contrast.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry to accommodate dietary restrictions while still enjoying the rich flavors of these puffs. Everyone deserves a delicious appetizer!
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs Recipe FAQs
What type of puff pastry should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using chilled or thawed frozen puff pastry for the best flaky texture. You can find it in the freezer section of most grocery stores. If it’s not already rolled out, ensure you roll it evenly to avoid uneven baking.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, I suggest reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave.
Can I freeze these puffs, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs! To do this, prepare the unbaked puffs on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time to ensure they’re golden and delicious.
What if the puff pastry is puffing unevenly?
If you notice that your pastry isn’t puffing evenly, it may be due to uneven rolling. I suggest rolling the pastry to about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring that all pieces are uniform. Additionally, avoid crowding them on the baking sheet to allow proper airflow for an even bake.
Are these puffs suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
While these Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs contain cream cheese and chicken, you can adapt the recipe to cater to various dietary needs. Consider using dairy-free cream cheese for a lactose-free option or using a plant-based chicken substitute to make them vegetarian. Always check for allergies with your guests if you’re unsure!
Can I make these puffs ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it stored in the fridge. Just be sure to assemble and bake the puffs on the day of serving to keep that delightful flakiness intact. If you prefer, you can also shape the puffs and store them in the fridge briefly before baking; just remember to add a few minutes to the baking time!
Savory Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Puffs for Easy Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface if necessary, then cut it into small rectangles, aiming for about 45 pieces.
- Arrange the pastry pieces on the baking sheet, giving space between each. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.
- Blend the filling by placing cream cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, oil, parsley, and celery salt into a food processor. Mix until smooth and creamy, then fold in the diced chicken.
- Cool the baked puffs for a few minutes, then cut them in half and fill each with the chicken mixture.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.